yfcKlUUlUilw 'LUDi^i^ Ki k m .n n y CAN FRA^4C»SCO HISTORY ROOW MAIN LIBRARY SAN FRANCISCO PUBLIC LIBRARY 3 1223 90153 4256 Bq^MQ P€.R(opiCAt^ 630.6 CA2S2 3 ^933o2 j NOT TO BE TAKEN FROM THE LIBRARY Form 3427 g^QDICAL DEPARTOIECT: Digitized by tine Internet Arciiive in 2010 witin funding from San Francisco Public Library http://www.archive.org/details/californiahortic35187375step THE /s% California Horticulturist AND FLORAL MAGAZINE. C. STEPHENS, Editor. VOLXJJME III. 18 7 3. PUBLISHED BY JOHN H. CARMANY & CO. No. 409 Washington Street, opposite the Post Office, SAN FRANCISCO, CAL. INDEX. PAGE. A Absorption of Moisture by Leaves 1G7 Adiantums 3G5 Agapauthiis 201 Agreements, Put them in Writing 2G4 Agricultural Show 356 Ailunthus, Perfume of 338 Alfalfa as Hog-feed 257 Alfalfa for Cattle 234 Alfalfa Hay, How to Cure it 305 Algfe, Plain Directions for Collection of. . . 14 Althcea frutex 162 Amaryllis 300, 361 American Pomological Society 179 American Pomological Society 212 American Plants in Great Britain 85 American Steam-plows 206 Ammonia for Verbenas 270 Ancient Farms 106 Ancient Timber 161 Announcement for 1874 375 Annuals 72 Ants' Nests in Gardens 260 Aphides, or Green Fly 196 Aplectum, Flowering of 364 Apocynum as a Fibre-plant 282 Apples in Plaster 224 Apple-worm in California 100 Acpiarium 247 Arbutus, or Strawberry-tree . 75 Arranging Flowers in Beds 207 Asparagus and Manure 371 Asparagus, Medical Value of 158 Auricula, (Primula auricula) 136 Australian Method of Cooling Water 296 Azaleas and Ehododendrons 153 B Balloon Vine 301 Banana Culture 146 Banana, The 36 Burn-yard Manure, Value of. 195 Bay District Horticviltural Society, Report of Secretary . . 376 Bay District Horticultural Society, Spring Exhibition .' 180 Bay District Horticultural Society, Third Annual Exhibition 340 Begonia 347 Benzoin 239 Boracic Acid, Preserving Action of 100 PAGE. Botanical and Zoological Farms 77 Blood Globules 191 Books, Notices of 25, 60, 122 Boufiuet, John Muir's Idea of 248 Bouquets in Paris 238 Bulb Culture in Holland 100 Cabbage-worms 159 California Chestnuts 187, 209 California Ferns 359 California Flower Season 235 California Pears, a Bunch of 338 California Seedling Pears 277 California Shad 31 California Wild Flowers, (Illustrated) 167 Camellia Culture; Use of Lime Water. .... 100 Camellia Japonica, Cultivation of 175 Campanula turbinata elegans 355 Camphor 274 Camphor-wood 86 Caoutchouc, or India-rubber 239 Carnations, Rooting Cuttings of 355 Catalogues, etc. 25, 60, 90, 123, 155, 249, 317 378 Centennial Commission U. S., Address by. 22 Charcoal as a Purifier 36 Charcoal on Flowers 220 Cherry-trees 185 Chiccory 221 Choice Grapes; Cultivation of under Glass, 153 Cinchona Cultivation 138 Cinchona in Bengal 76 Cinchona Tree 185 Cinchona Tree 340 Cinnamon 163 Cissus discolor 292 Cocksipur Thorn 268 Coffee 225 Coffee-making 224 Colletia Bictonensis 23 Colorado Desert as an Inland Sea 45 Compost Heaps 222 Cork Oak 96 Corn, Prolific Joint 337 Correspondence 30, 66, 99, 128, 286 Cranberry Culture 226 Crops 38 Cut-flowers, Arrangement of 44, 67 Cucumber, Hints about Growing 309 Cultivating Flowers 74 Cure for Kheumatism 189 Cut-flowers, to Freshen 332 INDEX. Cnttingfi, How I Strike them 25G Cuttiiiys, to Manage 159 D Dcciduons Flowering Shrubs, Pruning of. . 10 Deodorizer, a Sini])le 11)5 Desirable IMants of lleceut Introduction. . '230 Diudem Pinks G7 Discoveries, llecent French, in Horticulture 49 Dried Fruit, The Aldeu Process 283 E Eastern Quail 19 Editorial Gleanings, 31, GG, 99, 129, 159, 189 220, 250, 288, 323, 352. Editorial Portfolio, 21, 55, 87, 119, 151, 178, 215 El EspirJtu Santo 298 Ericas, Cultivation of 112 Eyes in Deep-sea Creatures 290 Exchange Table, Our. .24, 59, 90, 122. 318, 379 247, 280, 3U9, 340. Faded Flowers, To Eestoro 13 Fairs and Exhibitions. ..59, 89, 121, 151, 250 282, 309, 340. Farm, the Largest in England 258 Favors Received, 25, 61, 91, 154, 186, 249, 317 344, 379. FecuiKlity of Fishes 323 Female Flowers, Double Fertilization of. . . 288 Ferns and Fern Culture 17 Fern Culture ] G5 Fern-pressing .^■^. . , ^ . , ,^ 279 Ficus repens ,.,, ^-.'.l-.X-vf.t- • • 290 Filberts 225 Filters and Filtering 286 Fish, Cultivation of in Ditches and Ponds, 337 Fish Culture 177 Fishes, Cross-breeding of G8 Fishing, Influence of on Character 114 Flavoring with Ltsaves 174 Flax, Antiquity of 324 Flux-seed, New Use for 211 Flora of California 124 Floral and Vegetable Essences for Perfume, 195 Floral Curiosity G7 Floral Prizes for the Poor 354 Flowering Bulbs, Our Favorite 1 Flowers in Beds, Arrangement of 20 Flower Borders, Preparation of 107 Flowers, Preserving in Alcohol 124 Flowers, Season of ]29 Floriculture 131, 2li2 Flower Talk 105 Flower-talk — Honeysuckles, (Poetry) 149 Flowers and the Flower-trade IGl Flowering Plants, Old 53 Flowering Shrubs, Choice, for the Garden, 37 Flowering Shrubs 3G8 Flowers, Odors of 2G9 Foliage Plants 372 Forest Planting a Source of Wealth 50 Forests, The Way they Go 132 I'AGK. Forest Trees 221 Forest Extermination, llesult of 223 Forest Leaves, Value of 225 Forest-tree Culture 235 Forests and Rain-fall 240 Forests and Freshets 306 Forests, Indian and German 3G9 French Idea, a Good one 292 Frnit, Pules for Preserving of 34 Fniit, Thinning of 35 Fruits, Drying of 79 Fruit-growing, Alden Process 199 Fruit in our Rooms 242 Fruit-drying Process, a New One 271 Fruit Trees at Planting Time 328 Fruit, Rotting of 339 Funeral Flowers in New York 35 Fnchsia, How it Acquired Celebrity 66 Fuchsias from Seed 163 c Gamboge 239 Garden, The Parlor, (Illustrated) 374 Garden, How to Make 149 Garden Adornments 279 Garden Stakes, To Preserve 260 Garrya elliptica 346 Geraniums 105 Gladiolus, How to Grow It 295 Glass Houses, Shade for 204 Glass, Substitute for 260 Golden Morning Glory, (Illustrated) 229 Grass, When to Cut It 323 Grafting Geraniums 65 Grafting Wax 226 Grain of Mustard, A. (Poetry) 46 Greenhouses, Simple Method of Warming, 130 Greenhouse Plants, Cultivation of 141 Green Fly, Snuff for 196 Grouping of Plants 283 Grouping Trees, etc r 301 Guano Islands 224 Gum Plants 239 Gunpowder for Tent Caterpillars 22 Gutta Percha 239 Gutta Percha Cement 299 H Hanging Baskets 293, 331 Hard and Soft Water 230 Hard Lime Floors 290 llardhaek 256 llazel, (Illustrated) 237 Heaths, Cultivation of 112 Hedges 172, 267 Hedges, Native 7 Honey-locust Hedge, How to Plant It, etc. 367 Horse-radish, To Get Tender 232 Horticulturist 21 Horticultural Meeting 33 H(jrticultural Spring Exhibition 151 Horticulture as a Profession for Ladies. . . 170 Horticulture, Discovery in 194 Hoteia (Spirita) Japonica 348 House Plants, Culture of 16, 197 How to Make a Garden 112 INDEX. Hyacinths, Troameut of, after Flowering . IIJO Hyacinths in Sponge H I Indian Wine 330 India-rubber 226 lulluouce of Forests on Climate 88 luseL-ts on House Plants 116 Insects in Gardens, to Exterminate 239 Insects in Orchards 246 Interesting News for Ladies 322 Irish Bogs 36 Irrigation 55, 272 Irrigation in the Great San Joaquin Valley, (Illustrated) 180 Ivy for Drawing-rooms 46 Jerseys,. The 258 Kangaroo Vine of Australia 331 Knots on Plum-trees 199 E. Landscape, Upon the Term "Natural" as Applied to 373 Landscape Gardening 278 Laughing Plant 190 Leaf, The, What it Does U6 Leaves, Importance of ,\[ 132 Leguminous Crops 131 Lilium Washingtonianum 124, 153 Lily of the Valley, (Convaliaria) .' 262 Lime, The 304 Madrona Tree, (Illustrated) 47 Magnolia grandiflora " ' " ' 282 Manure and Water 344 Medical Botany of California 33 Mesqiiite Gum * " ' 223 Meteorological Kecord, 161, 196, 228 260 324 356, 384. Mildew on Vines, Eemedy for 259 Milk under the Microscope . .' . ' . . " .' .' .' ' 291 Millet as a Forage Plant . . . . 242 Monarch of the West Strawberry! . . . . . . . 322 Moss, Clearing of from Fruit Trees 158 Mulching 246 Mushrooms, How to Cook 86 Mushrooms, Cultivation of '. '. '. ', ". '. . 2loj 244 N Native Hedges 7 Neglected Flowers ...'..'.'.."."'" 41 Neglected Source of Food 162 Neglected Plants 189 New Fodder . _ 260 New and Kare Plants, 25, ei, 91, 123. 148 155 251, 345. New Fruits and Vegetables, 27, 62, 93, 123, 346 Notice of Books 25, 60, 122,' 154 Nudibranchiates, Kemarks on (Illustrated) 208 o Obnoxious Postal Law, Kepeal of 22 Olive Oil, Testing of .'.".' 291 Olives, Old Avenue of, (Illustrated) .....'. 335 Olive Culture 117 Oranges, Collection of ,] 291 Orchid, The Best '.'.'.".'.. 291 Orchard Grass, Permanence of 252 Ornamental and Forest Trees for Fanii's'.*". 336 Osage Orange 194 228 Ostrich Feathers, '.".". . . .' 307 Outhne and Form of Certaiti Old Trees. '. '. 265 Oxalic Acid, Effect on Seed 228 P Pampas Grass 131 Pansy, New Style of [ 252 Peach Fungus 271 Pears, Kipening of 324 Peppermint, (Mentha Piperita) 365 Perfumes , 227 Petunias, Training of .' 328 Pine Leaves 291 Phosphorescent Light of Several Plants.' 12 Plant Trees 204 226 Plants, Odors of ... . .' 104 Plants, How to Water ' .' 252 Plants for Vas^s 43 Plants for Parlor or Conservatory 33 Plants for Hanging Baskets 334 Plants as Doctors ." 353 Plants in the Sleeping Koom .. 353 Plantain, The ' 355 Planting Slips ' " " ' 3^4 Poison Oak ' ' 3g Poisonous Plant 152 Pond Lily, The, (Poetry). . ...........'..'. 105 Pond Lilies, How to Grow 262 Potentilla fruticosa ' " 256 Primula Japonica, Germination of. .... . . . 100 Progressive Agriculture 43 Pruning Eoses 300 R Eain-fall in San Francisco, 1849 to 1873, (Illustrated) 104 Rain-fall of San Francisco 205, 248 Eamie and Jute ' 32 Eeport of Fruit Market, 29, 04, 97, 136 157 187, 218, 254, 284, 319, 349, 381. Eeports of Societies, 24, 58, 89, 121, 154, 179 Eefuse of Tanneries 191 Eose Hedge, English 140 Eoots as Manure 289 Eoots, Mode of Life of 372 Eose Insects 292 Eose, The, and its Legends 308 INDEX. PAGE. Koses ill Englfind 196 Roses, Good List of 238 Kosos, Among the 275 Enral Adornment 160 llural Homes of California, (Illustrated), 39 G9, 101, 147. Kough Cork for Rustic Work 99 Rust, To Prevent 177 Russian River, Changes in 35 s Sea Kale 308 Select Plants .^,.. . . .8, 83 Shade Trees for Nothing. . . ..j^^... ._f,. 131 Sheej) in Orchards '.^J. »,,.»... .. 35G Sheep in Vineyards ..f « ? • .j. •,♦* f 'i., • 192 Shellac 207 Siam, Fruits of 327 Silica and the Vegetable liingdom 118 Simple Floral Ornament 186 Siphon, Facts about 304 Skeleton Leaves, Preparation of 20 Sowing Seeds 233 Sponge on the San Diego Coast 166 Sponge Fishing 75 Sponges on Coast of Florida 171 State Agricultural Society's Fair 313 Straw for Feed, Value of 12 Struggle for Life among Plants 323 Sulphur to Kill Vermin 222 Summer-flowering Biilbs 133 Sumac, Venetian, (Rhus Cotinus) l^iO Sumac, and How it is Cured 333 Surface Soil, Management of 240 T Tamarind Tree, 151 Tea 345 Tea of Great Value 192 Thermometer, The 258 Timber Lands around Lake Tahoe 245 Timely Hint 68 Tomatoes Growing from Cuttings 194 Torrey, Dr. John, Botanist, Obituary of . . 110 Transportation of Milk 356 Tree Lemon Verbena 283 Tree Transplantation 160 Tree Seeds, Sowing of 214 Trees and Rain 214 Trees in Home Grounds 273 Trees, Make them Branch Low 195 Trees, to Protect 227 Trenching 245 Trout-breeding on Long Island 354 u United States Centennial Commission, Ad- dress by 22 PAGE. Y Variety in Our Flower Gardens, More of it, 325 Vase of Flowers for the Shah 339 Vases and Vase Plants 104 Vegetables and Salads, English View of. . . 52 Vegetable Perfumes, Efl'ect on Health 250 Vegetable Instincts 289 Verbenas, Culture of 94 Victorian Trees 109 Viola, Perpetual Yellow 211 Vine-disease Spreading in Portugal 244 Virtues of Borax 193 w Warm Water for Plants 32 Waste Places, Restoring of 132 Watering 42 Water Rights 129 Watermelon Vinegar 270 Water Cress 202 Weeds 203, 236, 263, 303 Weeds in Lawns 228 Weigela Rosea 120 Wheat Yield 248 Wild Rice in Minnesota 258 Wilder, Marshall Pinckney, f Illustrated) . . 296 Wines and Brandies, How to Age 223 Wisteria versus Flies 100 Wood, Durability of 153 Wood, Hardness of 34 Woods, Hard and Ornamental of Pacific Coast.. 81, 115 Woodward s Gardens, 24, 58, 120, 154, 185, 215 249. 317, 344, 378. Work for the Mouth, 27. 62, 95, 125, 155, 186 216, 253, 318, 347, 379. Xylophagous Marine Animals, Remarks on, (Illustrated) 142 Y Yew, Flowering in Winter 352 Young Trees, Butchering of 68 Yuccas as Ornamental Plants -. 305 Zanthoxylon frccineum for Hedges 94 Zinc Labels 193 THE AND FLORAL MAGAZINE. Vol. til JA:N^UAPvY, 1873. m. 1. OrE FAVOEITE FLOWEEIXG BULBS. \ BY F. A. MILLEK. Year by year our people sboAv a gro"U'- ing appreciation of iioweriug bulbs; and although the simple treatment needed by many of these favorites is as yet a mystery to some,, it is gratifying to see that others have met vrith marked suc- cess. I have seen in some collections (particularly in those of oui' lady ama- teur-gardeners), magnificent spikes of Hyacinths, beautiful clusters of Narcis- sus, Cyclamens covered with their nod- ding gems of white or purple, and Lilies, Amaryllis, Tulips, Eanunculus, Anemones, Gladiolus, Dielytras, Glox- inias, Tigridias, etc., all grown with re- markable success, and worthy objects for the admiration of their lady friends, who doubtless determine to follow the example by adding some of these gems to their own collections of plants, which without some of the varieties above named, are certainly very incomplete. But a few years since, our florists and seedsmen imj^orted flowering bulbs in large quantities, but could not find a ready sale for them, and the business of importing bulbs proved very un- profitable. This could not be expected to be otherwise, when it is taken into Vol. III.— -2. consideration that in a new and really undeveloped country, floriculture, as ■with all industries and p)ursuits, must go through the various stages of devel- opment. Flowers, although dearly loved by both old and young, as our surroundings will now testify, are yet considered by many of our wealthy men as very unnecessary luxuries, and are planted and paid for in many instances merely for apjDearance sake. It is not surprising that to such men a pine, a sunflower or a pojDpy seems more valu- able than a hyacinth, a snowdrop or a lily of the valley. It is the size of the thing, the show that it makes, the quan- tit}' for the small amount of money in- vested, that has hitherto been the j^rin- cipal consideration with our moneyed men. Thanks, however, to the ladies, who have gradually inaugurated a new order of things, and who have them- selves begun to realize the pleasures and delights to be derived from the care of plants, which offer new and varied delights through the different seasons of the year — in the garden, the con- servatory or in the window. Bulbous-rooted plants vaiy as much as all other plants in their time of flowering ; while some may be had in bloom during the winter months in the THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. conservatory or iu tlie window, others will not flower until late iu the autumn. The bulbs which maybe planted now, iu order to have them iu bloom during the earl}^ part of the coming year, are: Hyacinths, very full instructions for treatment of which were published in the Horticulturist in the Januar}- num- ber of 1871. Hyacinths may now be planted iu the open ground, and may be expected to floAver in March and April. Before planting, the soil should be manured and well worked over ; plant one and a half to two inches be- low the surface, and keep clean from weeds. Hyacinths are perfectly hardy. If planted iu pots, for the purpose of having them flower early, the bulbs should be planted so as to be just covered bj^ the soil. After planting, the pots should be set in a dark but moderately warm place, where roots will be formed before the leaves develop themselves. Under ordinarv circum- stances, from three to four weeks in a dark room will be sufficient. When bringing them into the light, place them iu a w^arm situation, and give a liberal supply of water, and iu thirty days after removing them into the light, they may be expected to flower. I pre- fer covering the pots, containing the bulbs, to the depth of at least six inches iu sand or leaf-mould, for about thirty days, in order to bring foliage and the flowerstocks to perfection at the same time. If Hyacinths are grown iu glasses, good strong bulbs should be selected, the water should be changed at least once a week, and it will prove advan- tageous to keep them in a dark and moderately warm room for at least two weeks. I prefer single Hyacinths to the double varieties ; their flowers will gen- erally come out more perfect, and the spikes fuller and more compact; the single varieties are also more fragrant. Tulips come into flower later than Hyacinths, and require more warmth and less moisture. They are not so well adapted for pot culture, although I have seen very fine specimens grown iu pots, under ordinary treatment ; the pots for Tulips should be of greater depth, and the bulb should be planted deeper, say, from three to four inches below the surface. They should be planted in a warm situation. Tulips do not require much manure, but the soil should be worked to greater de^ith even than for H^'acinths. The Cyclamen is one of my favorite bulbs, but it is only adapted for the conservatory or the window, where it will always be found blooming from November until May, and even later, after which time it should be allowed to rest, receiving only sufficient moisture to keep it from shrinking. During the time of flowering a liberal supply of water should be given, and partial shade is beneficial. One-third of the bulb should.be within the soil, and two-thirds of it above. I have a good number of varieties in bloom now, tl^^ best of which I have raised from seed, which was planted a year ago. The young bulbs are now producing an abundance of charming blossoms of various colors, highly valuable for fine bouquets and baskets of flowers. The Narcissus family is grown here without any difficulty, to great perfec- tion, both iu the house and iu the open ground ; some of them are highly per- fumed and are particularly attractive. If planted now, we may have them iu bloom in February in the house, and iu March iu the open ground. Some of the varieties are popularly known as Jonquils ; others as Daft'o- dils ; double and single, white and yel- THE CALIFOENIA HOETICrLTUEIST. low, some having wliite flowers with a red cup- like centre; they present a great diversity, and are both effective and pleasing in groups and as single plants, wherever they grow. Anemones are not as frequently met with as could he desired, yet they are a most intei^sting and valuable class of plants, and as easily cultivated in pots as in the ground. We may have them in flower here from March until July. The flowers are showj% and among the various colors we find blue, white, red, violet, rose, yellow and strij)ed, both double and single. The bulbs should now be phanted two inches deep in well prei)ared soil. The Eaj^unculus, also, is another valuable bulbous-rooted plant, which should be planted now, in order to have it bloom early. The treatment is the same as that required for the Anemone. There are many other bulbs which should not be withheld from our gar- dens and conservatories as early and charming flowerers, but I shall postpone their description to some future time. NATIVE HEDGES. ET DR. A. KELLOGG. D uring the twenty-four hours last past, two gentlemen of the press — no wise in communication — have inquired, ' ' What pative shrub would be most suitable for a hedge ? " Taking this timely query as i^erhaps indicative of a public desire for information, we pen our answer, given on the spur of the moment. The most feasible for general purj^oses ap- pears to be the White Thorn, (Cea- nothus incanus), for the following reas- ons: It is a stout, robust and rapid grower, very tough and of rigid resist- ance, somewhat thorny, as the popular name indicates ; bears cutting back to thicken, half hacking and weaving, and trims well ; is not apt to die out, singly or in patches, its vitality being most_ remarkable — cut even with the ground, it springs up speedily, and repairs it- self in two or three years, having such firm hold of roots upon the ground, as to require bonfires to exterminate them. Managed with ordinary care, it can be relied upon to turn both large and small cattle. In its native state, it grows from five to ten feet, and in some localities fifteen. This shrub has a wide range, from the coast, in this vicinity, south, to 7,000 or 8,000 feet on the Sierra Nevada Mountains; hence, well suited for very general use. For many years we have collected the seed for culture, as an ornamental shrub. A word or so of detailed de- scrijDtion may be allowed in addition : The stem or trunk is pale white, with greenish tinge ; smooth bark ; twigs numerous, almost as white as snow ; leaves crowded, egg-shaped, blunt, and slightly heart-shaped at the base, light green above, with a soft velvety bloom most pleasing to the eye ; whiter be- neath, thick and leathery; flowers white, in clustered bolls or heads, from thick spurs, lateral or terminal, but not re- markable for fragrance. The seed is soniewhat triangular, minutely worty and sub -three-horned; ripens from first to last of September. It has also a desir- able disposition to spread its branches, and naturally arches off and interlaces. This species, unlike many Geanothi, is never browsed on by cattle, and, there- fore, needs no protection in its incipient growth. Found on dry mountain knolls and in alluvial lands of creeks, etc. It would seem to suit well the river and valley lands. Should any choose a trim, erect grower, this evergreen might give place to others equally ornamental, but less useful. THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. SELECT PLANTS {Exdimve of Timber Trees) readili/ cligHh for Victorian Industrial Ctdture, icith Indications of their Native Countries and some of their Uses — an Enumeration offered BY BAEON FBED. VON MUELLER. [Continued from page 354 of November number.] BoEHMERiA NivEA, Gaudiehnud* — The Ramee or Rlieea. Soiitlieru Asia, as far east as Japan. Tins bush furnishes the strong and beautiful fibre woven in- to the fabric which inappropriately is called grass-cloth. The bark is soft- ened by hot water or steam, and then separated into its tender fibres. The best is obtained from the young shoots; it is glossy, tough and lasting, combin- ing to some extent the appearance of silk with the strength of flax. The ordinary market value of the fibre is about £40 per ton; but Dr. Royle men- tions that it has realized, at times, £120. The seeds are sown on manured or otherwise rich and friable soil. In the third year, or under veiy favorable cir- cumstances even earlier, it yields its crops, as many as three annually. The produce of an acre has been estimated at two tons of fibre. This latter, since Kaempfer's time, has been known to be extensively used for ropes and cordage in Japan. Our rich and warmest forest valle3-s seem best adapted for the Ramee, as occasional irrigation can be also there applied. In the open grounds of Victoria it suifers from the night frosts, although this does not material- ly injure the plant, which sends up fresh shoots, fit for fibre, during the hot season. The plant has been culti- vated and distributed since 1854, in the Botanic Garden of Melbourne, where it is readily propagated from cuttings, the seeds ripening rarely there. Cordage of this Boehmeria is three times as strong as that of hemp. Other species require to be tested, among them the one which was recently discovered iu Lord Home's Island, namel}', Boehmeria calophleba. BoRONiA MEGASTiGMA, Nees. — In Wcst Australia on margins of swamps. This remarkable bush is recorded here as an emblem of mourning, its external black- ish flowers rendering it esp^ially eligi- ble for graves. Industrially it interests us on account of its powerfully fragrant blossom«, for the sake of which this bush will deserve to be cultivated. The scent might be extracted by Mr. Bo- sisto's process. BoRRAGo OFFICINALIS, L. — South Eu- rope, Orient. An annual herb, occa- sionally used for medicinal piirposes or as an admixture to salad. Brabejum stellatifolium, L. — South Africa. The nuts of this shrub are edible, resembling those of our Maca- damia ternifolia, to which also in foliage and flowers Brabejum is closeh' allied. The nuts are also similar to those of the Chilian Guevina Avellana. Brassica alba, Viaiani. — (Sinapisalba, L.) — White Mustard. Europe, North Africa, North and Middle Asia. An annual. The seeds are less i:)ungent than those of the Blacx Mustard, but used in a similar manner. The young leaves of both are useful as a culinary and antiscorbutic salad. Dr. Masters enumerates Brassica Chinensis, B. di- chotoma, B. Pekinensis, B. ramosa and B. glauca among the Mustards, which undergo cultivation in various parts of Asia, either for the fixed oil of their seeds or for their herbage. From 15 lbs. to 20 lbs. of seeds of the White Mustard are required for an acre. In the climate of California, similar to ours, 1,400 lbs. of seeds have been gathered from an acre. Brassica nigra, Koch. (Sinapis nigra, i.) — The Black Mustard. Europe, North Africa, Middle Asia. An annual. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 9 The seeds, simpl}' cruHlicd and then sifted, constitute the Mixstard of com- merce. For medicinal piirposes seeds of this species are preferable for sina- pisms and other purposes. In rich soil this plant is very prolitic; and in our forest-valleys it is likely to remain free from the ^tack of aphis. Chemical constituents: A peculiar fixed oil, crys- talline sinapin, the fatty sinapisin, my- r on- acid and my rosin. Brassica oleracea, L. — An annual or biennial coast plant, indigenous to vari- ous parts of Europe. It is mentioned here, with a view of showing that it might be naturalized on our rocky and sandy sea-shores. From the wild plant of the coast originated various kinds of Cabbages, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brus- sels Sprouts, Kail, Kohlrabi, etc. Other races of this species are collectively represented by Brassica Rapa, L. (B. campestris, L.), the Wild Navew, yield- ing most of the varieties of Turnips, same with other cultivated forms trans- ferred to us from ancient times. Again, other varieties are comj)rehended with- in Brassica Napus, L., such as the Swedish and Teltower Turnips; while the Rape seed, so important for its oil (Colza), is also derived from a form of B. Napus. The Rape should be pro- duced here as an agrarian produce, giving a rapid return, whenever it should remain free of aphis. The hardier turnips could be produced on our highest Alps, as they are grown still within the Arctic circle, and, according to Dr. J. Hooker, at a height of 15,000 feet in the Himalaya Mountains. BuTOjrus UMBELLATUS, L. — The Flowcr- ing Rush. Europe, North and Middle Asia. This elegant perennial water- plant is mentioned here more for its value in embellishing our lakes and watercourses than for the sake of its roots. The latter, when roasted, are edible. The plant would live iu our subalpine rivulets. Bromus uxioloides, HamhohJt .-^ (B. Schraderi, Kanth.) — Here called the Prairie Grass. From Central America it has spread over many parts of the globe. The writer saw it disseminated in the mountains of St. Vincent's Gulf as early as 1847. It is one of the rich- est of all grasses, grows continuously and spreads readily from seeds, partic- ularly on fertile and somewhat humid soil, and has proved as a lasting and nutritious fodder-grass or pasture-grass one of our best acquisitions. Broussonetia papykifera, Venienat. — The Paper Mulbery. Islands of the Pacific Ocean, China, Japan, perhaps only truly indigenous in the last- named country. The bast of this tree or shrub can be converted into very strong paper. It can also be used as a textile fabric ; furthermore, the fabrics made from it can be dressed with lin- seed oil for waterproof coverings. In cultivation the plant is kept like an osier. The leaves can not be used for silkworms. European fabrics have largely superseded the clothing made of this plant in the South Sea Islands. Caesalpinia Gilliesii, Wallich. (Poin- ciana Gilliesii, Hooker. ) — La Plata States. This beautiful hardy bush can be utilized for hedges. Cajaxus Indicus, Candolle. — The Cat- jang; in Assam, called Gelooa-mah. A shrubby plant of India, probably avail- able for profitable culture and naturali- zation in the warmer parts of our Colony. It sustains itself on dry ground, and yields the pulse known as Dhal, Urhur and Congo-pea. The plant lasts for about three years. Several species of Cajanus of the Atylosia section, indi- genous to the warmer parts of Australia, might be tested here for the sake of the economic value of their seeds. The in- 10 THE CALIFOENIA HOETICULTUEIST. sect, active in tlie formation of lac, lives extensively on the Cajanus, accord- ing- to Mr. T. D. Brewster, of Assam. Silkworms live also on it. PRUNING DECIDUOUS FLOWERING SHEUBS. BT E. L. KEIMEE. From time to time we are assailed with grievous complaints from persons l^ossessing residences and private gar- dens in San Francisco and the vicinity, that deciduous shrubs will not flower ; and they are now very generally looked upon as so much rubbish by those of our community who are in the habit of purchasing ornamental trees, shrubs and plants. If a nurseryman offers for sale to his customers such shrubs as Lilacs, Snow- balls, Philadelphus, Deutzias, etc., they will tell him that they are of no earthly use, as they will never produce any flow- ers in this country; and nothing will induce thejn to purchase one of these shrubs, unless they see it in bloom in the nursery, and even then, in a year or so after, they will return, grumbling to the seller that they have been de- ceived, because they have not again seen it in bloom. Years since I used to sell a quantity of deciduous flowering shrubs, but the sale of them has gradually, diminished from year to year; and I believe that every nurseryman will say the same. I must here remark that this family of very interesting plants or shrubs will bloom in this countiy just as profusely as in any other. It is not the fault of the climate that our friends are disap- pointed, but of the jobbing gardeners who pretend to attend to private places. I will not say that all are equally' ig- norant and pretentious; on the contrary, we have some really well experienced and reliable men amongst them; but the great majority know but verj' little about gardening, and previously to their intruding themselves on the public in this part of the world as horticultural experts, have occupied no higher grade in the profession than expefience in the use of the broom, the manure-fork and the w^heelbarrow would entitle them to; indeed, to this work would they be rigidly restricted in the East and in Europe, if we except that in very busy times they might be permitted to dig a few potatoes, etc. Some time since, I made it an especial l^oint to make tours of observation around the city and suburbs, for the purpose of ascertaining for myself the cause of the before -mentioned com- plaints. To my great astonishment, I found that in every garden wherever there were Lilacs, Snowballs, and sim- ilar deciduous shrubs, they had all been trimmed down to a uniform shape, and that too in the months of January and February! Here, then, was the reason why the Lilacs and Snowballs did not bloom, and a most substantial one, too. One of these men gett a job to clean up and bring the garden into good trim. He sets to work, hacking away at eveiy tree and shrub which he sees in the place, little thinking and never caring that he is doing a vast deal more dam- age than good; his aim is to reduce every tree, plant and shrub to his idea of beauty of form. He shows no mercy to the Lilac-bush, profusely- loaded on the ends of its last year's shoots, with its purple bud^ of promise, each preg- nant with a glorious thyrsus of flowers, and which, if only let alone for a few more months, would have presented a magnificent appeai'ance, with its profu- sion of bloom, and have equally de- lighted with its exquisite fragrance. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 11 Alas ! this tree, with others of like char- acter, which would have been the pride for a time of the neatly-kept garden, until other beauties could follow, is rudely trimmed into sugar-loaf form, and when May arrives is freshly clothed in new green foliage; but the lady of the house looks in vain for the flowers, although the gardener has confidently assured her that her shrubs would cer- tainly bear flowers in the spring; he really not k^iowing that he had merci- lessly shorn the shrubs of all their flow- ering buds, and cast them on the rub- bish-heap, and that renewal was entirely out of the question until the next season. Thu^, the proprietor becomes disgusted with the shrubbeiy, and it is cast out of the premises, discarded as worse than useless. However, this state of affairs is rapid- ly passing away. We have some very good jobbing gardeners around San Francisco, and any one needing the services of one, can hear of such of any of our reliable nurserymen, who certain- ly will not recommend one of the in- competents, although I will admit that thei'e are very many of them about the* city who are unfit even to do farm work. Snowballs, Lilacs, Spireas, etc., should neither be pruned in the spring nor in the winter season. They make their new wood in June, and after that growth they set their flower- buds on the ends of nearly every ^young shoot. In the fall, they shed their foliage, and the buds then commence gradually to swell in our mild climate ; they remain longer dormant in a country where there is snow and frost. An experienced eye will always discern the difference between a leaf and a flower-bud. What- ever trimming is needed should be done immediately after the flowering, and they should only be thinned out during the winter months. If this rule is fol- lowed out, the reward to the cultivator will be a rich crop of beautiful flowers. HYACINTHS IN SPONGE. Charles Reese, of Enderby, Mary- land, gives the Country Gentleman the results of an experiment which he made last December, in growing Hyacinths in sponge. Remembei-ing the slow growth of the bulbs in glasses, often not coming into bloom until near spring, he pondered whether there is not some substance in the great labora- tory of nature more closely resembling the soft, warm bosom of the earth, than the hard, cold glass. The sponge suggested itself to his mind as possess- ing just the qualities required — "Soft, warm, and yielding; power of capillary attraction perfect ; porous, admitting freely the fruitful atmosphere through a thousand tiny apertures; a powerfval absorbent and evaporator of moisture; and besides all this, an animal sub- stance, and doubtless filled with nitro- genous matters, which, after dissolving in water, will act as fertilizers to plants, or if they be not there in sufficient quantities, they may be placed in the water with the same result aS liquid manure." He took a large sponge, made incis- ions about an inch deep, and two long, inserted bulbs in them, put the sponge filled with bulbs in the top of a large vase, and filled the vase by pouring water through the sponge until about one-half the sponge is below the water. The water was slightly warmed, and being kept in a warm room, was not allowed to become cold. "In two or three days the bulbs began to shoot their bright green spires upward, giving promises of success, and in two or three weeks they were five or six inches hi^h. About this Hite. -JJt,. 12 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTUEIST. time, in order to hide tlie unsiglitlj^ ap- pearance of the sponge, I scattered a few thimblesful of rape seed over the surface, between the bulbs, which sprang up almost immediately, and cov- ered it entirely with a fine moss-like mantle, adding greatly to the beauty of the experiment. " Desiring to give the knowledge and usefulness of the discovery and the en- joyment of its beauty, I now had it taken to my store in town, where it soon became an object of interest to great numbers of ladies, who watched its progress almost daily, until the bright flowers, more radiant than ' Solomon in all his glory,' unfolded their shining- petals, filling the aii- with fragrance, and astonishing every one with their unusually large size and perfect form. ' ' The experiment was pronounced a complete success." Mr. Reese does not say just how long after planting they first began to bloom, but probably within a few weeks. "We would advise every lady reader to try this cheap and simple experiment. Yalue of Straw fok Feed. — It has been calculated by actual analysis that twenty pounds of straw and four pounds of wheat bran contain as much nutri- ment as twenty pounds of good hay. The only difference, if there is any, is in the digestion of the food, which is about equal when the stravr is chopped and wetted for a short time and the bran mixed with it. When hay is very cheap, straw can be saved by carefully stacking through a series of years. It is most valuable, of course, when hay is high and grain is cheap ; then, by feeding grain, which is richer than hay, with straw, which is poorer, we can supply a food which combines all the requisites to animal heat and growth. ON THE PHOSPHORESCENT LIGHT OB- SERVED ON SEVERAL PLANTS. BY DE. H, BEHB. For several years past, on various oc- casions, some friends and myself have observed a sheen of white phosphor- escent ligliton the cy moid-inflorescence of Ozothaninus s])., an Australian ever- lasting of arborescent growth. In day- time, the cymoid-inflorescence is of a rather dull milky -white ; on dark still nights, not on every night, the same in- florescence emits a peculiar pale light, that makes it distinctly visible when everything else is enveloped in darkness. This light veiy much resembles that emitted by decaying wood, but is of a different origin; evidently being pro- duced by some vital or physiological, not by a chemical process of decompo- sition. Only once I have witnessed a similar phosphorescence in a living jDlant. It was on a patch of the Scld.^/oslega os- mundacca, a little moss well known by this peculiarity to the guides in the Hartz Mountain. It was in a wild re- cess of the Bodethal, that even in day- time looks more like alV^exican barranca than a tame German valley, where it was shown to me on a dark night, shedding its pale spectral light in isolated patches on the rocky wall which towered to our right. If the light exhibited by some Muce- dines and Boleti is of the same origin, or if it is a product of a peculiar decom- position, I am not able to discuss. It may be that all these processes are of the same nature as the light of Scolo- pendia electrica, and many marine ani- mals. The phenomena which I am about to mention, I have not witnessed myself, I enumerate them as they are reported, but think that one part of them is of a ■ plant, The to tainiw- ■• inaco:- ondarknigiiteti are lid" anapf.: In tease it icoilci'!' tie ivli' ' nlef:lJ:.^ stance -■ by imk m&outintkla mm THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 13 different origin ; another merely based on optical illusion. 1. Dictamnus albus. — Several observ- ers coincide in tlie description of this light, comparing it to electric sparks, under favorable circumstances envel- oping the whole inflorescence of the plant. The Himalaya species of Dic- tamnus is said to possess this peculiarity in a considerably higher degree, so that on dark nights the bases of forest trees are lighted up by the shining sparks of an apparently burning bush. In these cases it is evidently the aether- ic oil contained in the glands that cover the whole spike of the inflorescence. The exhalation of this inflammable sub- stance surrounds the plant, gets lighted by unknown causes, and burns away without in the least injuring the flower- ing stem whence it was produced. The authors who describe the phenomena state, at the same time, that by ap- I)roaching a light to the flowers, the phenomena may be sometimes produced on nights when nature herself did not light up the flowers. Professor Schlechbendal, at Halle, described to me the sparks as resembling those produced by approaching a piece of orange peel, bent between the fingers so that the setheric oil squirts out, to the flame of a burning candle. 2. Calendula officinalis (Transactions of the British Association, etc., 1843), which, hoM'ever, has not been observed again. The light produced by the ra- dial flowers of this syngenesist seems to be analogous to that of the Prothamnus and Schistostega. 8. Tropccolum major, the light being first observed by Linne's daughter. 4. Papaver orientale, observed by Goethe. Grethe describes the phenom- enon as a bluish reflection irradiating from the flower, and rej)roducing the Vol. III.— 3. form of the same. He considers it an optical illusion — the nerve of the eye, irritated by the intense scarlet of the flower, producing the same form in the supplementary color, a greenish blue. He mentions the analogous optical illu- sion produced by looking at the sun, when a number of circles of the supple- mentary color will immediately appear, even when the eye is shut. I have here enumerated all the cases of light produced by living plants. I have also stated my own observations, and have collected as much as I can those of others. It is evident the ma- terial is very scarce, and a collection of facts in regard to such an interesting subject is most desirable. So I invite everybody who has the good fortune to witness a phenomenon of this kind to study it carefully; and, most of all, to communicate to other horticulturists, so that no observation that may tend to throw light on the subject may be lost to science. Restoring Faded Flowees. — Place the flower in a small empty tea-cujD or scent-bottle. Half fill a saucer with water, in the centre of which place the cup or bottle containing the flower, over which invert a tumbler the toj:) of which rests in the water, covering the flower in the cup and excluding the air. The effect is surprising ; in a short time the faded flower will revive, the color return into the jDetals, which quickly expand, and the scent returns as povv^er- fully as when the flower is first plucked. Care should be taken that the flower does not come in contact with the sides or bottom of the inverted tumbler, I have supiDlied a method, the surprising eflScacy of which any one can prove. A wiser head than mine can jDerhajos suj)- ply me with the cause of this effect. — Flora, in London Field. u THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. PLAIN DIllECTIONS FOR COLLECTING ALGiE. BT DANIKL C. EATON, Professor of Botany iu Yale College. The following iiote,g are printed for the use of those persons in any part of the American continent who are willing to help the cause of natural history by making collections of sea-weeds and sea- mosses, but are as yet uninformed as to the modes of collecting and preparing their specimens. Of Wheke, When, and How to Col- lect.— After a heavy gale blowing on the coast, almost any beach of sea, gulf or bay, will be covered with algse, often in great quantities, coarse and fine, black, red and green, in entangled mass- es. Such heaps should be carefully examined as soon as possible after their formation, or else the more delicate kinds will be quickly destroyed by de- cay. At extreme low water, the sea will leave tide-pools among rocks, or some- times in the sand, and by wading in these pools many sorts may be obtained. The rock-pools w'ith clear water and some shade from the rocks will generally yield the finest specimens. Old buoys, piles, wrecks, etc., afford good resting- places for sea-weeds. In quiet weather, a small dredge worked from a boat, in water from one to fifteen fathoms deep, will often bring up varieties not to be obtained in any other way. A strong fishing-line with coarse hooks will bring them up from the bottom also. A seine left a day or two in the sea, as a pound- net, for instance, will catch man}' alga; which were floating in the water. The collector ought always to have a light hand-net — a bag of mosquito-net- ting stretched on a brass-hoop of 8 or 10 inches diameter, and secured to a good six-foot staff, is very convenient — a light basket containing several quart or pint preserve-jars, a few smaller wide- mouth jars, and perhaps a jiair of brass forceps and a pocket magnifier. The coarser sorts may be put in the basket, and the finer ones iu the jars, keeping the latter filled with clear sea- water. It is well to wash each speci- men clean when first obtained, so that the collection taken home may be in good order. Very rare or delicate spec- imens should be jDut separately into thp smaller bottles. Care should be taken to get the witole jjlant, if not too large ; and if it be very large, to cut out for jDreservation the root or "holdfast," and portions of the stem and other parts of the plant. The most careful collectors will note also the kind of place where the plant was obtained, whether on rocks, piles, floating, or growing on coarser varieties. Of PkeservixVG the Coaeser Sorts. — These should be shaken a little, loos- ened or spread out a little, but never washed in fresh water, and then dried in the air. The best way is to stretch a cord in some windy, and if convenient shady, place, and to hang the specimens on the cord. The flat -leaved forms, however, dry to best advantage if spread out on coarse papers and laid on a board. They should be protected from the dew at night, or brought under cover. In this way, a day or two will dry almost any sea-weeds, and, as the salt remains in them, they will keep for years, and may be easily soaked out and mounted on paper at any time. This rough- dried collection should be jjacked in boxes, and if the specimens pack too closely, twigs may be placed among them ; if not closely enough, a slight sprinkling will make them so pliable as to pack nicely. Such sea-weeds, how- ever unsightly they may be in this con- dition, may eventually be made into THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 15 excellent specimens. Corallines and other stony algve maj' be wrapped up in paper, and will keep so indefinitely. Of Mounting the More Delicate Sorts on Paper. — Dr. Harvey has so well described this process, that the following description of it is taken from one of his works on olgse. " The col- lector should have at hand a coujole of large flat white dishes, filled Avith [fi-esh] water, in one of which the specimens may be washed, pruned and freed from parasites, and singly introduced into the other when sufficiently cleaned. When the specimen is floated in the second dish, a piece of white paper of proportionate size is to be introduced under it, the -branches finely displayed with a pointed instrument, a porcupine's quill or a small forceps, and the super- fluous parts removed. The paper, with the specimen so displayed ujDon it, is then to be carefully withdrawn from the water, placed between two sheets of soft paper, and subjected to pressure, like other plants. Thin calico [white muslin] rags are useful to lay immedi- ately over the specimens, between them and the soaking paper, as the cloth is less likeh^ to adhere to their surface than paper, and if it does adhere, is more readily removed without injury. After the first six hours, and again once every day till the specimens are fully dr^', the wet paper must be changed, and then it will be found, in most cases, that the specimen has adhered to the white jDa- per on which it was displayed. The smaller kinds will be sufiiciently dry in forty-eight hours. A very little prac- tice will make the process easy, and the trouble will be repaid by the beauty and interest of the collections which will soon be formed." To the above it may be added, that the firmer red varie- ties will improve in color for several hours steeping in fresh water, but many of the most delicate must be mounted from salt water only, else the color, and sometimes even the structure of the plant will be destroyed. The best as well as the cheaj-yest kind of press is two good pine boards, about twelve by eighteen inches, and half a dozen bricks sej)arately tied up in wrapping paper. Too great a pressure leaves a i^rint of the cloth on the specimen, and renders it also more difficult to revive a frag- ment for microscopic examination. For ladies' albums, algse are often mounted on fine Bristol board or large wedding cards, and some beautiful spec- imens are pressed between layers of white flannel— half cotton is best— with- out the use of either muslin rags or soaking paj^er. A solution of one part crystalized carbolic acid, ten parts pure glycerine, and forty parts water, will preserve algse a long time, and such specimens are even better for study with the micro- scope than specimens on paj^er. It remains only to add that the writer of these notes will receive with thanks any collections, large or small, from all parts of the world, and will endeavor to name all American specimens sent to him, if so desired. New Haven, Conn., Nov., 1872. A REPORT comes from Cuba that a sugar-planter there has doubled the value of his estate by the use of a steam- plow introduced in 1868. What was formerly almost an impervious tract, the effect partly of nature and partly of inefficient cultivation, has been reduced to a porous soil. Two thousand acres of strong clay intermixed with stones of all sizes, and resting for the most jDart on a stone bottom, are now in fine tilth to an average dejith of eighteen inches. — Exchange. aaEBB ^i'mrmnulmm" "^..i 16 THE CALIPOR>aA JOHTK ULTURIST. CULTURE OF HOUSE - PLANTS. BY r. A. MILLEB. •• \V1. ' ^ . ^ "■ if J!i • hou£C,' . I huve 1, to onswer very frwiuentlr, and scarcely hftvo I ' -. when I nm t< , lit ^h;is been treated with a preat deal of care, but luiH failed to thrive. There arc only a certain claaa of plant* which can be expectetl to thrive well in the Iiouko, and there are rertain ruleH which necessarily iuu»t be ob- served in ctiltivating them, or disap- pointment iniiHt foll«)w. In many casefl I have ff)und, also, that too much is ex- I)€cted of a plant, in the way of g^rowing and flowering. From my own observations and ex- perience, I can strongly recommend the following flowering plants, as the 1" adapted for the house, or to use a uk;^ fashionable term, window gardening: Primula «iji«'»Ki> (Chinese Primrose), of which very excellent varieties ciin now be obtained in our floml establish- nionts, ii^a^pf the most charming fl(i\v(-ii^^^^^K^i»dcr cultivation. It meously from six to year, and, if traus- ime, will flower well Its foliage is always [Thr colcirs are pure nk, red, violet and iuiX double. During 18, when they flower >*»y Bhould be i>laced md unny position ; and rhii] once a week mod- hould be porous and jt, never wet. AVhen 1i<';4in to fade, they should I, lu order to throw all the tlie jdant into the new hicl: will make their api)ear- duy or two. After the plant ;^ •:rcd flowers in ' • " f^r It e l^nn one white and one feni-leared 'Hm. .1- ' - ' ■' ho oi re to protlucc . little nod- wers upon c, .. ,-L„,k, which it rth in profusion. The (;. da- me jH one of my favorites. From seed - '> " the spring of 1S72, I hiul fine ^ plants in the mouth of De- ce<>er. The flowers are of various shifcs, from pure white to a rich purple, son being white with purple centre, othls white-blotched and dotted with puve. Untler ordinary treatment, Cy^mens will flower here verj" j>ro- fus^ from December to May. The Cyamen is a bulbous j)lant, and, like otlii bulbs, should have a season of restwhen its leaves should be allowed to cop off for want of water, which 8ho»d be given only just enough to kt'ojthe bulb from shriveling. This resttg-time may be extended from Juu. to November, when, by a more libeil supply of water, it will again be- gin • assume its activity. During the H«liliiBBH9HK'l»!IW>»Ha!«)HRI*nt:1i !t9iS5??tiia Farmer. WOEK FOR THE MONTH. BY r. A. MILLER. Rain has been plentiful all over the State, and the work of sowing, plant- ing, and preparing the fields and gar- dens, should not now be delaj^ed. Our nurserymen and florists are pre- pared to furnish a fine assortment of trees and shrubs, both useful and orna- mental ; prices are moderate, and there is abundance of room for every tree and plant, which is ofi'ered for sale. The rains having commenced rather late this season, the best time for planting- is rapidly passing away, and I would urge all who wish to make improve- 28 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. ments in their grounds, to do so prompt- ly. The California climate requires early planting. To those who 'have gardens, I -n'ould suggest a general overhauling. In the first place, have all your trees and shrubs properly trimmed and pruned. Your evergreen- trees and shrubs need it, to give them a good form ; your roses need it, to produce new wood and an abundance of fine flowers ; after trimming, secure them well to their stakes, to protect them against our heavy winds; when all this is done, I would further suggest the application of some good old horse-manure, by spreading it over the ground, and then your gardener may go to work and trench the ground well with a spade, taking care that all weeds and the manure is well worked in below the surface. For lawns, I would recommend a top- dressing of fresh or old manure, which should be allowed to remain ujoon the surface for a few weeks, in order that the rain may carry the nutritive part- icles into the sod, after which the re- mainder may be raked off. Most of our city lawns consists of made ground, which is soon exhausted, and, unless a fertilizing process is adopted, the grass can not be expected to grow uniform and thrifty. The planting of Hyacinths, Tulips, Pseonies, Lilies, Crown Imperials, Lilies of the Yalley, Amaryllis, Anemones, Ranunculus, etc., should now be com- menced. Plant, (after thoroughly pre- paring the soil,) in a warm and mod- erately dr}' situation ; a well manured sandy loam suits them best. Pseonies may be planted in heavier soil, and they require less sun, and will bear more moisture. The planting of seeds in the open ground should be delayed, although in this mild climate Mignonette, Pansies, Candytuft and the like, will germinate readily ; but I have found that the planting of such seeds in February and March, is quite as good, and frequently much better. The ground at this time is cold and wet, and the seed is apt to lie dormant for many days, Avhich often result in decay. During the month of December, we had some unusually cold weather, which, in many localities, seriously injured Heliotropes, Fuchsias, Geraniums, and other soft- wooded plants. These, how- ever, will come up again from the ground. Notwithstanding the cold weather, we notice in the northern part of the city Heliotropes, Fuchsias and Geraniums, and even Cinerarias, in full bloom in the open air. In my garden, the following plants are now in bloom iii the open ground: Terbenas, Ageratums, Stevia, Fuchsias, Heliotropes, Cinerarias, Ericas, Pansies, Pinks, Pentstemon, Cestrum, Gerani- ums,Polygala, Laurustinus, Myrtle, Can- terbury Bell, Sollya, Roses (of which I would mention, Safrano, Daily "White, Lyouiase, Hermosa, Model of Perfec- tion, Pauline Lancezeur, Eliza Sauvage, La Sylphide, Mad. Bdfeanquet, etc.). Calceolaria (the shrubby variety), So- lanum jasminoides, Veronica, Brug- mansia, Diosma, and many others. Greenhouses and conservatories, which are not artificially heated, have been affected by the cold and the following rainy weather. I do not j^rovide for artificial heat, yet I have the following plants in bloom : Cyclamen, Camellia, Azalea, Primula sinensis, Torrenga, Daphne, Salvia, Jasmine, Cactus, Cin- eraria, Begonia, Hyacinths, Tuberoses, Hoyacarnosa, etc. Plants in greenhouses should now be watered very moderately, and no shift- ing into larger pots should take place at this time. I find, that plants in com- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 29 paratively small pots do best in winter. Give fresh air plentifully ; during clear •weather it maybe given from nine o'clock in the morning until three o'clock in the afternoon, unless heavy winds prevail. If your Coleus or Bigonias show rot- ten leaves, remove them at once. Seeds of greenhouse plants should not be sown yet, unless bottom -heat can be given. All that should be done now is, to preserve the plants which are on hand ; the propagating of any kind should be delayed until a more favor- able time. If it should be desirable to have early vegetables. Lettuce, Cabbage and Cauli- flower seeds, may be sown in a frame. Peas may be planted now. KEPOET ON THE FEUIT MARKET. BY E. J. HOOPEK. That most excellent, healthy, and useful fruit — the Apple — is usually found in great abundance in our mar- kets throughout the year. We obtain the early or summer apples from such warm situations as Pleasant Vallej', Yolo County, sometimes as early as the months of April and May ; one month later we have them from less warm localities around us, within twenty miles of the city; and, still later they are brought to us from further north, Oregon, etc. The same remarks will apply to our supplies of apples of the fall and winter varieties — though of the latter our warm, pushing climate allows but few compared with those of the eastern parts of the United States. The varieties which last with us the longest in winter are the Newtown Pi^Dpins, Si)itzenbergs, Putnams, Golden Rus- sets, Lady Apples, etc. The Newtown Pippin, no doubt, ranks highest for all Vol. III.— 5. general purposes on this coast, as it does in New Yor^. When apples are required for preserves, they should be used before grooving mealy — the most common fault of apples, if not of most other fruits, in this rapidly forcing- clime. Among the largest apples is the kind called Gloria Mundi, but it is rather coarse, and insipid in flavor; they have been known to weigh three and a half pounds. Of Pears: there are many varieties of this excellent fruit all the year, except in early spring and late in the winter. Among the choicest of winter pears are the Winter Nelis, Glout Morceau, Easter Beurre, Vicar of Winkfield (not Wakefield), Lawrence, and Beurre Clairgeau. They are now becoming pretty scarce in the markets, but are at the present time more abundant than usual at this season. Oranges are fast becoming more plentiful, and lemons also. That de- licious, wholesome, and nourishing Southern fruit — the Banana — refreshes the sight (it is rather too dear for the ordinary palate), in large, beautiful bunches, half yellow, and perhaps most frequently half green. They grow sej)- arately on a very stout twig or branch, in a spiral form, to the number of from twenty to sixty in a bunch. The red varieties are considered the best, though they seem to be much scarcer here. The Plantain is used for cooking only. Grajoes have nearly, if not altogether, disajDjDeared. In the East, they seem to preserve the Catawba longer than we do ours; owing, probably, to their sea- son being later. We have a great ad- vantage over the East, in being able to grow all the luscious foreign grapes in perfection in the ojjen air. There they have to use hot and cold graperies for these. It seems to be of little or no avail to 30 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. suggest to our fruit-sellers to label every variety of fruit^tliey have for sale. "We have done so several times to no purjoose. If they would take our hint, it would speedily educate the public as to the best kinds of all the fruits. It is worthy of remark that, notwithstand- ing the lavish liberality of many of our housekeepers, and their willingness to pay the largest prices for the best pro- ductions of our market, we find more fruits than ought to be offered for sale of an inferior quality. Surely, the 50 to 100 per cent, higher prices paid for the few superior cultivated and perfect fruits which are found and sold in our markets, should be an all-sufficient pre- mium to induce the fruit-grower to de- vote his attention to procure the choicest varieties of the different sorts of fniit We would instance among summer fruits that most delicious plum, "The genuine Green-gage," wliich is so little cultivated. And so with man}' other of the choicest and lirst-rato fruiU. The numerous varieties, both culti- vated and wild, foreign and domestic, which are received here and sold iii the markets, demonstrate the necessity, as well as the importance, of their being perfectly cultivated. We observe that the farmers of this State have lately formed a union for the better and fairer atten- tion to their interests, as between buyers and sellers. Certainly, the fruit cult- urists should do the same thing, for they are too much in the power of the mid- dle-men, or salesmen, in the cities and towns. Fruit, in perfection, should bo full sized, sound, ripe, fresh, and of the best kind; and when most plentiful, possess the best and highest flavor. They should be kept in cooler places than those in which they are usuallv stored, as this best preseiTes their high- ly valued juiciness. (TorrcsiJomUnrf. To the Editor of (f- Sib : — I have just received friend, the Profensor of Botan iu the Sheffield Scientific School, ^1 D. C. Eaton, a copy of some uotes Mich he has prepared for the guiilnuce t those who wish to collect .sea- weeds • algJB. Before leaving New Haveu. lofessor Eaton gave me a ver}" b< tn of the sea-weeds, which ht led within the past few years, on a« sea. l>oard of New England. The c.hxlion includes fifty-five hj '■' <>f which are detenniuetl ih printed lal>elH, indicatiug the liabties. Ho will l>c glad to ex-? •- ■ '■•f-ns with collectors, if tiu\ ii.s vicinity, and with the hope of .romot- ing such exclr ■ i . - i .,.i.i.;» his collection .. and de|)OKit it lu tiic t'niverty. it will give 1 ' •<) Ix* thr ' n of exchu: a any l collector auil I'rofoHHor t^ton. Yours, rch) ' ' I' ,N. University of California, [ Oakland, Cal., Dec. 26, 187*.' This collection has l)oen i i with much inttrest by an ex] i collector of marine algie, re»Ung in this city. He will be ]>! ' an early date, to exchan^^o ^\ r Eaton. The notes, alludfi i,, i-y ji :. -sor Oilman, will be fouml in anothf-olumn of the present uuml>er of Uie ^^gazine. We append a lett*r from on friend, Dr. C. A. Stivers, relating to tl r llrc- tion of algoe sent by Mr. Eat< To the Ed'Oor of the Calijomia Iluriieu.r .•,',. Deau Sir: — As a student alg:o- ology, I have derived great leasure from the examination of a sidl col- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 31 lection of marine algse, from the New- England coast, prepared by Professor Eaton, of New Haven, and by him pi'e- sented to Prof. D. C. G-ilman, President of the University of California. It was through the kindness of the above- named gentleman, and of Mr. Carmauy, that I was enabled to examine the col- lection, and compare it with my own of the Pacific Coast. Although not strict- ly in the line of your articles, I have still thought that a few words, re- specting them, would not be out of place. The collection embraces specimens from the three great classes of marine vegetation, and comprises some, which have not, as yet, been found on this coast. It is particularly rich in the Bhodospermce (red weeds), such as the Callifhamnions, whose tracery is more delicate than the finest lace, and with a color extremely brilliant. One speci- men in particular, the Daysa elegans, is remarkable for its rich coloring. This weed has, I believe, never been found on this coast, though I have every reason to think that it has a habitat here. The series is too small to make a comparison with those found here ; but as a general thing, I think their colors are more brilliant, while their growth is less robust. This collection is, I understand, to be dejDosited in the State University, and it is to be hoped that it will form the nucleus of a collection which shall em- brace both the east and west coasts of North America. The stud}^ of algssology may seem, to practical minds, of little value, and as having but little bearing upon the eco- nomic matters of life. Such is not the case. They play a most important j)art in the machinery of Nature; and, aside from their great beauty and interesting formation, are worthy objects for our consideration. Yours truly, C. A. Stivers, M. D. We hope to hear more of this in- teresting subject. — Ed. California Shad. — Those interested in the subject of fish culture will be pleased to know that the effort to stock our rivers with shad has attained the gratifying beginning of success. In June, 1871, the State Commissioner placed in the Upper Sacramento a large number of shad procured of Seth Green, of New York. It was well known that these fish would migrate to the sea in the autumn, and also known that when old enough to spawn they would return to fresh water, but it was not knoAvn as to whether they would return j^rior to that time, or whether the migratory instinct was founded solely on the necessities of spawning. The fish were placed in the river with but slight expectation of see- ing any result of the effort for three yearr^ at least, at which age they first spawn. Australia planted her waters seven consecutive years before a single shad was caught therein, but the efibrt in California was destined to bear early fruit. Seth Green, who under the direc- tion of the Commission imported the fish, offered a reward of $50 for the first shad caught in the river. It now appears that the reward has been earn- ed, though not yet claimed. Last sum- mer two Indians caught in their traj)S two fish of a species wholly new to them. They were caught in the ujDjDer Sacramento, about four miles from its confluence with Pit River. The Indians, not a little surprised at the capture of the finny strangers, and having never met their kind before, took them to 32 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Mr. Elinore, who resides ou tlie river at tliat point. Mr. Elmore, suspecting the truth, took them to his neighbor Hovey, who, having resided on shad streams at the East, was competent to expert the case, and who at once pronounced them genuine shad. The Commissioners re- gard the stor}' of this capture as wholly reliable, and feel safe in declaring the effort to stock the liver with this valua- ble species of the finny tribe as success- ful. Apropos of this, it may be stated that the Commissioners have recently placed ten thousand trout in the South Yuba, near the head-waters of that stream ; also, a number of speckled trout in the north fork of the American. Somebody claiming to be authority in the matter, has declared that an acre of water is equal to an acre of land in pro- ducing food to sustain human life. If this be true, fish- culture is worthy the attention it is receiving. — Sacramento Record. Ramie and Jute. — In the Report of the Commissioner of Agriculture for 1872, just received, we find an interest- ing allusion to the value and growth of two of the more recently introduced textile plants. Ramie and Jute, and speaking of them as likely to prove of importance, particularly to the southern States; and as we have the climate of those States and some advantages they have not, for the growing of the plants alluded to, we extract from the report as follows: "Ramie and jute, fibrous plants which promise great value, have recent- ly been introduced into the United States, and to some extent have been distributed by the Department in the southern States, the climate of which is alone adapted to their successful pro- duction. Of the former, little progress has been made in its use, because ma- chinery has not been invented b}- which its fibre may be separated; but its value, in view of its fineness, strength, and beauty, will yet command an exercise of ingenuity which will make its cult- ure a profitable industry. "The latter has already taken its place in the manufacture of carpets and other fabrics as a substitute for cotton, wool, flax, and hair. Each of these, I may safely predict, is destined to occupy an important place in the products and manufactures of this country; and it is not the least important consideration that they may serve largely to diversify the crops of our southern States, a sub- ject which has commanded much of my attention, because of my conviction of the many benefits which will result therefrom.'' — Pacific Rural Press. Warm AVater for Plants. — The tem- perature of the water used in watering house plants, or even those in the open border, is a matter that should receive more attention than is given it. It is too often the case that the temperature is wholly unknown, and g^reat injury is often the consequence. There is no mistaking the effect of warm spring rains upon young grass and plants, and its influence upon the germination of seeds; whilst autumn rains — unless they too are warm — produce no such sudden and vivifjdng effects. Water should be tempered, should be made temperate, and never applied to plants when below GO deg., and had better be ten degrees higher than one low^er. Experiments have shown that cucumber's in a hot bed will stand water at 90 degrees without injury; but, as a standing rule for all plants and shrubs, from 60 to 75 degrees is the right tem- perature. Water used in watering plants should THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 33 be free from sediment. It is not essen- tial that it be pure water; but for sbow- ering the leaves and branches should be as near pure as ordinary spring or river water. In watering the earth of jjot or border jalants, even liquid ma- nure, or water containing fertilized salts can be used : but it should not be turbid or muddy. Such water soon fills up all the pores of the soil, preventing the in- gress of air to the roots of the plant. Extended Irrigation. — The foregoing, which refers more particularly to the application of water to pot plants, may very reasonably suggest the propriety of understanding well the properties and condition of water used for pur- poses of more extended irrigation. We not unfrequently hear of injury done to plants and trees by watering; and the charge is laid to irrigation; and at once a sweeping denunciation goes forth, condemning the practice as " worse than useless." But find out the real truth, and the fault woiild lie, not so much in the apiDlication or use of water, as its nature, condition, or temperature. It is not spring water that injures vegetation when apjDlied, but it is cold spring water; nor is it the excess of water, half as much as it is the mode or time of application. The subject of irriga- tion is one of growing importance to the interests of our agriculture, and our columns are always open to its reason- able discussion. — Pacific Enrol Press. HoRTicuLTUR-Uu MEETING. — The annual meeting of the Wisconsin State Horti- cultural Society will be held at Madi- son, commencing February 3, 1873. These sessions are usually well attended by prominent horticulturists of Illinois, Michigan, and Iowa, who are always welcomed. Plants for Parlor or Conservatory. — Of the many plants used to beautify the house, few equal the palms. There is a great variety of form, most of them having rather long, pendent, or curved plumose fronds. IMany are delicate, and must be kept at an even genial tem- perature, protected from drafts, to in- sure any degree of success in their cul- ture; but there are some quite hardy, that will do very well and give an attrac- tion to any group of plants, and in any room kept a little above freezing. Among the most hardy we will name a few: Chamaerops, fortunei, and tomentosa, very hardy; cabbage palms, chamsedorea elegans, corypha australis, (fan palm), thrinax parviflora, are extremely beauti- ful; Latania borbonica; livistonia sub- giobosus is one of the prettiest fan palms we ever saw. All of the above are cheap, and can be had of most large floral establishments. — Southern Agri- culturist. The Medical Botany of California. — Dr. W. P. Gribbons, of Alameda, has been devoting considerable time and labor to the investigation of the medi- cal properties of the plants peculiar to this Coast, and solicits the aid of his professional brethren in different quar- ters. In a paper, lately read before the State Medical Association, he describes a number of eases showing marked benefit from the Grindelia in Asthma, and thinks it will prove a valuable rem- edy, if employed with proper discrimi- nation. There are two species which appear equally active, the robusta grow- ing in low places, and the hirsutula on dry fields and hills. The infusion he regards as the best prej)aration. Peru projDOses to pay off her public debt in guano. '"^Hrtn^BBB [|||p^imi^ittiiiiiaaiffli;KiL..ii>i 32 THE CALIFORNIA HOL Mr. Elmore, who resides on tlie river at that point. Mr. Elmore, suspecting the truth, took them to his neighbor Hover, who, haviug resided on shad streams at the East, was competent to expert the case, and who at once pronounced them genuine shad. The Commissioners re- gard the stoiy of this capture as wholly reliable, and feel safe in declaring the effort to stock the river with this valua- ble species of the finny tribe as success- ful. Apropos of this, it may be stated that the Commissioners have recontly placed ten thousand trout in the South Yuba, near the head-waters of that stream ; also, a number of speckled trout in the north fork of the American. Somebody claiming to be authority in the matter, has declared that an acre of water is equal to an acre of laud in pro- ducing food to sustain human life. If this bo true, fish- culture is worthy the attention it is receiving. — Sacramento Record. R.\MiE AND Jdte. — In the Report of the Commissioner of Agriculture for 1872, just received, we find an interest- ing allusion to the value and growth of two of the more recently introduced textile plants, Ramie and Jute, and speaking of them as likely to prove of importance, particularly to the southern States; and as we have the climate of those States and some advantages they have not, for the growing of the plants alluded to, we extract from the report as follows: "Ramie and jute, filn-ous plants which promise great value, have recent- ly been introduced into the United States, and to some extent have been distributed by the Department in the southern States, the climate of which is alone adapted to their successful pro- duction. Of the former, little progress has been made in its use, because ma- chint its fib in vit beaut N of in;_' ure a \ "Th. in the ii^ fabrics ^ fiax, an> safely pi import an mauufact not the i that tliey the crops ject which attention, the many therefrom. "NVaum Wa peraturc of ' house plauth lx)rder, is a i mor- too ' is wholly unK often the c > mistaking th< rains upon y^ its influ' ' ■ seeds ; n\ i : too are wann and vivifying' < : Water should made temperate plants when be' better be ten d' lower. Experin cucumbere in a 1 at 90 degrees wii standing rule fon from GO to 75 dot ■ perature. Water used in. ; • Ik. t THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 35 Thixxixg Fruit. — This is a lesson •which we have learned, and the necessi- ty of Avhich we have often endeavored to impress upon cultivators, and which every successive season teaches with stronger emphasis: It is absolutely nec- essary for all who send fruit to market, to send large fruit — and the markets are constantly and progressively requir- ing large and fine fruit. Even the Seckel-pear, which once commanded in the Boston market the highest price, will not now, unless of extra size, sell for any more, if as much, as common varieties of larger size. A medium- sized fruit, or even one of smaller size, may be more economical for use, but unless some decided change in the ^re- ferences of the majority of purchasers shall take place, large fruit will sell better than small. To produce this, the fruit must not only have good culti- vation, but must be thinned. One-half the trees which bear fruit every year, would be benefited b}^ having one-half of the fruit taken off as soon as it is well set. The over -bearing of a tree will, in a few years, destroy it. We may lay it down as a certain rale, that excessive production is always at the expense of both quality and quantity ; if not in the same season, then in the succeeding one : for when branch is contending with branch, leaf with leaf, and fruit with fruit, for its supply of light and food, it would, indeed, be an anomaly in Nature, if this should not result in permanent injury to the trees as well as to the annual crop. — Marshal P. Wilder. The corn crop the last season in the United States is thought to be the larg- est ever produced. Oats, barley and rye are about average. Potatoes less than averao-e. Changes in Russian River. — A cor- respondent of the Cloverdale Bee notes several remarkable changes that have taken place in Russian River in the past few years. Its banks were heavily wooded, and when it overflowed it de- posited a sediment, raised its banks, and returned to its channel without doing any injury. But now, since the land has been cleared and cultivated, when the river overflows its banks, the swollen waters having full sweep carry off the deposits of light soil of former years ; and as it returns to its bed, the banks are cut down at a destructive rate, changing the course of the stream and swallowing hundreds of acres of land worth from $50 to $150 an acre, and at the same time increasing the width of the river from an eighth to a quarter of a mile. The Russian riv- er bottom will produce 100 bushels of corn and 125 sacks of potatoes to an acre. Funeral Flowers, in New York. — In all our larger cities flowers form a large source of revenue to florists who make bouquets, etc., a specialty. In New York, the aggregate sum spent yearly on flowers is immense. Upon funeral flowers, especially, large sums are expended. The following will show the prices paid for leading sorts in Win- ter: The price of a handsome basket is from five to fifty dollars. Bouquets can be made at from three to twenty-five dol- lars. Single rosebuds costs twenty- five cents, and carnations twenty' cents. Smilax is sold at one dollar a yard, and violets by the dozen at twelve cents. One spray of lilies of the valley costs twenty-five cents. Autumn leaves — when winter comes 36 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Poisox Oak. — Experiments with ani- mals go to prove that Poison Oak (y/a/.s toxicodendron) may be eaten with im- punity. Indeed, we have frequently heard it asserted by persons in Califor- nia that they have seen it eaten by men, with a view of its acting as an antidote to its poison externally, or from mere braggadocio. All Californians are aware of the violence with which its juice acts when applied to the skin of most -pev- sons, many being severely poisoned by its slightest touch. It is also claimed that some people are so sensitive to its action as to be seriously poisoned by its exhalations, without any contact what- ever with either its juice or foliage. — Pacific Rural Press. Charcoal as a Purifier. — The Coun- try Gentleman says: All kinds of uten- sils can be purified from disagreeable odors by rinsing them out with charcoal wet into a soft paste. Putrid water is immediately deprived of its bad smell by its use. When meat, fish, etc., are liable to become spoiled from long- keeping, charcoal dust will keep them sweet; and if there is a single taint to meat, it can be taken out by putting three or four pieces of coal as large as an egg into the water in which it is boiled. This will effectually purify what seems too far gone for use. Irish Bogs. — They have been cele- brated for ages as simply immense basins of licjuid mud of no value, and the land they occupy has always been considered as lost, till within a few years. Out of bog mud there are manufact- ured splendid candles, quite equal to wax. In fact, they are formed of a ma- terial held in solution in the mass of matter, which is a rosin that is believed to be the product of trees or vegetable products of a vastly remote epoch in the world's history. Bogwood is simply trunks of ancient trees that have been satiu-ated in bogs for undefined periods till they are charged with various elements that not only give them a very hard texture, but an exceedingly black color susceptible of a beautiful polish. Ornaments for ladies, hubs for wheels, and various articles for the toilette, are formed from the ancient productions of primitive forests. — Alia. The BA^•ANA. — This plant is an article of primary importance for the subsist- ence of man wherever the temperature reaches a sufficient degree of heat for its growth. An acre planted with it will sujoport more than fifty persons, whereas the same amount of land sown with wheat will at best only supjDort two p>ersons. As to the exuberance of its growth, it is calculated that, other circumstances remaining the same, its produce is forty-four times greater than that of the potato, and one hundred and thirty-three times greater than that of wheat. The banana, however, does not thrive outside the tropics. — Western Rural. The California Farmer thinks the fact that this State has only four per cent, of woodland — the lowest average in the Union — and that the forests she has are being very rapidly consumed, and that her coal-beds are at best not extfensive,. ought to incite immediate action on the part of her public men. The camphor-tree grows extensively in Florida. i;:^ii^fcilWi:!.^,:iB.;ita:«iaii!ig!kiiii!!i!;■(ii.|Htf^!■!il>^lHit!K^^ 36 ! THE CALIFORMA H0RT:ILTI RIST. Poison Oak.— Exiieriuients with ani- mals go to prove that Poison Oak (rhva ioxicodnidron) may be eaten with im- punity. Indeed, we bave frequently heard it asserted by persons in Califor- nia that they have seen it eaten by men, with a view of its acting as an antidote to its poison externally, or from mere braggadocio. All Californians are aware of the violence with which its juice acts when applied to the skin of most per- sons, many being severely poisoned by its slightest touch. It is also claimed that some people are so sensitive to its action as to be seno\isly poisoned liy it« exhalations, without any contact what- ever with either its juice or foliage. — Pacific Rural Press. CiiARro.\L AS A Pnunru. — The Cmni- tnj Oeiith'inan says: All kinds of uten- sils can be purified from disagreeable odors by rinsing them out with charcoal wet into a soft i)astc. Putrid water is immediately deprived of its bad smell by its use. When meat, fish, etc., are liable to become spoiled from long keeping, charcoal dust will keep them sweet; and if there is a single taint to meat, it can be taken out by putting three or four pieces of coal as large as an egg into the water in which it is boiled. This will eft'ectually purify uliut set mv too fur gone for use. Irish Bogs. — They have been cele- brated for ages as simply immense basins of liquid mud of no value, and the land they occupy has always been considered as lost, till within :, few years. Out of bog mud there are manufact- ured splendid candles, quite equal to wax. In fact, they arc formed of a ma- teiial held in solution in the mass of matter^hich is a rosin that is l>elieved to be le itr('tor}'. Bogood i^ Kim ply trunks of ancient tiof- * ' o l>een saturnte*! in bogs for i>eriod8 till tliey are charge with various elements that not on\\ • '' a vrryliard texture, but ftU » -■ M.u 1» tulor BUhCCptiblc of a tout if ul polish. Ornaments foi ladi. T ' ' - - * rpls, and vnr aiii' »< i aro formed : the aiient productions of primitive forofiU^ All I . of J I _ ence ( man wbererer the tenipemtun reachf a m '"' " * li«at for its gWth. , i with it will [^])Mrt more than Aftj persons, wli< ' " I will: .. • two |> its cin pn-: thii' and • : of wl»t. not tHv«' < As to the exuberance of tr-four times sreater thai. ' • », an«l •- .:mcfi gn-ix. The Iwnana, however, t\<>(-'n utsidc the tropics. — Westrm 'J < that .. WOOtilld Un: bell her ' ou l>art :it the f. thinks the fact 'Mr j>er cent, of II". trjige in the ' •'ts she h:. 1. and liioi 4 ^ Jk ! a ^^ _t ^*_ FLOR. ^S FOK a it i J 38 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. greenhouses are entirely lilled with them. I do not say that all of these would do well in California; but, from experience, I.can say that' some of the best are doing remarkably well in the open air. When first introduced here, our florists were in the habit of treating them as greenhouse plants ; this was all wrong, and since they have been culti- vated in the open air, they are fast be- coming the favorites of every florist, and, at the same time, of our amateur gardeners. They find their way slowly into our gardens, because most of our so- called job-gardeners do not even know the plant, much less its fine qualities. The Ericas are evergreen; the foliage is graceful and dense, and mostly of a dark green color; the flowers are small and bell -shaped, extremely del- icate and pleasing, and of red, white, pink, purple, rose and other shades, and they almost cover the plant in time of flowering, which commences in De- cember with some varieties, and con- tinues throughout winter and spring. From a plant two or three years old, hundreds of little branches, full of flowers, may be cut for bouquets and vases, for which purpose they are well adapted. I hope, before long, to see as many Ericas in our gardens, as we now see of Fuchsias. The propagation of Ericas must be left to our profes- sional gardeners, unless there are ample preparations made. The ends of the young shoots are used for the purpose; they are planted in sand, closely cov- ered with glass, and must be carefully watched until Avell rooted. There is no flowering shrub which I could more strongly recommend for general culti- vation. To those already described, I will now add the Buuvardla, a splendid flowering shrub, which has heretofore been treated exclusively as a greenhouse plant, and Avhich, in my opinion, is incorrect. Although this shrub has given satisfac- tion to florists as a greenhouse plant, it will more generally please if cultivated in the open air ; our climate is well adapted for it. However, I would ad- vise to set out strong plants of at least one year old. Under glass, the Bou- vardias are much infested by insects, which is not the case if cultivated out of doors. It is also an evergreen shrub, producing waxy, tubular flowers, in bunches, of rich pink, red, and white colors. I believe it will flower continu- ously, the whole year around, in the open air. All the varieties may not be equally well adapted for out of doors, but B. el^ans, Hogarth, splendent, and VrrJandii, will do well. For bouquets and vases, the flowers are exceedingly well adapted, and will last for a long time. A more general cultivation of this shrub ought to be encouraged. Plants may be obtained cheaj)ly of all responsible florists. The proper time to plant them out is from this time until May, Our amateur gardeners are constant- ly asking for choice * plants for the garden. If they will make diligent in- quiries, our florists of good standing will supply their wants, and if they are encouraged, they will continue to in- troduce desirable plants ; but so long as people are satisfied with Cypress, Pine, and Gum trees to fill up their gardens, nurserymen and florists Avill suff"er loss by cultivating those which they know to be far superior and more ornamental. Crops. — The California wheat crop of 1872 is 75 per cent, greater than that of 1871, and will approximate 30,000,- 000 bushels. The quality is excellent. In Oregon the crop is very good, and also large. THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTUKIST. 39 THE KUEAL HOMES OF CALIFOENIA. BY MES. E. S. CAKB. Of all the external signs of progress shown in any country, none are so sig- nificant as the homes which rej)xesent the standards of comfort and culture to which the masses of the peojile as- j)ire. California has so often been described as the Land of Gold, of Natural Won- ders, of Corn, and of Wine, that this phase of its development seems almost the only one with which the public are not familiar. Tourists who flit hurriedly over the highways of travel rarely get more than a glimpse of the rural resi- dences, for which Nature seems to have been preparing when she rounded the hills and fringed the canons with living tapestries of varied green; and few of our own citizens are aware how fast these are multiplying at all the points within easy access of the business cen- tres of our population. Until very recently the eastern idea of country life among us has corres- ponded to the character which the Cali- fornian Pindar recently gave to the "Argonauts of '49," and not even the princely hospitalities at Belmont and other places have removed the impres- sion that our homes are the creations of sudden wealth, rather than the growths of a deliberate purpose and love of rural life. While we believe the great want of California is more of the sentiment which attaches to the hearth-stone, it is true that from the earliest days there have been home -makers among us ca- pable of a high enjoyment of natural beauty in its development as well as its results — planters rather than purchasers of homes. In making the work better known which would do credit to the rural taste of the oldest portion of the country, and in showing the unexam- pled facilities for it afforded here, in the diversity of surface, climates, and productions, we hope to do a needed service. Fair Oaks, ihe Home of Hon. T. H. St'lby. (See frontispiece.) The name of this lovely region indi- cates its chief characteristic. The missionary fathers, who always found the right places to build in, pitched upon the Santa Clara Valley as one of their centres, planting there the Olive, Vine, and Palm. On the right, as you enter it from San Francisco, the Coast Range rises in picturesque ridges, clothed at the top with the giant Red- wood; and on the left, above the blue waters of the Bay, and above many lesser peaks, the cone of Mt. Diablo stands clear cut against the horizon. One regrets not to have seen this valley when deer and antelope browsed its herb- age, and the procession of the seasons was over a flower-carpet more gorgeously colored than even Mr. Ruskin's word- painting could describe. Not to see it now in the tender green of sj)ring, or later in the golden i^rime of harvest, is a sin for which there can be no excuse. If we can imagine Mr. James' "soli- tary horseman" set down at any j^oint on the county road between Millbrae and Menlo Park, he would fancy him- self in the oldest and best cultivated portions of the United States. The ex- cellent roads, high tillage and amjole conveniences of the farms, the sleek cattle in the pastures, and, above all, the frequent glimpses of stately residences peeping from among the trees, give an expression of finish and repose to this district not exceeded by that of the Connecticut River Valley. It would be difficult for him to believe all this the work of less than twenty years. 40 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. The Pulgas Rancho, — which, begin- ning at San Mateo Creek, included Menlo Park on its southern boundary — twelve miles long by three in width, was the first land for which a United States patent was issued. Upon it we find Beluiontj the country homes of Messrs. Hayward, Parrott, Atherton, Latham, and other citizens of San Francisco, with many of more moderate cost and pretensions, which are occu- pied throughout the year. The Selby homestead, four hundred and fifty acresi-in, extent, is one of the oldest improvements upon the natural park which once occupied the level floor of the valley. Two species of Oak — Quercus agrifolia, and Q. Sonomensis — show here some of the most admirable forms and grouj)ings of this family of trees, and are the frame-work of the ornamental plantations. A magnificent specimen guards the entrance from the county road. Thence by grandly sweeping cui-ves we approach the house through close avenues of Finns insig- nis, IMonterey Cypress and Gum trees; but so many of the native Oaks remain as to give these avenues a dignity far be- yond their years. At Christmas they were bright with the scarlet berries of the Holly, a native also, and of unusual size and luxuriance. Bordering the avenues are many fine young conifers, Pines, Spruces, Sequoias, etc., which have received no water since the first year after planting. The crowning beauty of the place is TJie Lawn, whereon the faii'est of fair Oaks, draped with Ivy, cast their soft shadows upon the velvet turf. Art could not heighten the efi'ect of their grouping — close enough for shelter, open enough for cheer. A single jet of water, which falls into a wide circu- lar basin — a mirror framed in flowers, reflecting the Bpinj tops of the Pines and the feathery plumes of tropical grasses — is almost the only atttempt at ornament. The suggestions of Nature have been respected here, and the views from the windows are all characterized by simplicity and breadth. Choice trees and shrubs are found, but not obtruding upon the lawn, and there has been no attempt to change the nat- ural surface. No ugly cairn, misnamed a "rockery," suggests an Irishman and a cart. You get a glimpse here and there of an orchard, just where an or- chard should be placed to be daily enjoyed by a family. With these surroundings, the house and outbuildings are all in keeping. A roomy and commodious gothic cottage, with a wide veranda over which Roses and flowering Vines are trained, ex- presses comfort, ease, and refinement without ostentation. Large estates and establishments are sure to make slaves of their owners, and unless one be wise the cost and care of living is greatly increased in the country. Of Mr. Selby's four hundred and fifty acres, less than ten are in the home grounds, and eight"in the orch- ard. Apples, Pears, Cherries, Plums of the best varieties, Ajoricots and Nec- tarines, Figs and Almonds, jn-oduce not less than fifteen hundred bushels an- nually. The small fruits have a j)lace also. All the rest of the land is either under the plow, or used for pasturage of thirty horses and twenty cows with which the farm is stocked. The sales of wheat have amounted to $20,000, not counting the present crop of some $3,000 worth on hand. The stock, though not fancy, is of the best. The whole is surrounded with a squir- rel-tight fence, and an excellent road leads from the house entirely around the property. There is a driving-course THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 41 for the training of horses raised upon the farm. The barn, poultry -house, etc., are models of convenience, and no expense has been spared to secure the best results by the best methods. There is a Eucalyptus-tree near the house, which has been planted nine years, fifty feet high and two feet in diameter. Pine trees send up leaders three and four feet in a single season. The Fig trees have borne almost since their first planting, and were the ad- miration of the horticultviral experts, Messrs. Wilder and Downing, who vis- ited the State three years ago. The Almond orchard is one of the sights to be remembered when covered with its blooming promise of fruit. All this proves thoroughness of cultivation. The experiments of the rich are often costly failures, which discourage similar attempts even upon a small scale. Here is a home kept for pleasure, and not profit, which would be an ample fortune to one less favored than its owner, and upon which he might depend for an ample support were all other resources to fail. Taking it for all-in-all, it is a representative home, and its Argonaut, who found the Golden Fleece, has proved over again "that it is the soli- tude and freedom of the family home in the country which constantly pre- serves the purity of the nation and invigorates its intellectual powers." NEGLECTED FLOWERS. There are several beautiful garden- flowers, though easy of culture, that re- ceive but little attention at the hands of our chief colonial cultivators. Among these may be mentioned the Balsam, which is one of the gayest and most charming flowering - plants, either for border or pot culture. We rarely see it in our gardens, and more rarely still at our horticultural exhibitions. When well grown, the Balsam is graceful in outline, perfectly pyramidal in shape, clothed with delicate and elegant foli- age, and bearing a profusion of richly- tinted blossoms. They can, moreover, be grown as small window-plants, or as good- sized, handsome bushes for the borders; they also look remarkably well when grown in six-inch pots, and bloom- ed for decorative dinner - table plants, being particularly beautiful by gas- light. The mode of culture we have ourselves pursued, with success, is as follows : First of all, choosing a good, rich, leaf-mold soil, to which sand should be added, and the whole well mixed to- gether ; it is then advisable to sow in pots, which must be plunged in a cu- cumber-frame with slight bottom -heat, being careful not to cover the seed too deeply — not more than a quarter of an inch at most. Care must be used not to over -water; and when the plants have made their second leaves, they should be potted off into rich compost, using five -inch pots, which are sufliciently large. They will need care in potting- off, the Balsam being very susceptible of injury; and they should never re- ceive a check, for if they do, they will not attain to large size. After potting- off, plunge them again into the frame or pit, and allow them plenty of light. The bottom -heat necessary is from seventy to eighty degrees. Judicious shadiiig will, of course, be required, and constant at- tention as regards watering. The young plants will then grow very raj^idly, and commence to branch out freely. Di- rectly the pots become filled with roots, they must be shifted at once into eight or ten-inch pots, using good rich loam. Some of them will, by this time, need training, the lower branches being brought down to cover the top of the 42 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. pots ; this will require to be carefully performed. When very large specimens are wished for, a still further potting will have to be resorted to, two sizes larger pats being chosen; or they can be planted out in rich and somewhat protected beds. The first blossoms should be picked off, to-allow the jDlants to make size ; for the Balsam is a rapid grower, and well -furnished plants can be obtained in a short space of time, if due care and attention be given. To se- cure a successional disjilay, it is abso- lutely necessary to sow three times, at intervals of six weeks or so, ^vhen a con- tinuous bloom may be secured for six months of the year. Plants cultivated in pots are much the best, plunged while gi'owing, and until they are wanted for decorating windows, rooms, green- houses, &c. Almost everyone can grow the Balsam, if he should be so minded ; and they will repay any cultivator for the care and attention he may devote to them. One well grown and bloomed plant set between two ferns, in the drawing-room window, has a delight- fully cool and elegant effect* — Melbourne Times. ON WATERING. BY E. J. HOOPER. People are apt to think that when the garden looks dry it wants water, and they are doing good in administering that element; but, self-evident as this may seem to be, the benefit is not quite so positive as it may appear. On the other hand, there is a ver}^ great risk of doing serious injuiy. How can this be ? will be the ready inquiry. Plants require that the soil should be moist; when it is dry, the use of water moistens it ; therefore, watering must be beneficial, and the oftener we water, the more benefit we confer. This seems plausible enough; but is just these so often rcpraled water- ings that do so much mischief. The climate of California is a very un- certain one as to rains, even in the rainy season, and parfeiculai'ly in either its commencement or ending. There- fore watering is necessary, not only during the hot, dry weather in our spring, summer and fall months, but sometimes even when verging upon winter, or taj^ering oif into summer. But we are now speaking of the hottest weather in summer. We will suppose that a garden gets a tolerable sprink- ling every evening — enough, in fact, to saturate tlie surface, which then looks cool and comfortable. Next day, the sun causes the evaporation of this moisture, and the ground at the surface, being as it were made into a pudding by the drip-drip of the water, becomes baked into pie when the sun has drawn ofi" the fluid. In fact, the surface be- comes what is familiarly called caked. Now, this is repeated night after night, by these diibbling waterings ; and the consequence is, that the ^ole mass of earth gets caked or baked hard; it be- comes thoroughly dry just below the surface, and, if drought continues (which it does of course in our summer), as far down as the roots grow — a very natural result — the plants languish if they do not die, their decadence in or exit from this " changing scene " being certainly chiefly caused by the heat of the sun, acting on their languid, droop- ing frames. What should be done in such a case ? Why, first, and above all, give uji the practice of watering every evening. Break up the surface with a short dig- ging-fork ; give a thorough soaking, which, of course, must be done toward night — a cloudy sky (which, however, THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 43 occurs but seldom and only in some part of our year) favors the operation during the day ; next morning lioe the surface liglitly with a small, or Dutch hoe ; do this as often as you can after- ward for some time, instead of water- ing. Repeat the soaking after a week, or more, but continue, if possible, by all means, the hoeing. Thus will the whole garden be invigorated, and what was before tending toward a desert will "blossom as the Rose." Besides caking and eventually dry- ing the soil, slight surface waterings, if continued, encourage surface roots. This is encouraging them to place themselves in the worst possible condi- tion under the circumstances. They may drink in a little of the water ap- plied at night, it is true, but the mid- day sun scorches and paralyzes them, and the efforts of the plant to produce them is thrown away. It is of some importance what kind of water is applied. Soft water is to be preferred to hard — and by common consent it is adjudged to be the best. It will always be better, too, if the chill, supposing it to be very cold from the hj'drant, should be taken ofi', by allow- ing it to stand some time in tubs in the air. In some cases, in very small lots or gardens, the benefit will be increased greatly, by watering with diluted liquid manure. lieal guano is good, also, for the purpose here referred to. Plants for Vases. — When cottage grounds are of sufficient size, a hand- some vase of fair proportions, mounted on an appropriate pedestal, is always a pleasing object, especially when filled with healthy, suitable plants ; and I have seen rustic vases formed of twigs and branches, with the base surrounded by Ivy, when the idea of fitness to the place was unquestioned. The hand- somest vase I ever saw was of medium size, with a vigorous specimen of lius- sellia juncea in the centre, and trailing over the edge was Gnaphalium lanafam, intermingled with the delicate stems of Ampdoiwis Veitclii. The slender, thread-like steips of the main plant were covered with a profusion of scarlet tubular flowers, hanging over, partly covering a few AUerncDttliemsyvith. richly colored leaves. I recollect a pair of broad, yet very shallow, vases situated on either side of one of our finest resi- dences near Philadelphia, and, although many months have passed since I last saw it, yet the picture is as fresh in my mental vision as if but yesterday. The ornaments were not two feet high, and were j^laced upon the ground without pedestals. The surface of one was completely covered with the metallic leaves of an Echeveria — the other with a very dwarf Allernanthera. Around the base of each was a bed of some large-leaved Ivy, encircled with a ring of the choice variegated variety. — Jusiah Soopes. ♦ PEOGEESSIVE AGEICULTUEE. BY WILLIAM H. YEOMANS. There is a great necessity for a recon- sfrucied agriculture in many sections of our country. It makes but little differ- ence what the latitude is, there are cer- tain general conditions that are always the same, and the result of particular farming operations will always be the same. Thus continued cropj^ing, with but little or no return of fertilizing ma- terial to the soil, will sooner or later l^roduce a state of infertility, and there- fore necessitate an amendment of the soil before successful farming opera- tions can be pursued. In this consists the somewhat deplorable condition of 44 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. the southern agriculture. Too little re- gard has been had to the ruauufacturc, accumulation and apj^lication of fertiliz- ing material to the soil, so that it is in many places so reduced as to produce only niinimum crojos. This ought not so to be, as it is an evidence of retro- gressive rather than progressive agricul- ture. The man "who attempts to culti- vate extensive fields wanting in fertility is laboring in vain; he can hardly expect even a return for his labor, saying noth- ing of any profits that he ought to re- ceive ; and yet, notwithstanding a full knowledge of this fact, men will labor on year after year, and perhaps attri- bute their want of success to some peculiarity of the season, or some at- mospheric changes which they can not control. Does not this state of things, then, prove the necessity of a change in practical agriculture ? And, if so, what change is required ? For one thing, it may be said that no man should undertake the cultivation of any crop until he is prepared to give the ground ujDon which the same is to be cultivated a sufficient dressing of some sort of manure to warrant a crop that will not only repay for all the labor expended, but will also furnish a good profit on the investment. It requires no argument to satisfy any person that , no more labor is required to produce a maximum than a minimum crop ; the only difference consists in additional labor at harvesting time, which, under such conditions, most persons are will- ing to give. Now, although commercial fertilizers are very valuable to the farmer, years of experience have proven the fact that for all ci'ops, and for keep- ing a soil in excellent condition, there is nothing better than animal manvire, mixed perhaps with organic matter; the tendency of this is to render the soil more porous, and so capable of ad- mitting a free passage of the air, which not only tends to assist fertilization by means of the gases which it contains, but also to keep the soil in dry seasons more moist, by means of insensible de- posits ; while, on the contrar}', the tend- ency of mineral and inorganic manures is to compact the soil, rendering the same more difficult of penetration by the roots, as well as difficult of cultiva- tion. One of the first requirements, then, in thelineoi progresm re agriculture, is, that each and every tiller of the eoil should inaugurate some system by which the fertility of his fields may be restor- ed, and not only that, but that it be raised to such a degree as to be able to produce maximum crops. This, of ne- cessity, will require some time and patience, and may be accomplished in different ways, one of which is by the saving of everything that possesses fer- tilizing elements, and which frequently is allowed to go to waste, and applying the same to the land. But the waj'S and means must be reserved for other articles. — llie Rural Alahamian. Arkanoement of Cut Flowers. — The London Gardener saj-s that of all the various mistakes made by persons in ar- ranging flowers, the commonest is that of j)utting too many into a vase; and next to that, is the mistake of putting too great variety of colors into one bouquet. Every flower in a group should be clearly distinguishable and determinable without pulling the nose- gay to pieces; the calyx of a clove Pink should never be hid by being plunged into the head of the white Phlox, how- ever well the colors may look. Sweet Peas never look so well in the hands as they do upon the boughs over which they climb, because they can not be THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. carried witliout crowding them ; but put them lightl}- into a vase with an equal number of Mignonette; or rather, ornament a vase half full of Mignonette, with a few blossoms of sweet Peas, and you get a charming effect, because you follow the natural arrangement by avoiding crowding of the blooms, and putting them with the green foliage which they want to set them ofif. Few people are aw'are, until they try it, how easy it is to spoil such a joleasing com- bination as this; a jDiece of Calceolaria, scarlet Geranium, or blue Salvia, would ruin it effectually. Such decided colors as these require to be gTouped in an- other vase, and should not even be placed on the table with sweet Peas. They also require a much larger pre- ponderance of foliage than is wanted by flowers of more delicate colors. It is unquestionably difficult to resist the temptation of "just putting in" this or that flower, because " it is such a beau- ty;" a beauty it may be — and so may be an Apricot — but it would be out of place in a basin of green-j)ea soup ! There is at least one proper place for every flower; then let every flower be in its proper place. THE COLOKADO DESERT AS AN IN- LAND SEA. Could the Colorado Desert be again filled with water? It is an interesting- question. From the Gulf of California, it is probably an imi^ossibility. The gradual silting up of the old gulf -bed at the mouth of the river, and the drift of sand by the wind, have interposed a barrier too extensive to be easily re- moved. By turning the Colorado River into the desert it might be accomplished. The project has for years been discuss- ed, of taking enough water from the river to irrigate a stretch of fertile land. Vol. III.— 7. alluvial deposit, found at the southern end of the desert ; but the idea of going further than this, of diverting the river into the desert, and forming a large fresh-water lake, seems never to have been broached. Nature, unassisted, is now attempting this. The drift of sand, through the prevailing western wind, is from the desert toward the east. This drift has kept the river walled in upon the east side of the valley, and has ap- parently constantly forced it further in that direction. Could that desert be refilled with water — converted from dry, hot sand to an inland lake — the very heat which is reflected from the barren mountain- sides around would be a power of good instead of evil. The constant evapora- tion w'ould render heat latent which is now active, thus lowering the annual temperature very perceptibly. This low-ering of temperature alone, even if unaccompanied by an increase of moist- ure in the air, would give a greater rain- fall by the more perfect condensation which it would cause. But the evajDor- ation from the surface of the lake would materially augment the supply of rain- currents, thus acting in a double man- ner— a decrease of temperature and an increase of moisture from precipitation. These rain -currents w'ould also meet with less difficulty in making their way against the ocean winds — as these winds, caused largely by the heat of the de- sert, would be less violent — and would, therefore, with more certainty and reg- ularity, deposit their supply of moist- ure over the plains of Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and San Diego. "When it is considered that every additional inch of rain is worth millions of dollars to these southern counties, the value of such a change in quantity and certainty of fall may be readily appreciated, — Overland Monthly for January. 46 THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. "A GEAIN OF MUSTARD." I was one of the least of the small, small things Which from our' Father's footstool springs — But a little seed, that was wafted away By the frosty winds of an autumn day, Till I sank at last in a narrow cell. Where withered leaves above me fell. It was dark and drear in that little sjiot, And I felt myself a thing of nought, As through each long, long winter day Alone, inanimate, I laj'. The sighing winds swejDt wailing near, And through their plaint I seemed to hear These words : " A sparrow can not fall, Unnoticed by the Lord of all." Then why should I, a little seed. Sleep in the ground without His heed ? For One, who likened such as me To "Faith," while in his ministry, Inspired the vital germ within. Till the genial spring, with dewy wing. And warm, bright, sunny hours. Awoke again, o'er hill and plain. The dormant leaves and flowers, I felt unfold my shroud of mold. My tiny leaves expand To stalk of green with foliage sheen, Among that flowering band; A golden crown then bow'd me down. And for this blessing given I waft above, with breath of love. Sweet fragrance unto heaven. Beta. San Fkancisco, January 27th, 1873. IVY FOE DRAWING-EOOMS. A •writer in Hearth and Home says : The trailing Ivy is certainly among the most beautiful drawing-room decora- tions. Its dark green leaves harmon- ize well with all other colors likely to surround it, and its graceful branches render even square windows and frames beautiful. Six years ago a sprig of Ivy was brought from Abbotsford to Mrs. Chas. Palmer, of Brooklyn, and it now graces the arch of the folding doors between the parlor and third room of her lovely home. "When first brought, this j)rec- ious sprig was rooted in water, and then planted in the garden, where it re- mained till it had grown large enough to be brought into the house, Eveiy spring, the shoots grown during the winter are carefully cut off, and the branches tied loosely together. The whole vine, so tied, is planted in good soil, and fastened to the garden fence, there to remain, through the summer months. Mrs. Palmer has now two vines of about equal length, which are trans- planted into large i:)ots every fall. Each leaf is then rubbed on both sides with sweet oil, and after the pots are put in place, one on each side of the folding doors, the vines are careful]}' trained, and secured by strings and tacks to the wood-work. The branches of the vines on the opposite sides of the arch are in- terlaced as they meet, so that no divis- ion is apparent. The earth in the pots is watered daily. Mrs. Palmer oils the leaves of both her large vines in three or four hours, by simply moistening her fiugers in oil, and lightly rubbing each leaf on both sides at the same time. * She is amply repaid by the entire absence of mould or whiteness from the leaves, and the fresh, vigorous appearance of the plant. Trained over windows, doors, or pic- tures, the Ia^ always jDi'oduces a^fine effect. For decorations on a small scale, vines may be grown by simply immers- ing the stems in small vials of water carefully secured to the frame to be or- namented. Indeed, by a judicious placing of a number of these, so that each root may have its own vial, a fine effect of luxuriance may be produced. The tops of long champagne -glasses, which have lost their stands, may be substituted for vials, and the efiect greatly improved by placing either in suitable spruce-wood holders. THE CALIFOENIA HOETICULTURIST. 47 The Madrona Teee. — Branch -with leaves and fruit of the MadroGa (Arhuius Menziesii), haK natural size. Also flowers of A. Ilenziesii, half natural size. THE MADROSA tree* BY DR. A. KELLOGG. Ant. "Before thee stands this fair Hesperides With golden fruit." — Pericles, Act 1st, Scene 1st. Who will solve for us that most mar- velous sylvan mystery of the Pacific Coast? — we allude to the almost uni- yersal neglect of the magnificent evei'- green Madrona, an ornamental forest tree, unsurpassed for gTandeur or varied beauty. * Arbutus Memiesii. Let us consider its just claims for a moment. We have at our bidding a lofty tree, fifty to one hundred feet in height; as seen in native haunts on the alluvial lands of the coast, or amid other forest trees, we behold it straight and trim as the most fastidious could wish — when young, easily domesticated, trimmed and trained to any form desir- able ; at home on foggy coasts with fierce winds, diy' hillsides, or barren and burning peaks; ever clad in foliage of living green, equal to the most ma- jestic Magnolia. Other trees may sleei? 48 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. in quiet, waiting the return of the wikl song-bird, and the renewing breath of spring; but love's highest emblems never sleep ; ever on the alert, she is awake with the new year, bringing gifts to the dear ones, and good to all living. Laden with shagreened orange and red berries, the most beautiful the eye ever beheld — surpassing the choicest strawberries — sweet, nutty, and delicious to the taste, she sub- tropically overlaps the rolling year with ceaseless glory. Anon the sweet breath of her flowers — now in bloom — greet the sense, fragrant and exhilarating as odors wafted from the Happy Isles; the busy bee and the but- terfly sip their nectar, but no noisome insect infests this charmed tree. The white and blushing blooms peep over the dark green background, crowding their clusters into view, or bashful and half concealed, the whiter and purer bells hide beneath the shade. It is thus she modestly droops her pretty heath- like clusters, cheering the winter months. How neat at all seasons ! Changing her dress as custom requires— yet al- ways elegant, caressing the eye, ever suing for admirers— exfoliating «bark, or laying off a few superfluous leaves in the hot months of July and August — the most strikingly picturesque tree of all the groves — limbs now out fresh, smooth, and soft, with exquisitely fresh- ened green, tender and delicate as a maiden's skin — fair tablets to carve "Ro- salind" upon; the very sight of which is like inspiring a sweet zephyr just astir, breezing from out some cool, shady grove, when the traveler is faint and weary. Even the fading foliage falls un- obtrusively down as comes "still even- ing on" in twilight dews. "Fading foliage!" did I say? Nay; the beautiful leaves brighten, like celestial hopes above, into every shade — to hallowed gold and royal purple, in exchange for the natural green of earth. So, also, the sea-green surface beneath yields to a softened, mellow white, no artist could cease to admire. With such a sheen, the enlivened shade is by far the most cheerful that ever bore that name be- fore ; myriads of bright and ga}' re- flectors spiriting it away — meanwhile, shedding their "sweetness on the de- sert air." Our feet never pressed her half-dismantled robe without a feeling akin to entering the neatest ladies' j^ar- lor in the land. Instinct with the feelings of the Great Chief, we are fain to echo the eloquent apostrophe * * * "The earth is my mother— I will re- pose on her bosom." With uncovered head, and due reverence in the pres- ence of orderly Nature, we areoftj^rone to tarry beneath the beautiful boughs ; and, may we say it? alwaj^s leave with the lingering regrets of a lover. Re- tui-ning anon, behold the sky -green bark changed to deep orange, burning red, or sober cinnamon brown, out of due respect to autumn, and the fashion of the season. How strange the view! What marvel of moods ! Fascinating by every art that coulcl please, with evei'-varying beauty. Could imagina- tion, fiction, or fancy, portray to itself a sylvan object more wonderful, more chaste, or more charming ! Consider again, that it sink deep into thy soul — its broad magnanimous canopy of large, thick, rich, shining green, and tropical foliage — vivid semblance of the Graxd 'M^G:solul^ (Magnolia cjrandijlora) of the South — laden, as it were, with a mass of burning berries, as we have seen it this season — its smooth, red, naked limbs, like the native red man, giant of the woods, stalking the forest Avith majestic tread — and you have before you the handsomest tree of (he West. Spare us, dear reader, the merited allusion to its timber. Ghosts of de- THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTUEIST. 49 parted saw-mills, and vaudal skeletons with axe in hand, loom up from the other place to haunt the evening of our daj'S. We would rather sit on Mad- rofia's knees — that often resemble those of the deciduous Cj'press of the East — and teach your children the wisdom that shall reverence sylvan use and beau- ty, that they may offer betimes some acceptable, incense of affection for the native forest trees of the land. True, this tree, like others we could name, does not bear transplanting from the wild state well, from lack of the usual number of fibrous roots of many other trees ; but it germinates easily and grows freely from the seed. "Why, then, is it not more cultivated?" The nurser^'men reply, "Because, there is no demand." These and other trees and seeds should be put in the ground as soon as possible after the firnt rains. For those not familiar with this tree, a very inadequate sketch, made by the writer many years ago, may be seen in the 6th volume of the Pacific Railroad Reports, page 23d. KECENT FRENCH DISCOVERIES IN HORTICULTURE, ETC. A correspondent sends us the follow- ing translation from " Le Bleu Public," of Dijon in Burgundy, of the 21st of April : " An agriculturist has discovered, it is said, the means of preserving the grape- vines from their most dangerous enemy, the Phyloxera, a sort of vine-fretter or vine-grub. It seems by mixing soot with the earth around the roots of the vine, the insect is paralyzed and is killed. Secondly, a discovery curious enough has been made recently. An agriculturist has observed that by watering vegetables and fruit trees with a solution of sulphate of iron, the most astouishing results are obtained. Beans have gained 60 per cent, on their ordinary size, and what is better their taste is much more savory. Among fruit trees, the pear-tree is most benefited by that process of watering. Third, the Bevue d' Economie liarale announces that a new process of early vegetation has been tried with the greatest success by a horticulturist of Chatillon, France, who, besides the heating of the interior air in the green- house (hot-house) heat also the earth itself, the hot-bed on which the plants grow. For this, he establishes at a certain depth pipes through which steam circu- lates constantly. The steam penetrates the interior of the earth by means of valves opening from place to place. Such pijDCs are from five to ten centi- metres (from two to four inches) depth by the side of the plant beds of straw- berries, flowers and "graminces;" from fifteen to twenty centimetres (about six to eight inches), for fruit trees. The earth thus artificially heated j^ro- duces vegetables and fruit with an econ- omy of half the time necessary when the interior of the greenhouse only is heated. Thus, every one could see at this ag- riculturist's, early in April, strawberries that had blossomed, formed their fruits and ripened in fifteen days ; violets that had developed their flowers in ten days; asparagus and artichokes which have grown and been gathered in thirty -five days. Finally, within only forty-five days, dwarf cherry-trees have budded, blos- somed, and brought forth fruits in a l^erfect state of ripeness." This wonderful process of early vege- tation is new as to its application to gardening. But it is taken from nature. It is well known that in several thermal stations, and especially at Aix, in France, the gardens which are near or above the thermal fountains, produce early fruit and vegetables (primeurs) in winter ; the earth being heated by wa- ter-steam, the heat of which raises to eighty degrees centigrade. — Maryland Farmer. 50 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. FOREST -PLANTING, A SOURCE OF "WEALTH. BY PROFESSOR EZRA S. CARR. In tlie November number of this journal, the rapidity with Avhich our country is being disforested was shown from departmental statistics ; in this I desire to call public attention, and particularly that of owners of large bodies of land in California, to the im- portance of forest-planting, as a source of futiire wealth. The value which the crowned heads of Europe have put upon their forests is well known ; the strin- gent, and, as it might seem, almost in- human laws made for their protection, are the result of a wise and far-reaching policy, far more creditable than our national indifference. In this, as in so many other things, with us, the neces- sary legislation will follow enlightened public opinion, itself the effect of indi- vidual examples and successes. The first laws made in England for the preservation of forests (not to be confounded with laws for the preserva- tion of game), were made by Queen Elizabeth, in consequence of orders given to the commanders of the Spanish Armada : viz., in the event of conquest, to destroy the English forests, and especially that of Dean. Now Dean was, like Windsor and Sherwood, an appanage of the crown, filled with noble Oaks of such excellent quality for ship -building, that its de- struction was equivalent to cutting off the right arm of the nation. Luckily for England and for us, the Spanish axes did not accomplish the mischief they intended ; the great Oaks greAv on unharmed until the time of Charles I., who reduced their numbers from 105,- 537 to some 30,000 ; one of the crimes against the English people for which a sad reckoning-day was to come. One of the first movements of the Restoration was the re-i:)lanting of 11,000 acres; and the forest of Dean, sixty-four square miles in extent, is now fully recovered. Windsor Forest, once 120 miles in circuit, has dwindled to about fifty -six, of which the Little Park, immediately connected with the castle, containing 500 acres, and the Great Park contain- ing 4,000, are the most imj^ortant. It is well stocked with game, and contains choice plantations of exotic trees and shrubs. The glory of Sherwood, once so famous in the legendary history of England, has departed, but it still con- tains 1,500 acres of very old oak timber, and within its ancient limits are found many interesting trees. The New Forest in Hampshire, originally ninety miles in circumference, also contains timber of great value. The history of Arboriculture in Eng- land, both in the Royal Forests and the seats of the nobility, is of great prac- tical interest to us, because the kind of trees there fovmd of most value for timber, fuel, and the various purposes of the arts, will all flouftsh in a large part of the United States, and sovie of the best of them are indigenous here. In the case of the Royal Forests, the records have been carefully kept for a long jDCriod, while the local traditions of some historic trees extend back to a remoter time than that of Robin Hood or Heme the Hunter. They are under the general con- trol of the Crown Commissioner of Woods and Forests, and employ a small army of officials of graded rank ; Lord Wardens, Deputy Wardens, Verderers, Woodwards, etc., who, it is said, de- plete the royal revenue, and contract the ancient limits. It is comforting to know that they are subject to some of the evils incident to public domains THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 51 elsewhere; that squatters thrive where poachers perish without anybody being- to blame. But notwithstanding these drawbacks, the Royal Forests contribute no inconsiderable part in the revenues of the crown. The grandest tree of these forests is the Oak, the tree which, living or dead, contributes so much to the beauty of the Englishman's home, and which may be said to have given him the suprem- acy of the sea. It is believed that an Oak after reaching a circumference of four feet, gains a solid foot every year, and it is on this basis that the profits of the plantations, as timber, are estimated. But the thinnings are also very valuable for poles, posts, hurdles, etc. Evelyn estimated the total profits of 1,000 acres of well matured oak timber, at £670,000. The relative value of the Oak has changed somewhat by the in- troduction of foreign trees of a more rapid growth. Immense plantations of the Norway Pine, Scotch Fir and Larch, have superseded them in the north of England and Scotland. Forest -planting, in Great Britain, commenced about the j-ear 1664, through the instrumentality of John Evelyn and the Royal Society. The wide popularity of Evelyn's writings, and his own zeal and enthusi- asm, gave an immense impulse to tree planting in England. Let us see what came of it in a hundred years. One or two instances must sufiice. In the year 1783, the Duke of Gordon sold his plantation of Scotch Fir to Mr. Osborne, of Hull, for ten thousand pounds ster- ling. Mr. Osborne made of it forty- one ships, at a cost of seventy thousand pounds. At the castle a specimen plank is shown from this first harvest, sis feet long by five feet five inches in width. The ground was not then cleared, but left to produce successive crops of timber. At Holkham, the seat of the Earl of Leicester, there is a park of 3,200 acres, ' 'farmed in an admirable manner." The first earl planted one thousand acres of it with aconis of the Qiiercas sessifolia, and lived to witness, with his family, the launching of a noble ship, built from some of the trees, and to see the forest "worth a prince's ransom." The Scotch Pine attains perfection, as timber, at from 150 to 200 years old. It is planted close, and the trees, like those of the great natural forests of Oregon, reach from fifty to sixty feet without a branch, and are from eight to ten feet in circumference. The thin- nings alone are regarded as giving a fair profit on the investment. The relative growth of the different trees used in English plantations, may be seen from a record of actual growth kept by the Marquis of Lansdowue. The trees were planted in the year 1075, on a swampy meadow with a gravelly sub-soil; the measurement was taken in July, 1785: Height Circumference. Name of tree. in feet. ft. and in. Lombardy Poplar.. 60 to 80 4 8 Abele 50 " 70 4 0 Plane 50 " 60 3 6 Acacia (Locust) 50 " 60 2 4 Elm 40 " 60 3 6 Chestnut 30 "50 2 9 Wevmouth Pine . . . 30 " 50 2 5 Cluster " ... 30 " 50 2 5 Scotch Fir 30 " 50 2 10 Spruce " 30 " 50 2 2 Larch 50" 60 3 10 I will not dwell upon the various uses of this timber, or of the calorific value of the different species. But from the " Close grained chestnut wood, of sovereign use For casking up the vine's most ijotent juice," to the tree which only Americans des- pise, Lombardy Poplar, there is not one which we shall not require in California within fifty years, because each is as 52 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. admirably fitted to some special want of the artist or manufacturer, as the Lime is for the most delicate carving, or the Willow for gunpowder. The indigenous trees of the Pacific Coast are the most highly prized, and among the most profitable in Eu- ropean plantations. The nurseries of France, Germany and Italy, are well stocked with our giant Sequoias, our Firs and Pines. Noble avenues of American Plane, and the Liriodendron or Tulip-tree of the Middle States, adorn the cities of central and southern Eu- rope. A few poor specimens of these trees may be seen in private collections in California, but the nurserymen do not propagate them. As yet, there is little demand for anything but quick- growing, showy trees — Monterey Cy- press, Blue Gum and Acacia. All our forest-planting seems tending towards Eucahij)ius culture on a large scale. This seems the greater- pity, because so large a part of the arboreal world is at our command from which to choose. The Cinchona, of South America, would doubtless flourish in some localities in our State ; and China and Japan have many useful trees which could be easily acclimated here. It is only by observing and respect- ing the methods of Nature that men succeed in gaining mastery over her hidden resources. Now, Nature never plants a field or forest with a single species ; she loves an infinite diversity, A plantation of Blue Gum would be an abomination in her sight, and, we may be sure, she has some chosen parasite in reserve with which to destroy it. In Scotland, becaiise Larches were most immediately profitable, they planted more and more Larches, until a fungus came which devoured first their hearts, and then all their ligneous fibres, until nothing was left of them but bark and roots. Then a cry went forth that the Larches were a humbug and a failure, until De Balfour suggested that they had become diseased from overcrowd- ing and overstocking the land. Then it was found that, when the Larch was as- sociated with other trees, the Ash, and the Oak especially, in equal proportion, it was as healthy as ever. Diversified j^lcmtivrj, like diversified farming, will prove the only profitable mode, for California, in the end. A thousand acres planted with a variety of evergreen and deciduous trees with due regard to their habits and economic uses, we believe, would be one of the safest and most permanently profitable investments that could be made uj^on the land. Nor need we wait even a quarter of a century for returns. The Eucalypti, intrinsically valuable in so many respects, make admirable nurses for slower growing and more tender species, and maybe used as soon as this object is accomplished. The rate of their growth and importance in our forestr}^, and of some other exotic trees, will be treated in a subsequent paper. ENGLISH VIEW OF VEGETABLES AND SALADS. The Gardeners' Chronicle, speaking of vegetables for' culinary use, truly says: Neither one nor the other should be washed until thej^ are about to be cooked or eaten. Even Potatoes lose flavor cjuickly after being washed ; so do Carrots and Turnips; while water will ciuickly become tainted in summer in contact with Cauliflowers and Cab- bages, and thus destroy their freshness and flavor. The case is still worse with Salads. If washed at all, it should be only just before they are dressed, and they shoiild be dried and dressed im- THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 53 mediately. Nothing ruins the flavor of vegetables, and renders good salading uneatable, sooner than water hanging about them. If Lettuces are quite clean, they make the best salad unwashed ; but, if washed, the operation should be done quickly, the water instantly shaken out, and leaves dried with a clean cloth. But alas ! how often are they cut and washed in the garden in the morning, and pitched into water in the scullery sink until wanted. Then we are grave- ly asssured that our gardeners can not grow salading like the French ! But what French "artiste" would be mad enough to rinse out his salad juice, then recharge his lettuces and his endives with semi-putrid water? The best prac- tice is simply to remove all superfluous earth by scraping or rubbing, and all rough tops of leaves by cutting. Enough tender leaves may be still left on Cauli- flowers and Broccoli to overlap the flowers. Salad should be sent in from the garden with most of the outside leaves and main root on. The tender leaves are easily tainted and injured by exposure, and if the chief root is cut off short, much of the juice oozes out at the wound. "Where vegetables and salading have to be bought from a town green-grocer, the conditions are alto- gether difi'erent. Not only washing, but soaking often becomes requisite to restore something like pristine crisp- ness. OLD FLOWERING PLANTS. BY F. A. MILLEK. An impression seems to prcA'ail among those who cultivate flowers here, that flowering plants should last forever, and do well. This is unreasonable, and demonstrates that the nature and wants of many plants are not really under- stood. Plants of the garden as well as Vol. III.-8. those of the greenhouse, conservatory, and window, have their time. It is true that, by proper cultivation, all *[:)lants will do well for a much longer period than if neglected; but the time will come when they should be re- placed by new stock. No one would attempt to cultivate the Grape-vine by leaving it entirely to its own chances ; in truth, it is a well- known fact, that it requires a certain amount of skill and experience to culti- vate Grape-vines properly. The same may be said of Currants, Raspberries, Strawberries, and all other useful and ornamental trees and shrubs. People hereabouts expect entirely too much for their money. When applica- tions are made to a florist for a plant, the following queries are made: "Is it evergreen? will it flower all the time? are the flowers fragrant? will it grow up to a big bush?" etc. Now, it is not very often that in any one plant all these qualities are combined. If flowers are desired continually, plants must be selected which will j^roduce flowers at difterent seasons. Some of the most desirable flowering shrubs are not ever- green, and, therefore, they are not looked upon with much favor. All this is wrong, and should be corrected at once. I have often endeavored to convince people, that it is far better to go to the nurseries, and select Roses, for instance, from the op5n groiind for jDlanting during the rainy season ; these will do much better than Roses forced into bloom under glass ; but from my own experience, I can sa}^ that Roses so forced meet with a much better sale, than if taken up from the ground. Some say that they want to see the flowers when they purchase ; I would say to them, go to a responsible florist, and you will not be deceived in the varieties vou select. I would trust a 54 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. respectable florist just as far as I would a respectable druggist. But to the point. You purchase a Chinese Primrose, say, in a four-%icli pot, full of flowers, and in a healthy condition at this time; you may reason- ably expect that it will continue to flower well for about three months longer, when it should be shifted into a five-inch pot. In doing so, only a por- tion of the soil should be removed, and replaced by light sandy loam, mixed with one -quarter old rotten manure. After shifting, water well, and place in a shady place for a week. You may then give it its former sunny position again, and new foliage and new flowers will make their api^earance, and con- tinue to do so for three or four months. At the beginning of next winter, shift again into a six-inch pot, in the same manner as indicated before, and your Primrose will continue to flower during the winter months of 1873 to '74. By this same treatment you may keep it another year, but I advise you to procure, after this second year, young plants again; in fact, I throw away these old plants always, to make room for the more vigorous young plants. Double Chinese Primroses I retain for a num- ber of years, because they produce a greater abundance of flowers when several years old. Primroses, of course, ; should only be cultivated under glass, ip. greenhouses,' conservatories, or win- dows, where they will thrive admirably. The Cineraria is a beautiful flowering plant for winter decoration, but is of still shorter life than the former; yet, under very simple treatment, I have .seen these do well for two years. A Cineraria in bloom now, will continue so for four or five months, after which time it may be set aside in some shady jilace in the open ground. In autumn, take the plant out of the pot, shake ofi" all the soil, and replant in a smaller- sized pot, and for further treatment the same as for the Chinese Primroses, only keeping a little more shaded. How- ever, I would say, that the Cineraria will not do so well in the window as the Primrose, the dry air of the room being rather injurious to it. I have mentioned these plants as ex- amples; but this rule may be applied, to some extent, to most plants cultivated for flowers or foliage. Take, for instance, the Rose, which is known to everybody. In this climate the Rose makes a wonderful growth of wood, most of which, and sometimes all of it, is permitted to remain. The strength of the plant is exhausted in useless wood and foliage, and a very few, if any, good flowers are produced. If this is allowed to go on for several years, the plant becomes actually Avorth- less. If I plant a Rose-bush, I plant it about one inch deeper than it has been growing previously. I cut the main stalk back to within twelve or eighteen inches (according to its strength), of the ground ; and, if a very weak plant, to within six inches, or even less ; the side branches I cut back to two or three sound buds. If planted during the winter months, some very good flowers will be produced in spring following. After the first flowering, and when the new wood is hardened, which is about the month of June, I cut back the new wood to about four or six buds on the main branches, and to two or three strong buds on the side shoots; then stir up the soil, and give a good Avater- ing. The plant will shoot out again, and good flowers will be ])roduced in abundance during the latter part of summer and autumn. This treatment applies more particularly to h^'brid perpetual Roses, such as Geant de Balail- les, Madame Laffaij, etc. THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. 55 Tea Hoses, by proper priming, a little at a time, so as to keej) proper shape and form, -^Nill bloom continually. In order to always keep a fine selec- tion of Eoses, and healthy vigorous plants, I would replace the old stock by new plants every six years, and enrich the soil well every two years. In re- placing old plants by young stock, I would also advise a \erj thorough over- hauling of the ground, adding new soil and enriching it well. Suckers, grow- ing lip from the roots, should always be removed when they first make their ap- pearance. (gaitovial govtfaUo. lEEIGATION. From the earliest periods, man has sought to insure his daily food by rais- ing from the soil those supjolies, which experience taught him were too pre- carious when he solely depended on the exciting though uncertain chase, the scanty and unreliable gleanings of wild forest fiiiits, and the still more un- certain take from the waters ; and he has sought to obtain, by irrigation, that certainty of produce which sad experi- ence taught him could not be relied on while subject to the alternation of sea- sons of drought with those of genial rains, the latter too often supplemented by disastrous floods. We consequently find unmistakable traces of most ex- tensive sj'stems of irrigation in doubt- less the first-jDGopled portions of the Old World. The plains of Assyria and Babylonia are literally covered with im- mense ramifications of canals, which were doubtless used both for irrigation and navigation. Such systems also pre- vail from the remotest antiquity through- out Mesopotamia, Persia, India, China, and others of the most ancient settle- ments of the human race. It is on rec- ord that Egypt has possessed, from 2000 B. c, most extensive systems of can%ls and artificial lakes; in fact, ir- rigation was one of the most ancient ajDplications of science to agriculture, and had been practiced by the ancient Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, and others, from time immemorial . Damascus, located in Syria, is reput- ed to be the oldest city in the world ; its fame is written in the earliest records, and it is celebrated not only for its ruiag- nificence, but for the marvelous fertil- ity of its immediate vicinity, although the country surrounding it was a dreary desert. The character of its surround- ings remains the same to the j)i'^sent day, which is attributable to the practice of irrigation still pursued on that ancient spot of land. The water for this purj)ose is still drawn from the rivers Abana and Pharpar, names noted in Sacred Writ, where Naaman, the leper general, vaunted them above the river Jordan, when told by the prophet Elisha to wash in the latter river, and be clean. The instance of Damascus proves the persistent benefit of the j)ractice. According to the earliest records of China, irrigation has in that empire been utilized to a vast extent. On this continent, the ancient in- habitants of Peru irrigated extensively, and the Spaniards wei'e astonished to find that the Aztecs far surpassed the Europeans in their a^jplication of this aid to agriculture. It has also been found to be in use among many rude tribes in various parts of the world. Irrigation is supposed to have been introduced into Britain, by the Eomans, shortly after their conquest of that island. In England, and on the continent of Europe, a lively interest has of late THE CALIFOnXIA HORT! UI8T. years iK-en evincc« ^ Lombunly. part of Spain, the •ooth of France, and Italy. • and valleys of the 1 / Douro, and otli« rn. are all BivelyBubject. Land under iii.^ tenfold the price of wmiUr land in Ui» immediale vicinity, Init r. In the valley of the l*o, U.! : to be 1,00<»,(K)0 acre* of Und U»tt« watered. Italv. howcTcr, i» ' hm!f tr n tlioa b« dK>«) ■'• t I>nd V%r%^ < of oar t!b' 1 ,.1, country' in K - anythinj,' lik' tion. There a netrWoi ducts and c.' tioiis over ill' have l)cen in exwlonce up centurieK. The jfreat •' Vecchiabia," woh ii. ditiou iu the eloveuth cenlorjr. In 1 . the "Adda." ' ' • - • Lodi, was • . _ canal of " Martewiiia," cxU-utlujiJ f»«r :- dibtancc of i' '- •, «ith maii} side briiucli' ■ I. In HindoHtan, at the prewnt day. lh< whole of the n/^ ••, i>T tmiall grain ctup. is artificially waUnnl. In every part of the Mysore country as well as in otl • is retained or pi ■ of irri^'atiou. The Sultan Tip|KK)<. banks tit bo nm-V the hills, thus i: ^ ^vhich dunn<7 tlie rainy seaMon flow from the hill country, and, iiiHlittd «'f ' lost, are colUcUd into vani riiw... for arrricultural use; and within it last few years, still - i. am) raiuitiod systems o( ^ )»««n constructed by the Britiah Govenimout, and we have met soniewhere witL the statement that there are tenn of th<^! " • sands of reservoira and artificial laL< . :.... ,.j. constructed by dams, of from ontf-bail | or about 1 Uo fit. u( wbcwi. Tb« raalplair San Jiiae con- tinuously imprcs-sed uiwn our lhott|?ht« and menioni-, and we need frr excuse for so often, in these arli the fruit markets, reiterating our to tlie public to use riiH> fruit* (iho ol>- jects of our favorite notice and treat- ment in all our writings, tl»r.»M<:h a n<»w rather exceptionally prolon;; liberal manner, as thr • them freely not only / but their regulatcil enjo^Tnenl help* to remove that which already exista. AH ripe fruits are, al«o, more or lesii nu- tritious. Professor Salisbury, loo, haa clearly domonstrateil tl ' "' suiK'iior to the Potato, i that go to increase the rauscles and the brain of man; and in f:i" ties, it is nearly etjual, \\ swine, or fed raw to that great fricu>l man — the hi" other of our > juice of ripe Grapes has cured epidr: dysentery, and French i " send their dyspeptic \ vineyards to feast freely on their j duce, and they often d- etit from so doing. i occasionally advised the use of "coolini^ acid fruits;" and the ejirli< st wr.' have directed the sugary oius, as 1 for food in convalescence. Famil where fruits are most plentif\il good, and prized as an article «.f .1 food, are most free from disca-so of Hds, and more • y fn»m fevers ' vnA eoni; Most fruits tioB— •♦ tly, Honie in- land lewen the desire for or ftunolAttBg dnnks. The ■< ad M **dil«rat«." and all as •i ; " the fre« adds neutralizing . '* ■ • '^y matters them off 'hrougfa the natural channel^ • a nee t>^ ' nr rlii* ' • • . - vnr, but, we think. man*! be«lth : k!e. oarowB that b> Muin^the ■ hsre yean nnd moie ;i . when ■n of oar »<• found in an«^ • '^•^ «vi« • more ; prnpnga- ( . general, r .A. iluene^rf ^ !it«to on Tah<>ii«n haa the effect to te morr ' ''" *^ . tree ai '' h, cnuflinf in the tree n e^M'-^r, ijfier nnd aoftar«oo''^- k'l-'wn ti; nnd in Um fruit .Nr aiae. o open nnd ccminer texture of fleah, reaponding «■ *%' •h enriier ouit Vft; but the Peneh. Apricot, •inti**,! ' -irscteri .tlnc«i. a: ^-- ortled. This may be aai! '\imire. here inovr war ■'■ But if we aufT- II n rather too ]• in regard to •^ l.v the 1 ac*** JM mIM . . . «i^ , »• ..A. , THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. 67 her ladyship's boudoir. "My dear Charlotte ! where did you get that elegant flower?" " Oh, 'tis a new thing; I saw it at old Lee's ; pretty, is it not?" "Pretty! 'tis beautiful! Its price?" "A guinea ; there was another left." The visitor's horses smoked off to the suburb; a third flowering plant stood on the spot whence the first had been taken. The second guinea was jDaid, and the second chosen Fuchsia adorned the drawing-room of her second ladyship. The scene was repeated, as new comers saw and were attracted by the beauty of the plant. New chariots flew to the gates of old Lee's nursery- gi'ound. Two Fuchsias, young, graceful, and bursting into healthful flower, were con- stantly seen on the same spot in his re- pository. He neglected not to gladden the faithful sailor's wife by the promised gift; but ei'e the flower season closed, three hundred golden guineas clinked in his purse, the produce of the single shrub from the window in "Wapping ; the reward of the taste, decision, skill and perseverance of old Mr. Lee. Cut Flowers. — In cutting flowers for vases or bouquets, it is never well to break them abruptly from the stems, but cut them oft' with scissors or a knife — the latter being the best, as it is less likely to injure the minute pores or tubes of the stems which draw up the moist- ure needed to nourish the flower. If they are gathered while wet with dew, they will keep longer than if cut when the sun shines hotly upon them. If it is desirable to keep them a great while, a pinch of saltpetre and of common salt added to the water will prevent their decay, and also remove all un- pleasant odors from the stems. Boiling water turned upon the stems of faded flowers, and allowed to stand upon them until completely cool, will frequently restore them to freshness. Cut off the stalks for half an inch or so before put- ting them into cool water, which should not be icy cold. A Floral Curiosity. — A wonderful flower is described as existing at Con- stantinople, belonging to the Narcissus family of bulbs. There were three naked flowers on the stalk hanging on one side ; the underneath one was fad- ing, while the two others were in all their beauty. They represented a per- fect humming-bird. The breast, of bright emerald green, is a complete copy of this bird, and the throat, head, beak, and eyes, are a most perfect imi- tation. The hinder part of the body and the two outstretched wings are a bright rose color, one might almost say flesh colored. On the abdomen rests the propagation apparatus, of a deep, dark brown tint, in form like a two- winged gad-fly. The Diadem Pinks. — No flower nov- elty introduced in the past ten years has given so much delight as the Diadem Pink. At first some trouble was ex- perienced from mixed seeds and sorts untrue to name, but now propagators have obtained a strain of true character, and the bloom of perfect plants is un- equalled for its brilliancy by a,nj other plant in the flower-garden. The Diadem Pink is a flower that is so eminently worthy of culture in every garden, we can recommend it for general trial. With us it has done exceedingly well on light, warm soil. They will bear con- siderable manure, applied well -rotted in either the fall or spring. The same treatment given to Sweet- Williams will produce good blooms of this also. — E.r. G8 THE CALirOENIA HOETICULTDRIST. Cross Beeeding of Fishes. — Mr. B. Hanson, of Stavanger, in Norway, has, according to a correspondent of the London Athenannn, accomplished a very novel feat in pisciculture by producing a new hybrid species, a cross between Salmo alpinvs and Sahno eriox, the for- mer species spawning four weeks be- fore the latter. Mr, Hanson's manner of bringing together the spawning ma- turity of the two species is ingenious. When Salmo alpinus has been spawning for some time, Mr. Hanson secui'ed a female fish in an interesting condition, and imprisoned her in a perfectly dark tank, where he left her alone. In like manner Mr. Hanson, as soon as possible, secured the sire of the first couple of Salmo eriox he found in mature condi- tion for spawning, and put him under a similar arrest, and kept a close watch over both until the time of the sire came. In this manner Mr. Hanson succeeded in rearing, with only a loss of one per cent, in his spawning boxes (sui:)plied from a subterranean well which flows with a uniform temperature of about 5^ degrees R''aumur all the year round) a new species, which attains a full development in four years, and is remarkable for its exceeding vigor and wildness in water, and its palatableness on the table. Mr, Hanson entertains sanguine hopes of this species becoming self -productive in course of time, con- trary to all experience of hybrid fish, because he has already caught in his pond several individuals with roe in them. Butchering Youkg Trees. — Young shade trees on the outskii-ts of the city are being horribly hacked and butchered by parties who have the cheek to call the operation "pruning," If there is no provision made in the code for the severe punishment of parties guilty of such vandalism, the Commissioners have failed to fulfill their whole duty. The cork-barked elm, naturally a symmetrical tree of sturd}' growth, needs but little trimming at any time, and to witness an unskillful operator slashing away right and left with knife and saw among its shai:)ely branches promiscuously, is a species of barbarity and a sacrifice of the beautiful which should be frowned down eveiywhere. This promiscuous, slashing process to which handsome young trees are too frequently sub- jected, seems to be done with a view of producing a tree to resemble as nearly as possible a gooseberry bush placed on the end of a long pole. The process is simple tree torture, and the parties ex- ecuting the miserable work apj^ear to possess about as keen and delicate a sense and appreciation of ordiiiaiy good taste and useful art as a pack-mule might be expected to manifest. — San Joaquin Independent. A Timely Hint. — In transplanting tomatoes, cabbages and tobacco plants, prepare a tub of manure water, and thicken it to the stiffness of mush by stirring in rich garden mold ; dip the root of the plant in this paste before setting in the ground ; j^ress the earth firml}' around the root, and sjprinkle with manure water. The grandest forest of pine lumber in California, containing white, yellow and sugar pine, cj'press and arbor -s-itffi, and other trees valuable for timber, lies between Susan Yalley and Pit Eiver. Wild flax, which appears as if it might be tamed, has been found in the Klamath Lake countiy. ii^ 70 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. dairy deserves more than a passing no- tice. First of all, the manager, Mr. A. F. Green, is a master of liis business, and detects the qualities of an animal from its points, as uneningly as Prof. Owen would reconstruct its skeleton from a single bone. His large exj^eri- ence and careful oversight, with the liberal outlay which has been made to secure the best and most economical methods of housing, feeding, and tend- ing the stock, have brought the gross proceeds of the milk sales to $7,000 per month. The stock, mostly graded Short-Horns and Devons, is carefully bred, and shows constant improvement. The best English dairymen prefer half or quarter -bred stock to the full-blood, and our experience in California seems to coincide with theirs. No inconsider- able profit is derived from the sale of calves, and cows turned off for fatten- ing. Looking at the photograph, the long line of buildings seen upon the railroad to the right of the mansion is the dairy, which consists of a centre and two enormous wings. As you enter the first, you see huge vats filled with running water; these are the cooling tubs into which the milk-cans are plunged as soon as they are filled; in the rear is a large apartment where they are washed, aired, and dried. The wings contain a double row of cattle-stalls; an iron track runs through the centre, along which the loads of cut-fodder, oil-cake, etc., is conveyed and thrown into the feeding-troughs. Ventilation is so per- fect, and cleanliness so thoroughly at- tended to, that there is less to offend the most fastidious sense here, with 500 cows under one roof, than in the barn of an ordinary farmer. North of the daily is the farm-house, a very comfortable and convenient home for the twenty-five men employed in milking and taking care of the animals. The building to the left, near the en- trance, is occupied by the manager. Between the dairy and the bay, Mr. Mills has recently inclosed with a levee four hundred and fifty acres of salt marsh, which is now covered with/res/i water. It is to be hoped that this cost- ly experiment in reclamation will result as favorably as the Duke of Bedford's, who pumped 18,000 acres dry with steam-engines, and made of it the most profitable farm in England. The Millbrae Mansion House occujiies a site chosen by Mr. Olmstead after much careful study of the property, and answers more than any building we have seen. East or West, Mr. Downing's ideal of the perfect American Home — "A country house where the establish- ment may be moderate, the living rooms compact and well arranged, the labor-saving appliances miiltiplied." It is all this and more. It is the pro- duct of tastes enriched with the best experiences and advantages of city life, brought to bear upon Nature in develop- ing her highest uses. The poet Holmes wrote, with an east wind blowing upon hini, his conviction that "the finest women grow under glass." If it could be true anywhere, it should be when the crystal gives you so much of sunlight and moonlight, and discloses every change uj)on the Great Mother's face. A view like that from the library windows at IMillbrae, across the green meadows, over the blue waters of the bay, through the Liver- more Pass into the pleasant Suilol Val- ley, up to the great cone, now white with winter snow — or southward, over cultivated fields toward the valley of San Mateo, whose embowered homes and white steeples bring a sense of neighborliness into the seclusion — cer- tainly must tend to make "the man and THE CALITOENIA HOKTICULTUKIST. 71 the action fine " to whom they are as daily bread. A very correct impression of the arch- itectural effect of the building is given by the j)hotograi)h. The massive sim- plicity of its style is well carried out in the interior. Alighting within the porte cochere, you pass through a vestibule into the staircase hall — a nobly propor- tioned ajDartment, enriched with beauti- ful woods, and adorned with choice masterpieces of the sculptor's art. Fold- ing doors open from this into the draw- ing room, which has an eastern outlook, through a wide veranda inclosed in plate glass. This room is en suite with the library (one in fact as well as name), wherein one may keep company with the best minds of all the ages; also with a beautiful morning room, and the lux- uriantly appointed billiard-room. The south front commands a view across the lawn to the conservatory, and contains the dining-room and its accessories. There is a private office on this floor, and, in short, every convenience which the various tastes of the family or their guests may require. All the offices which are usually crowded to the rear of our dwellings, are placed in the basement — so light, airy, and well ven- tilated, so filled with all labor-saving appliances, as to leave nothing to be desired in that direction. The bowling alley reaches across the building, and occupies the west front of the basement- story. The main staircase leads to the picture gallery, which occupies the space immediately over the hall; and here we are tempted to linger far be- yond our prescribed limits. Spacious chambers, filled with every luxury of modern life, open to us on every side; but Art makes its own atmosphere. Standing before Merle's exquisite paint- ing of "Poverty," you are borne far away from Millbrae to the crowded streets wherein the old, old story of sacred Motherhood, in conflict with Want and Sorrow, is told anew. Here, too, is the famous picture of Cleopatra before Cresar, by Gerome, over which critics dispute even as historians have quarreled over the great Subject, whose feet were of clay, and whose face was a consuming fire. I> think History, and Shakespeare, and William Story are all justified in this painting. There she stands, lithe as a leopard, graceful as a date palm, the incarnation of intelligence and will, without a trace of moral qual- ity. American art is well represented at Millbrae, both in painting and sculpt- ure. Eandolph Rogers' ' ' Ruth " adorns the hall, and the gallery contains choice pictures by Bierstadt, both Harts, Brad- ford, and many others. One feels that the arts of home decoration have been well and faithfully studied to produce the results seen in all the appointments of the Millbrae home. Something quite beyond the upholsterer's art has deter- mined the style of ornamentation, the harmony of colors, and adaptation of forms to uses. The conservatory, finished only a year ago, already affords many new and in- teresting subjects of botanical study. It is the finest structure of the kind on the coast, and serves the double purpose of a grapery and tropic house. In the latter department, directly under the great dome, the spray of a fountain can be thrown to the roof, to fall again in a grateful shower upon the plants, when- ever it is needed. Extensive propagat- ing and forcing houses are placed near, and the apj)aratus for heating and ventilation is the best in use. As much may be said of the barn and stables, which are seen near the fore- ground of the picture. Both these and the gardener's house are concealed from the windows of the mansion, either by 72 THE CALIFORmA HORTICULTURIST. the contour of the hill or the oaks which cover it. The home grounds are improved upon well cousidered plans, and present "many attractive features. A glazed pa- vilion, which commands a lovely pros- pect, and invites one to rest after a walk in the oak grove, or along the banks of the trout ponds, is atn embellishment of recent date. So are the precious bronzes and antique vases which are now find- ing appropriate places on the lawn. Whatever may befall Millbrae, it will never lose its verdure "while grass grows and water runs." For the water resources are ample; a reservoir of six thousand gallons, fed by perennial springs, supplies the house and con- tiguous grounds, backed by one still larger — holding a million gallons. Should these fail, Spring Valley, with its lake three miles in length, is in the near neighborhood. If we have lingered too long over this description, it is partly to show the reasons for believing that this part of California, despite the winds which make the trees one-sided, is destined to become the seat of the highest civiliza- tion. The busy metropolitan life of the Bank President enhances the de- lights of a rural home occupied and enjoyed at all seasons of the year, and ,the pleasure of improving it is fully •shared by the ladies of the family. Still young enough to be "planting back- logs for their old age," the Millbrae folk have learned that "the best fur- nished soul knows both town and coun- try' at its best," and how to combine most happily the advantages of both. ANNUALS. BY F. A. MILLER. Sweet potatoes to keep well must be thoroughly ripened. Then they should be stored, or hung up in a warm, dry place. It is really surprising that we do not see more annuals cultivated in our gar- dens, when it is generally admitted that they give so great variety and such pleasing effect to the flower-beds. With a very small outlay many little groups of bright and charming flowers could be had throughout the summer season, and until midwinter in this mild climate. I would not recommend planting them singly and isolated, as in such case they would be far less effective, and would, in many instances, not receive proper care ; if planted here and there in groujDS upon the lawn, or inter- mingled with shrubs in the flower gar- den, they can not fail to produce very desirable features. I have frequently urged the planting of annuals, and, when doing so, I have been told quite frequently that the seed would not come up, or that the plants would not do well after coming up. I am willing to believe all that, but can not attribute the failure, in such case, to the climate, nor to the seed. The fault, in most cases, lies in improper treatment or neglect. I will now give a few hints in regard to the planting of annual flower seeds. First prepare the soil well before plant- ing. By preparing soil, I mean this: Clear the ground, intended to be sown, of weeds; give a top dressing of old rotten stable-manure, trench the ground at least spade-deep, pulverize the soil finely, and rake smooth. The seed may then be sown broadcast or in drills ; if sown broadcast, a little fine, light, sandy loam mixed with a small quantity of very old manure may be sprinkled over the seed, so as to cover it to the depth of from one-eighth to one-quar- ter of an inch. My method, however, THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 73 differs from tliis ; I sow broadcast, and then work the soil over gently with a rake ; most of the seeds will thus be covered sufficiently with soil to insure germination. If sown in drills, I cover very lightly in the same way, as indi- cated above. The proper time for sowing can not be given exactly; it depends very much on the state of the weather. In most localities of California, March and April are favorable months. If the seed is sown too earl}', the coldness of the ground and the frequent rains are like- ly to injure seeds, if they are ever so fresh and sound. Many varieties of an- nuals should be raised in boxes covered with glass, and transplanted after hav- ing made four or five leaves ; but some do not bear transplanting well, and sliould be sown where they are desired to grow and flower. But the great secret of successful growing of annuals, is the judicious treatment of the young plants after they are up. The soil requires to be kept loose by frequent hoeing, and to be kept clean of weeds. "While the plants are young, the weeds should be jDulled out with the hand, but as they grow up and are thinned out to proper distances, they should re- ceive frequent hoeing. If artificial ir- rigation is required, it should be done very carefully, the young plants being tender, and apt to be washed out. I will now name a few good varieties, worthy of a place in every garden : Aster (German Aster), is one of the most desirable annuals, of easy culture, and producing very showy flowers of blue, white, red, and other colors and shades. Asters remain in bloom for a long time, and are the fa verities of gar- deners and amateurs in Europe. I have cultivated them here with very good success. I prefer sowing the seed in April, where the plants are expected to remain. The different varieties now under cultivation are almost endless: Truffaut's Poeony-flowered, Pyramidal- flowered, Chrysanthemum-flowered, new Rose-flowered, are some of the best. Balsams are an excellent class of an- nuals, much favored by every European and Eastern florist or amateur. Bal- sams may be either raised in boxes and transplanted, or they may be sown in the ground, where they are expected to remain. The Camellia-flowered and the Rose-flowered are considered the best. If properly treated, Balsams will grow to the height of two or three feet, liter- ally covered with flowers. A very ef- fective, and, at the same time, a very graceful plant. Candytuft, both white and purple, are very desirable annuals, flowering in great abundance throughout the year. If they are expected to bloom during summer, they should be planted early (February or March will do well) ; if they are wanted in bloom in mid-winter, or early spring, the seed should be sown in autumn; say, August or September. Cockscomb (Celosia) is another of these effective and bright annuals, which meet with general favor every- where. Delphiniums (Larkspurs) are hardy annuals of great beauty ; they flower very abundantly, and make a handsome appearance, if grown in groups by themselves. They grow about two to three feet in height. The prevailing colors are pink, blue, white, and varie- gated. Phlox Drummondii cannot be sur- passed by any other annual. The flowers are of very brilliant colors, and, if planted in masses or groujDS, they produce a very striking effect. The seeds may be reared in pots or boxes, for transplanting, while young. I pre- fer sowing the seed in the open ground, 74 THE CALirOENIA HOETICULTUEIST. and letting them remain there for flowering. Stocks (Stock Gilly) are well-known favorites, deliciously fragrant, and they bloom uninterruj)tedly dviring the first year, until late in winter. The colors are white, red, blue, brown, carmine, and purple of various shades. What are known as Winterstocks, will not bloom during the first year, but continue, under favorable circumstances, to flower for two or three years in succession. The flowers come double or single ; the double-flowering varieties are consider- ed the most valuable. The seed may be sown in pots or boxes, under glass, and transplanted, or it may be sown in the open air, to remain where planted ; both ways are practiced. The Zinnia is fast becoming one of the most popular of annual flowers. Mr. James Vick, speaking of it in his excellent catalogue lately published, says: "A splendid large plant and beautiful flower; as double as the Dahlia. It is perfectly adapted to our climate, will thrive in any good soil, and may be transplanted as safely as a Cabbage -plant. Seeds may be sown under glass early in spring, or in the open ground, as soon as the danger from frost is over. Transplant when small." Not being able at this time to de- scribe more of these valuable annuals, I merely mention the following as veiy desirable: Portulacca, Nemophila, Oe- nothera, Marigold, Morning Glory (climbing). Lobelia (not strictly an- nual), Calliopsis, Mignonette, etc. There are many other flowering plants which bloom dui-ing the first year, such as Pansy, Petunia, Scabiosa, Verbena, etc., but they are not considered an- nuals, and will do well with us for a number of years. I most sincerely hope that the time is not far distant, when the barren places of our flower gardens will be filled with some of the best annuals, and thus give greater variety, and pre- sent a more pleasing appearance. CULTIVATING FLOWERS. Most, if not all flowers, succeed best in sandy loam, made rich by the addition of well rotted manure, which should be thoroughly mixed with the soil. Such a soil, thus prepared, will not be- come hard or baked, but will remain loose and porous. It will not only afford the small and tender plants chance for existence, but it will also enable them to perfect themselves with vigor and beauty. If your garden is composed of a stiff, heavy soil, a good dressing of sand and manure will assist it wonderfully in the way of plant develoj)ment; and some of the most delicate plants that would not succeed at all in such soil, in its unim- proved condition, will, after such pre- paration, flourish in the most satisfac- tory manner. A heavy soil is greatly benefited by being roughly spaded up in the fall, and remaining in that condition through the winter. In all cases, before sowing the seed, it is of the utmost imj^ortance that the soil should be thoroughly pulverized. This important particular should never be overlooked. Seed should not be sown too early in spring — not until sufficient warmth and dryness has been imj^arted to the soil. When these requisites are overlooked, and the seed is sown too early, it is apt to perish. When the soil will sjmde up mellow, crumbling to pieces when struck with the spade, it is in jjroper condition to be worked. — Briggs' Illus- trated Catalogue. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 75 ARBUTUS — STEAWBERKY - TREE. BY E. J. HOOPER. Dr. A. Kellogg's interesting and en- thusiastic remarks on the Madrona-tree, have led us to think of a variety of the same family of beautiful shrubs, which we remember when a boy, in our family garden in England. This specieSjWhich we so readily call to mind, was the most common one then in Europe — the A. imedo. The tree we refer to was trimmed so as to be nearly globular in its form, and nothing we thought could exceed its beauty in the autumnal months, when it was covered with both flowers and ripe fruit ; the latter closely resembling a scarlet strawberry. These trees grow naturally in Italy, Spain, and also in Ireland, and are now very common in European gardens. They are tolerably hardy in most parts of Eu- ro j)e, and are seldom injured, except in extremely hard winters, which often kill the young and tender branches, but rarely destroy the trees. They would, of course, flourish well in California. But, while we have so splendidly fine and noble a sort here as the Madrofia or A. Menziesii, we hardly need any of the other varieties of Arbutus. Both these kinds, at any rate, are fine objects for planting singly upon grass plats, or in groups in shrubberies. We had a grand sight of great numbers of Mad- ronas, with their brilliant scarlet ber- ries, contrasting most strikingly and beautifully with their polished and glistening green foliage, on the Pacific Railroad this winter, while descending from the Sierra Nevada into the Sacra- mento Valley. What a delightful sight and change this was after passing over the snow-clad mountains and j)lains, which we had so lately gazed on. * Natural Order, Ericacece. For growing the Arbuti, sandy loam, or loam and decayed vegetable matter, suits them best, and they are said to be readily increased by layers. But plants are most successfully raised from the seed ; the only objection being that this process is so tardy, as almost to deter men from taking the trouble. The taste for these lovely shrubs, however, is now likely to increase, and we know where plenty of the seed has been sown, and plants will soon follow, small as they will be at first for some time. We may add that the berries of the Ai'butus are edible, though not agree- able. When eaten in quantities, their fruit is said to be narcotic. A wine is made from it in Corsica, but it has the same property as the fruit. In Spain, both a sugar and a spirit are obtained from it. The bark and leaves of the same plant are used as astringents ; in some parts of Greece, they are em- ployed in tanning leather. SPONGE FISHING. From the account given by Vice Consul Green, of the Tunisian sponge fishery, in his report to the Foreign Oflice, which has lately been issued, it would seem that to fish for sponges re- quires as much if not more skill than to fish for salmon. The sponge fishery is most actively carried on during the three months of December, January, and Feb- ruary, for at other seasons the j)laces, where the si^onges exist, are overgrown with sea weeds. The storms during November and December, destroy and sweep away the thick marine vegetation, and leave the sponges exposed to view. The fishery is divided into two seasons, namely, summer and winter; the for- mer commencing in March, and ending in November, and the latter as noted above. But the collection of sponges 76 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. is not very productive in summer, as it is confined to the oiDerations carried on with diving apparatus, which can only be used on rocky and firm-bottomed places, or to the success of native fishermen, who wade along the shores and feel for s^Jonges with their feet among the masses of seaweed. The sponges thus collected by the Arabs are also of an inferior quality, owing to the small depth of water in which they have grown. As, nevertheless, calm weather and a smooth sea are essential for the success of fishermen, the winter season, although lasting three months, does not generally afford more than forty -five working days. The Arabs, inhabitants of the coast ; Greeks, i:)rinciiDally from Karnidi, near Naui^lia, (Napoli de Eou- mania), and Sicilians, are chieflj^ em- ployed in the sponge fishery; the Greeks, however, being the most expert fisher- men, while the Arabs are the least skill- ful. Sponges, says the Pall 3Iall Ga- zette, are obtained by spearing with a trident, by diving with or without the assistance of any apparatus, or by dredging with a machine somewhat sim- ilar to an oyster -dredge. The Arab fishermen, principally natives of Mark- enah and Jerbah, emjoloy boats called sandals, manned by from four to seven persons, one of whom is the harpooner, while the others manage the sails, etc. The sj^earman watches for the s^Donges from the bows of the sandal, and the boat is luffed round on his perceiving one, so as to enable him to strike it. The depth of the sea in which the Arabs fish is from fifteen feet to thirty- five feet. Although the Greeks are the most expert divers, the majority of them use the spear. They employ small and light boats, just sufficient to carry a spearman and an oarsman. The boat is rowed gently along, while the spearman searches the bottom of the sea by means of a tin tube of fourteen inches in di- ameter by nineteen inches in length, at one end of which is placed a thick sheet of glass. This tube is slightly immersed in the water, and enables the fisherman to view the bottom undis- turbed by the oscillations of the surface. The sj)ears used by the Greeks are shorter than those employed by the natives or Sicilians, but with wonderful adroitness they are enabled to reach sponges covered by sixty feet of water. They hold in their hands from three to four spears, and dart them so quickly and with such i^recision, one after the other, that before the first has time to disappear under the surface, the second strikes its upper extremity, and thus gives it additional impetus to reach the sponge aimed at. The Sicilians, also, fish with a spear and in small rowing boats, but do not understand the em- ployment of the tube, and have not ac- quired the knack of the Greeks in using three or four spears ; they consequently seldom secure an equal number of sponges, although they are always more successful than the Arabs. The pro- duce of the fishery is, it is stated, sus- ceptible of considerable augmentation by an increase in the number of fisher- men, and a new sponge is reproduced within a year wherever one has been removed. CiNCHOXA ix Bengal. — In 1862, Dr. T. Anderson began the cultivation of Cinchona (the tree that yields the Pe- ruvian bark), in Sikkim, Bengal. The venture has proved i^rofitable, and, at the present time, he has under cultiva- tion Cinchona trees of three species, to the number of 1,707,115, yielding about 300 pounds of bark per acre. Besides this, he has 480,000 young plants in nursery. — Popular Science Monthly. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 77 BOTANICAL AND ZOOLOGICAL FAKMS. BY DR. A. B. STOUT. It may please your readers, and en- courage the zealous in bebalf of agri- cultural progress, to learn the efibrts that have been made, and are still faith- fully urged, to foster that interest. Several years since a proposition was made before the American Medical As- sociation to introduce the culture, as an experiment, of the Cinchona-tree in the different States of the Union. The reason therefor was, the scarcity and high cost of that invaluable drug, qui- nine. The same proposal having been introduced before the State Medical Society, of California, some three years since, the, subject was referred to a committee. It at once became apparent to that committee that the experiment in California, as a subject of special legislation, would be a horticultural im- provement of too slow growth to obtain attention, where quick harvest and great profits were essential to prosperity. The committee, therefore, determined to enlarge the programme, and endeavor to found an institution worthy the creative greatness of California. The following Act, presented before the Legislature in 1872, was the result, and was favorably regarded. It had many friends, but, unfortunately, was introduced at too late a date to receive full consideration. An Act to Create and Establish a State Botan- ical and Zoological Farm for the Experimental Culture of all Desirable Plants of Foreign or Indigenous Growth, available for Economic Pur- poses; for the Cultivation of Knowledge in Zo- ology, and for the Foundation of a Public Thermal Sanitarium for the Cure of Chronic Maladies. Preamble. — At the meeting of the Medical Society of tlie State of California, October 19th, 1870, this interesting subject was first intro- duced to the public attention. A memorial to Congress on the cultivation of the Cinchona- tree in the United States (by the American Medical Association) was presented to the Con- VoL. ni.— 11. vention. A committee was appointed to ad- dress the Legislature of California, and petition that honorable body to appropriate suitable lands for the purpose. Doctors A. B. Stout and T. M. Logan were the committee selected. The following year, Oct. 11th, 1871, at the annual meeting of the Medical Society of the State of California, Dr. Stout of San Francisco, from the committee previously appointed, made the following report on the raising of Cinchona, which was accepted and referred to the Com- mittee on Publication: The committee on this subject report that during the year no facilities have offered which could be used to promote the cultivation of the Cinchona-tree in California. The committee, however, report jirogress, and ask for further time. The project is entertained that this well approved subject may be availed of to obtain through legislative action the appropriation of lands, not only to try the cultivation of the Cin- chona-tree, but for the experimental ciilture of any other desirable plant; or, in other words, the foundation of a State Botanical and Zoolo- gical Farm. Such an appropriation would ren- der a permanent service and honor to the State, while the care and expense devoted to the one single object might be lost by the failure of the experiment. For such an approi^riatiou a mag- nificent botanical garden might be created. As- sociated with a State sanitary institution and thermal resort for chronic diseases, it would form a new and superb institution. Foi-ming, as it would, the permanent residence of several comjietent physicians, botanists, and natural- ists, this would secure for it efficient superin- tendence, while oftentimes the voluntary labor of many grateful convalescents, or other per- sons infirm from various causes, would diminish the expenses. In this prosj^ect, your commit- tee respectfully asks to be continued. Aethuk B. Stotjt, Thomas M. Logan. The committee was continued accordingly. Should the bill introduced Februry 23d, 1872, before Congress, bj' Senator Morrill of Vermont, for the sui^port of Agricultural Colleges, be adopted — "The support of Agriciiltural Col- leges. Washington, February 23d. A bill in- troduced by Senator Morrill, of Vermont, to- day was referred to the Committee on Educa- tion and Labor, appropriating to each State in which Agricultural Colleges have been estab- lished in accordance with the law of 18G2, one million acres of public lauds for their further endowment and support. No mineral lands are to be taken under this Act " — then would the cession of land be sufficient to establish four Agricultural Colleges in as many different regions of the State, so that their benefits would be fair- ly distributed. The establishment of these collegiate farms with botanical gardens for experimental horti- culture and sanitary objects, woiild necessarily become points of attraction for farming settlers in their vicinity, and thus every such endow- ment would become an important centre of progressive civilization and wealth in the State. As the bill of Senator Momll proposes the 78 THE CALIFOKNIA HOETICULTUKIST. cession of one million acres, abundant funds ■will accrue for the support and development of the collegiate farms; for if ten thousand acres •were allotted to each farm, in all forty thousand acres, the remainder sold or leased would be- come yearly an increasing value. The advantages in a sanitary point of view, in promoting jiublic health by the suppression of contagious diseases and preventing heredita- ry transmission, are manifest. This sanitary question is now one of legislative solicitude. The addition of a public sanitarium for chronic diseases, with the i;se of thermal springs and piiblic baths, would in no wise interfere with the agricultural and educational olijects in con- templation. Their presence, on the contrary, would give an additional value and interest, and invite a larger iuilus of interested parties to the district. Ample space for all these objects exists in these large tracts to permit the various departments to be isolated. The following quotation from page fortj'-niue, article " Social Evil," in the first biennial report of the State Board of Health, 1870 and 1871, explains the merits of the subject: " The great diminution in the amount as well as the virulence of venereal maladies in the pres- ent, as comi")ared with the ancient times, and the power exercised over the disease, as well on its primitive forms as on its hereditary trans- mission, by medical treatment, evidently allows the inference that still greater mitigation of the evil may be effected. ' ' The squalid poverty and filth of former ages no longer exist in our favored country. In a comparative view the poor of our country are all rich. But yet reformative legislation may very ,much accelerate the progress of improvement. To this end the establishment of hygienic insti- tutions to which the afflicted may easily resort, without the necessity of a record or register of their affliction, will render benefit. The dis- grace and secresy which accompany contamina- tion contribute immensely to i^rolong and in- tensify the evil, and very few are willing to make a public record of a mortifying fact. Let, then, the cure be made as jDrivate for the indi- gent as the rich. In large towns hospitals and dispensaries should be opened, of easy access to all parts of the place; and in counties, a County Physician, with an ample salary, should visit through the county, whose services would be free to the poor. The magnificent public baths of ancient Rome are an institution which would do honor to our philanthropic age. "It was, perhaps, this very matter that led the statesmen of that epoch to call them into exist- ence. The religious orders of those times were clever enough to convert to their uses the thermal springs of their respective countries, and by investing them with the idea of divine visitations, won the merit and the profits of divine cures." If, then, the Legislature would appropriate Bouie thermal .springs of acknowledged efficiency and devote them to public use, with free accom- modations for the indigent, and as a State hos- pital to which the poor sick of the State might resort at a very low cost, or for nothing, and even in extreme cases give free transport to the locality, more absolute relief and benefit would be done to the State than by direct legislation against the " social evil." At present such resoi-ts are occupied as pri- vate property, and are only accessible to those who have ample means to pay for their enjoy- ment. Therefore, T7te People of the State of California, represented in Senate and Assembly, do enact asfolloxcs : Skction 1. Public lands, in area acres (taken from the lands of the State of California, or obtained from the public lands of the United States in California by the petition of the State to the Uuited States for the said api^ropriation), sball be set apart, applied, and surveyed for the aforesaid objects of public utility and philan- thropy. Sec. 2. Said lands shall not be necessarily limited to one continuous tract; but to obtain the benefit of the different zones of climate and the different soils, altitudes, and thermal wa- ters of the State, they may be located in four different nearly equally divided sections, and four differently selected districts. Sec. 3. Five Trustees, to coasist, first, of the Governor; second, a member of the State Med- ical Society to be appointed by the Governor; third, the State Geologist; fourth, the Secretary of the State Board of Health; and fifth, the Superintendent of Public Instruction, shall carry out the object of this Act, take charge of the lands aijproijriated, appoint managers and superintendents, and lease to such farming families as will agree to promote the general plan. Sec. 4. Said five Trustees shall hold their commissions for four years, and their acts shall be subject to legislative confirmation. EXTEACT FKOM THE TkAN'SACTIONS OF THE MeD- icAii Society of the State of Califoenia, IN Octobee, 1872: Kepoet of Comm Ittee on Cultivation of the Cin- chona-t7-ee, and the appropriation of Public Lands for Botanical Farms, Zoological Collec- tions, and the use of^ Thermal and other Mineral Springs in Chronic Diseases. The interest the committee takes in the sub- ject committed to its care, ie unabated. This important and interesting question now depends upon the action of Congress upon the bill in- troduced by Senator Morrill, of Vermont, pro- posing to donate large tracts of lands for these purposes in every State. We have, therefore, to endure the delays dei^endent upon this ac- tion, which it is proposed to urge with new vigor when Congress shall again convene. As further evidence of the great value of this en- terprise, we submit the following essay of Robert E. C. Stearns, member of the Cahfornia Academj"^ of Sciences, on the cultivation of cer- tain Australian forest trees in California. A. B. Stoct, M. D., Thos. M. Logan, M. D. [The essay of Prof. Stearns, on the Australian forest trees, has appeared in previous numbers of this magazine.] The preamble of this bill, introduced by Mr. Comte, gives an ample explana- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 79 tion, and shows the phases through which the general idea has passed, and is in full way, we hope, to obtain ulti- mate success. The bill of Senator Morrill, of Ver- mont— a bill w^hose scoj)e is so truly national and philanthroj)ic — has already passed the Senate, and only awaits the confirBiation of the House of Representa- tives. The j)lan of the bill, if we mistake not, is to sell 1,000,000 acres of United States lands at the Government price, and supply, from the accruing funds in the United States Treasury, the sums necessaiy to inaugurate the agricultural colleges. The interest on the balance to be divided pro rata among the States for the further support of the colleges. Now is the moment for the friends of agricultural science and natural history to extend their influence and persuasion to obtain the final passage of this ad- mirable bill. The name of Morrill will be gratefully associated in the mind of every land-holder in the nation. Edu- cation in agriculture has now become as indispensable to the farmer, as it is in all other departments of industry. Hereditary experience and oral instruc- tion no longer suffice, important as they may be to success in farming. The evening discussions around the big stove in the country inns, are the prin- cipal lectures heard on husbandry, and the town hotels are our agricultural colleges ; that is, when the j)oliticiaus give the farmers a chance to talk — and then the fermented product of the grain crop is the chief inducement to the ex- change of opinions. The question will naturally arise, Should all this fine endowment be granted to one agricultural college — the present existing institution? The great extent, and the variety of soils, climate, and altitudes in California, render this State exceedingly favorable for the in- troduction and cultivation of all the great commercial products ; and this circumstance favors the division of the land into at least four great farms, each with its college, board of trustees, and general organization. The more culti- vated minds can be induced to de- vote their energy to the work, the more will the students, and practical young farmers flock to their schools and fields. And a generous rivalry will stimulate them all. How grand the picture on the mind of all these model farms, in their vari- ous details and departments, in full op- eration ; and when each graduate may write " What I know about Farming," with honor to himself, and benefit to his State. * DKYING OF FKUITS. The following valuable remarks rela- tive to the drying of fruits, etc., were communicated by Mr. Wm. M. Haynie and others at a meeting of the Sacra- mento Farmers' Club: Mr. Haynie gave an account of his experience in curing Raisins and Figs in his hop-house : The hop-house is provided with a set of boxes with wire-cloth bottoms, and some twelve or fifteen feet below these boxes are a couple of large stoves or furnaces so arranged that the smoke passes off by pipes outside of the build- ing, while the cool air passes in at oj)en- ings at the bottom of. the building, and being heated by the furnaces, passes up through the wire-cloth and Grapes, and out at ventilators at the top of the building, the walls of the building be- ing battened and caulked very close. The fire was kept up during the da}'- time and allowed to cease during the night, so that the Grapes had been sub- 80 THE CALIFORNIA HOlfriCULTURIST. jected to the heating process about twenty hours. The committee exhibited some samples of dried Grapes of each variety-, and some of the Figs. The Los Angeles Grapes were, some of them, dried about right, and others were still soft or green, the curing being some- what uneven. TheWhite Muscat Grapes were still quite soft and more imper- fectly dried, while the Figs were pretty fairly cured. But the heat had evidently been raised too high, the Grapes having the taste of being somewhat cooked. The committee were entirely satisfied from the experiment that making Raisins by artificial heat could be made suc- cessful, practically and financially, but wire-cloth to lay them on was objection- able. A better way would be to sus- pend them, or lay them on some mate- .rial which was a non-conductor of heat. "Wherever the fruit came in contact with the wire it was cooked. They also thought the heat should be generated outside the building, and forced through the fruit in the form of heated air. Mr. Johnston said: You can't force the drying of Grapes ; there was no rea- son for constructing houses in which to cure Grapes when they could be suc- cessfully cured on the vines and gath- ered in the form of Raisins. Mr. Aiken said: Grapes do not dry evenly on the vine. While some of the berries on the same bunch dry to a crisp, others remain green. Mr. Rutter agreed with Mr. Aiken. He has White Muscat Grapes of the first crop still hanging on the vines, and still as green as ever. Mr. Manlove: It is easy to account for the opinions of Aiken and Rutter. Aiken's vineyard is on the river bottom, low laud, and is covered with sand, which causes some of the Grapes exposed to the reflection of the rays of the sun to scald and crisp, while those not so expos- ed are, by the natural dampness of the surrounding atmosphere, kept from dry- ing at all ; while Rutter imgat^s his vineyard, and keeps the saja running in the vines and to the Grapes. He (Mr. Manlove) has 100 vines of White Muscat Grapes evenly and successfully converted into Raisins, and now hanging on the vines and ready for picking and packing. His vineyard is on clay or adobe soil, which, when not irrigated, absorbs the heat of the sun in the day- time and retains it in the night, thus keeping up the diying process of the Grape. He had formerly dried all his fruit on scaffolds, but he had been taught by a Greek who had worked for him that the ground was better, as it is certainly much cheaper. When gather- ing his Muscat Grapes for the market, he made a practice of assorting them, throwing the unmarketable bunches on the ground between the rows. Here they are allowed to remain until cured, when they are gathered up and packed as Raisins, and he sells them at from 13c. to 15c. per lb. The expense of curing being nothing, he had found this practice to pay. Grapes, or any other fruit, will dry one-third faster on the ground than on boards, and better. A clay or adobe soil is the best, because it does not become so hot under the rays of the sun as to scald the fruit, while it retains the heat longer when the sun disappears. Mr. Johnston said: This is the mode of drying Figs and Grapes on the Medi- terranean, and is undoubtedly the cheap- est, and perhaps the best. It is some- times practiced to send heat through under dirt scaffolds by means of fur- naces constructed something after the style of the furnaces under brick kilns. This secures the continuance of the heat during the night, and takes advantage of all the heat of the sun in the day, at THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 81 the same time; and be tbiuks it ques- tionable wbetber any drpng-bouse can be made tbat will be as economical and effective in this country as the method suggested. Fruit-growers in California in general say that drying fruit will not pay. The reasons they give are that they have no convenient way to facilitate the work of drying, and the labor is too high to dry fruits in the ordinary way of sun-drying. He recommended the erection of drying- houses heated by pipes, from an ordi- nary furnace or stove constructed for the purpose, or otherwise hj kilns with a surface constructed, say twelve feet by twenty, and the furnace draft under- neath. This kind of kiln can be con- structed of brick or stone, and is well adapted for the quick drying of all kinds of fruits. Such Idlns are used for dry- ing fruits in the States of Pennsylvania and Ohio. The advantages of kiln-drying are ap- parent from the fact that the acid of the fruit is retained, and the sacchaiine projDerties of the fruit undergo no fer- mentation; only the vegetable and water substances are evaporated, leaving the fruit with all the solids and excellent flavor belonging to the juices of their several kinds. Such drying-kilns can be constructed to last any length of time by being covered from the weather, and would be more convenient and economical than drying-houses — they turn out better dried fruit. To make a good quality of dried Apples, they must be cut or sliced when in the ripening state, but not fully ripe. The same will apply to the Peach, Plum, Pear, and the smaller fruits. When dried suffi- ciently for keeping they should be im- mediately and compactly packed in boxes of suitable size, especially in California, in order that the fruit may not undergo the changes in our climate from humid to dry, which tend to mold and change the flavor. ^ In drying Figs, he believed the out- door surface -drying kiln would be the best. The Smyrna and Sicil}' Figs are dried upon a smooth surface of hard clay, as also under glass in houses con- structed for the purpose. So are the beautiful layers of white Malaga and blue Portugal Raisins. The Zante Currants are dried upon fire-kilns and in ovens constructed for the purpose, at a tem- perature of heat not exceeding eighty degrees. The German and French Prunes are dried in clay ovens similarly constructed. All of the imported fruits are similarly dried, and the condition and appearance they come in prove con- clusively that they are cured by fire heat. This should teach us all to abandon th« lazy system of sun-drying, and stimu- late us all to adopt the fire system. There is no country upon the face of the globe that produces better qualities or varieties of fruit for drying than Cal- ifornia, and this business can be made a great source of wealth and one of the leadinof economies of the farmer. THE HARD AND OENAMENTAL WOODS OF THE PACIFIC COAST. BT C. A. STIVERS, M. D. Living in a new country as we are, and surrounded to a certain extent by new conditions of life, it is our duty to foster and develop all that shall make us prosperous and wealthy. Not alone are we to unfold the hidden treasures of our own State, but also those of ad- joining States and countries. It can be truly said, that to us be- longs the general prosperity of the en- tire Pacific Coast, and, if we wish to erect an empire of commercial greatness for ourselves, and for those who are to 82 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICTJLTUEIST. follow us, it must be done by reacliing ou||on all sides, and drawing to us the materials of wealth, which are at pres- ent lying unnoticed and unutilized. California stands in the current-way of (we may almost say) the world's com- merce, and it is only necessary to so direct the streams, as that they shall flow through her; receiving, as they must, an increased impetus from her aid and knowledge. With these facts before me, and also with a view of bringing into notice a branch of commerce which is but devel- oping itself on this coast — that in hard and ornamental woods — I have thought a few remarks in your journal would not be out of place. In using the title of ' ' Hard and Ornamental "Woods of the Pacific Coast," I have done so for the purpose of including all woods of that description found growing ad- jacent to the coast, and reaching from Behring's Strait on the north, to the Bay of Panama on the south. Com- mencing at the southern jDoint of this timber belt, and passing north through Central America and Mexico, we meet with a large number of valuable woods already known to commerce ; while there is eveiy reason to believe that there are many others equally valuable, which have as yet been unutilized. The most common hard woods re- ceived from this southern part of the timber belt, are those known to com- merce under the general name of " Spanish Cedar" (natural order, Cedre- lacece). While all these belong to the same general class, they are still divided into many varieties, marked by differ- ences in color, texture, and grain. Those growing in Nicaragua (small lots of which have, at various times, been im- ported), like the Cedars in general of Central America, are finer in texture, and more beautiful than those in Mex- ico— a variety from Tiger Island (a small island in the Gulf of Fonseca), being as hard and fine as the best Ma- hogany. Unfortunately, this island has been almost stripped of these valuable trees. Central America also furnishes an ex- ceedingly hard wood called " Amapa 2')rieia" (local name), which resembles the Black Walnut in some degree, but is of much greater density, and some- what lighter in color. Small lots have been imported, and used in cabinet work, for which it is well fitted on ac- count of its great hardness. Nicaragua, more especially, grows the " Carretta" (another local name), which seems to be but a variety of the preceding, and has often been mistaken for Walnut. Its principal use has been in small carvings, and for ship j)ur- poses ; small quantities having at times been imported for use at the Navy Yard. Another valuable wood also comes to this port, chiefly from Nicaragua, called "Fustic" {3Iorus tinetoria). At j^resent its priuciiDle use is that of a dye-wood, producing a clear, fine, yellow stain. The wood is of a light and exceedingly handsome yellow color, close grained, and capable of receiving a high polish. As we advance north into Mexico, the Cedars are more plentiful, but are somewhat softer than those found grow- ing further south ; this quality is, how- ever, a gain rather than otherwise ; as the soft Cedars of the west coast of Mexico are highly esteemed in the Eastern States ; prices having advanced to such a rate as to allow of a number of shipments being made from this port to New York by steamer, at a fair margin of jDi'ofit. Their principal use is for cigar boxes, stair and cabinet work. Mexico has also the pencil Cedar growing on the west coast, but THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 83 the exact locality is at present unknown to me. Besides the Cedars, Mexico furnishes a great variety of other hard and orna- mental woods, small shipments of which have, from time to time, been received at this port. The " Haha," a dense, hard wood, is spoken very highly of by ship-carpenters, as being well adapted for their work. The " Primavera," or white Mahog- any, is an exceedingly fine cabinet wood; hard and dense, of great dur- ability, and susceptible of a fine polish. It is also well fitted for ship-work. Of 'Rosewoods, there are two varieties; the red and black. The red Rosewood is a kind of bastard wood, somewhat like the true Rosewood, but lighter in color, and much softer in texture, while the black is in all respects equal to the Rosewood of South America. " Linole" (natural order, Aurantia- cece,) (?) is rather a soft wood, but with a very pretty and curious figure . Its jDrinci- pal value is in its perfume, resembling somewhat that of Bergamot. It is used in the manufacture of fancy boxes and caskets. " Lignumvitae " (Guaiacum officinale) is also found growing in large quantities in Mexico, and is in all respects a valu- able and desirable wood. Its hardness and durability are well known. It is used in ship-building where a veiy hard wood is required, as in the case of block and pulley wheels. It is also employed in medicine, in the form of tincture, infusion, etc. In addition to the woods already mentioned, there are Oaks of various kinds and qualities to be found along this Pacific timber-belt ; the Quercus Skinnerii being one of the most valuable. At present, the country is so undevel- oped and in such a condition, that there are no great facilities for getting these woods to points of shipment. But if their value is only demonstrated, there will soon be such a demand, as to in- duce an active interest to be taken in this branch of commerce, by both the people and the government. I shall, at a future time, continue this article by enumerating and describing the hard and ornamental woods of the northern portion of this timber belt, reaching from Mexico throiigh Califor- nia, Oregon, "Washington Territory, British Columbia, and Alaska. SELECT PLANTS (Exclusive of Timber Trees) readily eligible for Vido7-ian Industrial Culture, icith Indications of their Native Countries and some of their Uses — an Enumeration offered BY BAKON FEED. VON MUELLER. [Continued from page 10 of January number.] Calamus montanus, T. Anderson. — Himalaya, up to 6,000 feet. A hardy climbing palm. The aged canes are naked. "The light but strong suspens- ion-bridges, by which the large rivers of Sikkim are crossed, are constructed of this palm. It supplies material for the strongest ropes for dragging logs of wood from the forests. The most dur- able baskets and the cane-work of chairs are manufactured from the slit stems. "Walking-sticks and ridiug-canes made of this species are exported from Sikkim in considerable quantity. " Many other Calami serve similar jiurposes, but probably few or perhaps none are equally hardy. Cajhelina sativa, Crantz.- — Middle and South Europe, temperate Asia. An an- nual herb, cultivated for the sake of its fibre and the oil of its seeds. It is readily grown after corn crops, yields richly even on poor soil, and is not attacked by aphis. Mr. "W. Taylor ob- tained 32 bushels of seeds from an acre. 84 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. and from these 540 lbs. of oil. The re- turn is within a few months. Canna Aciiiras, Gillies. — Mendoza. One of the few extra-tropical of Cannas, eligible for Arrow-root culture. Canna coccinea, Boscoe. — West India. Yields with some other Cannas the particular Arrow-root, called " Tous les mois."* Canna edulis, Edwards.— The Adeira of Peru. One of the hardiest of Arrow- root jDlants, and thus well adapted for our clime. Seeds, even if many years old, will germinate. This species has yielded excellent starch at Melbourne, Western Port, Lake Wellington, Bal- larat and other localities, from plants supplied at the Botanic Garden. The Rev. Mr. Hagenauer, of the Gipps Land Aboriginal Mission station, ob- tained 220 lbs. of Arrow -root from one-eighth of an acre of this Canna. The gathering of the roots is effected about Aj^ril. The plants can be set out in ordinary ploughed land. Captain James Hall, of Hastings, prepared also largely the starch from this root. Starch grains remarkably large. Canna FLAccrDA, Boscoe. — Carolina. Probably also available for Arrow-root, though in first instance, like many con- geners, chosen only for ornamental cul- ture. Canna glauca, Linne. — One of the West Indian Arrow-root Cannas. Cannabis sativa, Z. * — The Hemp- plant; indigenous to various parts of Asia, as far west as Turkey, and as far east as Japan. Cultivated for its fibre,, since ancient times. Particularly in hot climes it exudes the " Churras," a resinous substance of narcotic intoxicat- ing i:)roperty. The foliage contains also a volatile oil, which the seeds yield by pressure — the well-known fixed Hemp- oil. The staminiferous plant is pulled for obtaining the fibre in its best state immediately after flowering; the seed- ing plant is gathered for fibre at a later stage of growth. Good soil, well drain- ed, never absolute dry, is needed for successful Hemp culture. Hemp is one of the plants yielding a full and quick return within the season. The summer temperature of St. Petersburg (67'' F.) and of Moscow (62° F.) ad- mit yet of the cultivation of this plant. Capparis spinosa, L. — South Europe and North Africa. A somewhat shrub- by and trailing plant, deserving even for the sake of its handsome flower a j^lace in any garden. It sustains its life in the most arid deserts. The frosts of our lowlands do not destroy this jDlant. The flower-buds and young berries preserved in vinegar with some salt form the Capers of commerce. Samples of Capers, j^^^P^^'^^ from plants of the Botanic Garden, are placed in our Industrial Museum, to- gether with many other industrial pro- ducts emanating from the writer's labor- atory. A closely allied and probably equally useful plant, CajDparis num- mularia, is indigenous to Northern Australia. The Caper-plant is propa- gated either from seeds or suckers ; it is well able to withstand either heat or drought. The buds affter their first immersion into slightly salted vinegar are strained and afterwards preserved in bottles with fresh vinegar. Chemic- al principle: Glycosid. Capsicum annuum, L. — Central Amer- ica. An annual herb, which pelds the Chillies and thus also the material for Cayenne Pepper. Chemical principle : Capsicin, an acrid soft -resinous sub- stance. Capsicum baccatum, L. — The Cherry- Capsicum. A perennial plant. From Brazil brought to tropical Africa and Asia, where now other Pepper-Capsi- cums are likewise naturalized. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 85 Capsicum fkutescens, L. — Tropical America. The berries of this shrubby species are likewise converted into Ca- yenne Pepper. Capsicum longum, Candolle. — Some of the hottest parts of America. An an- nual herb, also yielding- Cayenne Pep- per. Our summers admit of the suc- cessful growth of at least the annual species of Capsicum in all the lowlands. Caethamus TnsCTonnjs, L. — From Egypt to India. The safflower. A tall, annual, rather handsome herb. The florets j)roduce yellow, rosy, ponceau and other red shades of dye, according to various admixtures. Pigment prin- ciples : Carthamin and Carthamus- yel- low. For domestic purposes it yields a dye ready at hand from any garden. In India the Carthamus is also cultivated for the sake of the oil, which can be pressed from the seeds. Caeoi Ajowan, Benthan. (Ptychotis Ajow^an, Candolle.) India. The fruits of this annual herb form an excellent culinary condiment with the flavor of thyme. Its peculiar oil is accompanied by Cymol and Thymol. Caeum Caeui, L. — The Caraway-plant. Perennial. Europe, North and Middle Asia. It might be naturalized in our Alps and also along our sea shores. The Caraway-oil is accompanied by two chemical principles : Barvon and Car- vol. Caeum feeulifolium, Koch. (Bunium ferulifolium, Desfont.) A perennial herb of the Mediterranean regions. The small tubers are edible. Caeum Peteoselinum, Bentham. (Api- um Petroselinum,- L.) The Parsley. The biennial well-known herb, indige- nous to South Eui'ope and the Orient. Essential oil peculiar with Stearopten. Caetota ueens. L. — India. One of the hardier Palms, ascending, according to Dr. Thomas Anderson, the Himalayas Vol. III.— 12. to an altitude of 5,000 feet, yet even there attaining a considerable height, though the temperature sinks in the cooler season to forty degrees Fahren- heit. The trunk furnishes a sago-like starch. This Palm flowers only at an advanced age, and, after having pro- duced a succession of flowers, dies away. From the sap of the flowers toddy and jialm-sugar are j)repared, as from the Cocos and Borassus Palm, occasionally as much as twelve gallons of toddy be- ing obtained from one tree in a day. The fibre of the leaf-stalks can be manu- factured into very strong ropes, also into baskets, brushes, and brooms. The out- er wood of the stem serves for turnery. Ameeican Plants in Geeat Beitain. — An English journal says: "The beautiful Asclepias tuberosa is, this sea- son, producing freely its show^', bright, orange -colored flowers in several col- lections round London. This fine pe- rennial thrives perfectly well almost anywhere, if planted in sandy peat." In the same journal we find the follow- ing notice: "One of the best hardy ^ aquatic plants, in flower at the joresent time, is the North American Pickerel Weed, Pontederia cordata, a plant by no means so often met with as it deserves to be. It jDroduces a stout spike of handsome sky-blue flowers from one and a half to two feet high. No orna- mental water should be without this charming aquatic, which should, how- ever, have a place near its margin." Again: "The American Pitcher Plant, Sarracenia purpurea, is thriving as well as any native plant in the bog-garden in Messrs. Backhouse's nurseries at York, and by its side a healthy little specimen of the still more curious Dar- lingtonia Calif ornica is beginning to grow freely. " 86 THE CVLIFOENIA HOKTICULTIIRIST. The above extracts will show that many of our native plants find a better appreciation in foreign cultivation than they do in their own country. It is to be hoped that our gardeners and florists will give more attention to the intro- duction of native plants, whose merits have been overlooked because of their commonness. CAMPHOR -WOOD. The Camphor -wood boxes brought from China and the East are well known for their strong preservative odor, and are found useful in keeping away moths from woolens and furs. The China and Japan Camphor-tree belongs to the Laurel family, but that of Sumatra and Borneo is the Dryobalanops campliora. Even the leaves and fruit smell of cam- phor. In Sumatra this tree is abun- dantly met with on the west coast, chiefly in the extensive bush, but sel- dom in places more than 1,000 feet above the level of the sea. The tree is straight, extraordinarily tall, and has a gigantic crown, which often overtops the other woody giants hy 100 feet or so. The stem is sometimes twenty feet thick. The Barus camphor of this island is the most esteemed of any, and it is for this drug, obtained in but small quantities — seldom more than half a pound to a tree — that it is, ruthlessly destroyed. The tree, when felled, is divided into small pieces, and these are afterward split ; upon which the camphor, which is found in hollows or cre^dces in the body of the tree — and above all, in knots or swellings of branches from the trunks — becomes visible in the form of granules or grains. An essential oil also exudes from the tree in cutting, which is sometimes collected, but is scarcely remunerative. On the west coast of Formosa there are forests of Camphor-wood, and a great deal of crude camphor is shipped thence to Amoy and other Chinese ports. Large quantities of the wood are sawn into planks. Tables and cabinets are then made of it, and it is also turned into platters and washing-basins. Only a small portion of the vast camphor for- est of Formosa has been reclaimed from its wild inhabitants, and this consists of fine tall trees, the growth of ages. "When a tree is felled, the finest part of the wood is sawn into planks, the rest chopped small and boiled down for the camphor. — The Garden. HOW TO COOK MUSHROOMS. Robert Morris Copeland contributes to the Februaiy Atlantic an article on "Edible Fungi," from which we take the following: The treatises on fungi give many methods for cooking them to make them palatable, and most of the processes are so compound, and require so many additions of condiments, or spices, but- ter, etc., that a piece of sole-leather so cooked would probabl}^ be very good. The simplest method is the best for rel- ish, and is an easy way of ascertaining whether any fungus wftich seems safe is flavorous enough to be worth eating. Peel off the outer skin, break out the stem, and set the cap top down on a hot stove. In the spot where the stem formerly stood jDut a little salt, and, if desired, a small bit of butter. Scatter some salt over the gills. When the butter or salt melts, the cooking is done; and as soon as it is cool enough the fungus should be eaten, carefully saving the juice. Agaricus Camjyestris cooked in this way, and eaten hot, will make one wish that he was all mouth and palate, and that his mouth might never be in want of a Mushroom. THE CALITORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 87 This is the simple Irish way of cook- ing the Mushroom, and all its allies can be treated in that way. Some fungi which do not seem particularly delicious when thus cooked, will, when slowly stewed with a little butter, and flour dredged in, with salt and pepper, make most delicious stews. Tbe mushrooms Cantharellus, Marasi- mus. Boletus, indeed all of the fungi named, will stew together, and form a dish that, alone or as an entree, can not be surpassed in delicacy of flavor and gastronomic satisfaction. m\Uxm\ ^^ovtfolm. In another column will be found an announcement from the Secretary of the Bay District Horticultural Soci- ety, that a Floral Exhibition will be held at the Horticultural Hall, in the coming May. We hope that every en- deavor will be used both by j)rofes- sional nurserymen and by our rapidly increasing community of amateurs, to render this a pleasing success. Spring- is indeed the most appropriate season for such enjoyments. Much care is necessary to make such fitting arrangements, that, while every exhibitor may have fair opportunity for display and contrast with his competi- tors, and a due protection for his prop- erty, yet that a general harmony of outline may be preserved ; and that, while an artistic contrasting of color is effected, at the same time, that general blending and softening of tints which is so pleasing and refreshing to the eye, may j)ervade the whole exhibition. In view of these reqtiirements, we ex- tract the following remarks from the ■Gardeners' Chronicle of the 4th of last January : "We have always held, and we still hold, that no flower show will ever be what it ought to be, until some plan, by which the materials can be placed independent of their ownership, has been brought into working order ; and then, as the adjudication must precede the ar- rangement, and tbe arrangement must jn'ccede the admission of the public, it be- comes a necessity either that they should be judged over-night, or very early on the morning of the exhibition day. There are, of course, difficulties in the way of this, but they are scarcely insurmount- able ; for it would not be necessary to move all the objects which may be brought in. The lirst and second prize lots might very well remain intact, as groups of the particular objects of which they are composed; while third prize lots, and such as do not get prizes, to- gether with some of the minor classes, might be broken up, and their compo- nent parts placed where they were most reqviired. All that would be necessary to carry this out would be to devise a simple and j)racticable plan of marking the plants, so that there might be no disputes about ownership, and then to secure general acquiescence in the plan. ' ' What is wanted, and which we never get now, is a sort of continuity in the thread of arrangement — not the abrapt transitions we so often see : as, for ex- ample, a group of tall plants set down beside a group of dwarf plants, the two lots not harmonizing one whit more in character of leaves and flowers than they do in stature. The surface should form an easy flowing line, and, where possible, the outline of the plan of the groups also should be a graceful curve; but even in straight tents, and on linear stages, it would be an immense im- provement if the objects could be grad- uated in size. Any marked subjects, such as the best grown Roses, or Pelar- goniums, or stove and greenhouse plants, would form distinct and char- acteristic objects as prominent groups, and so would such things as Aloes and Agaves, or even the lowly alpines, if they were set at proper intervals, and the intermediate spaces were so filled out as to connect the one with the other. We are fully aware of the dif- ficulties of carrying out all these sug- gestions, and also of the difficulties of working up a picture at all presentable THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. under present arrangements, for in the former case there must be a revolution of the whole system of staging; and in the latter case the unfultilled engage- ments made in the shape of entries, and not complied with, coupled with the limited time which is available, utterly prevent anything but an arrangement of chance, which may or may not prove to be efitective at certain spots, and which can never hojie to reach to any high degree of effectiveness as a whole. To remedy this state of things, all that can be done at present is to keep the matter well before the horticultural public, with the hojie that governing- bodies may in time see their way to strike out a bolder policy, and that those who bring together the materials of which the shows have to be com- posed, may not prove obstructive as to the mode of carrying it out." 1\^E HAVE had many communications from friends, seeking information on the rudimentary steps necessary to in- itiate a garden, in a locality either not previously cultivated, or in a neglected condition, by an entirely inexperienced hand. Complaints are made that all books and codes of instructions in magazines, evidently presuppose some amount of knowledge and some previ- ous preparation. Our friends seem to •want their ABC. To gratify them, we have made arrangements for a series of short and concise articles on this sub- ject; but they must learn to ask for ■what they want, and not be too lazy to do it. Write ; and, if possible, answers will follow. It is not generally known that the leaves of the coffee-plant are coming to be used like the berries, and in some coffee-growing lands, Java for instance, are preferred by the natives to the choicest berry for making the favorite decoction. INFLUENCE OF FORESTS ON CLIMATE. Meteorology is yet in a crude and undeveloped state, but experiment and research in that direction are constantly bringing out facts of permanent value. In Europe, where the denudation of forests has rendered these changes more apparent, investigations have been car- ried forward in the most careful man- ner. The following observations made by M. Mathieu, Professor in the School of Forestiy, at Nancy, France, while they do not establish the theoiy of the effect of forests on climate, are valu- able in that direction. They were rejDorted b}' him to the Agricultural College at Nancy, in 18G9, and include the first eight months of the year given, being made with reference to the points named, as follows: 1. Does the wooded condition of a country exercise an influence upon the amount of rain it receives ? The answer to this question was at- tempted by taking two stations at equal height above the sea, but separated be- tween fifteen and twenty miles, the one situated in a wooded, and the other in a cultivated country, and obsei^ving the rain-fall. The result, reduced to inches, was, that at the agricultural station the rain-fall for the three seasons was 82.02 inches, and at the forest Station, 93.13 inches; difference in favor of the forest station, 11.11 inches. 2. Does the covert of the forest, by intercepting the rain falling from the atmcsphere, diminish to a considerable extent the amount of rain that reached the ground? This was answered by placing rain- gauges beneath the trees, and in the open ground close at hand, and com- l^aring results, which were as follows: In the open ground, 92.09 inches; un- der the trees, 87.74 — excess in open ground, 4.35. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 89 This shows that while some of the raiu-fall iu the forest does not reach the ground, still, by comparing what did reach it with the result at the agri- cultural station, we have 87.74 inches for the rain-fall under the trees, and 82.02 inches for the fall at the agricult- ural station, an excess of 5.72 inches in the forest. 3. What is the effect of a wooded country on the conservation of the moisture received by the soil? The answer was sought from a com- parison of the evaporation from two equal vessels, one placed in the forest, the other in the open ground. Evap- oration went on five times as rapidly, taking the whole year into considera- tion, in the open ground as in the for- est, tanging from three to six times between April and July. Eighty-five per cent, of the rain falling from the oi:)en field evaporated, while only 22 per cent, of that falling in the forest was lost. 4. What is the influence of forests upon temperature ? The experiments in this direction had been conducted but a short time, but go to show that the mean annual tem- perature in the woods is lower than in the open country, and that the differ- ence is least in winter and greatest in summer. In 1868 the mean tempera- ture of the forest was lower than that of the open fields by 4 deg. 35 min. in the morning, and 9 deg. 33 min. at night in July; which difference fell in December to 48 min. in the morning, and 49 min. at night. Again, the aver- age variation in temperature was much greater in the open countiy than under cover of the forest, between day and night. It ranged from 05 min. to 8 deg. 57 min. in the open air, but only from 04 min. to 1 deg. 22 min. in the forest. — Western BuraL EEPOETS OF SOCIETIES. Bat District Agricultural Society. — The Annual Fair of this Society will be held in this city at Agricultural Park, in September, commencing on Monday, 8th, and continuing six days, including Saturday, loth. The Society are mak- ing extensive arrangements to make it one of the most attractive exhibitions ever held iu the State. FAIRS AND EXHIBITIONS. Bay District Horticultural Society. The Horticultural Society has arranged to hold a Spring Exhibition, which will open on May 1st, 1873. This will be a novel feature, and has many excellent points in its favor. Although this will be chiefly a floral show, as announced by the advertisement on another page, it will be superior in many respects to an autumn exhibition. The foliage of plants and trees present a much fresher appearance when exhibited earh- in the season, and many varieties of flowering plants will be in full bloom by the 1st of May, which are a thing of the past in autumn. We anticipate a grand show; and if the florists, the nursery- men, and the amateur gardeners will participate more generally than has been the case at former exhibitions, it will prove the most attractive display of the kind we have ever had here. An extensive list of premiums will be awarded to those children who received plants from the Horticultural Society during the exhibition of last autumn, and who shall exhibit them at the com- ing fair. Over two thousand plants have been given away, and if only one-fourth of them are in good healthy condition, they will form a very interesting feature in the exhibition. Every one who feels any interest, 90 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTIJEIST. either direct or indirect, in the progress of Floriculture and Horticulture, should endeavor, by every means in his or her power, to make the enterprise a com- plete success, and an honor to the com- munity. F, A. Miller, Secretary. OUR EXCHANGE TABLE. We have before us Nos. 1 and 2 of Volume II of what appears to us to be a very excellent serial, exclusively de- voted to poultry. The illustrations are of more than ordinary merit, and the various articles, both original and se- lected, are replete with solid information on the specialty of this magazine, which should be in the hands of every poultiy keeper. We wish we had the first vol- ume on our own book-shelves. The Poultry World is published by H. H. Stodard, Hartford, Conn. Price, §1.25 per year. The Boston Journal of Chemistry, de- voted to the science of Home Life, etc., is evidently a veiy useful magazine, containing much valuable information. Published by Billings, Clapp & Co., 34 Oliver Street, Boston. $1 per annum. The Blilioauhee Monthly, is a very readable serial. Price, $1 per annum. Published by T. J. Gilmore, Milwau- kee, Wisconsin. American Farmer's Advocate, publish- ed at Jackson, Tenn. $1 per annum. National in its character, and worthy of support. Live Stock Journal, a very excellent work on its specialty. Published by Haas, Kelley & Co., 191 Water Street, New York. Subscription, $2 per year. The West, a very valuable monthly, devoted to the development of the re- gion which its name typifies. Published by John H. Carmany & Co., San Fran- cisco. $1 per annum. Replete with useful information. Journal of the Farm. This is an illus- trated rural and family monthly. Pub- lised by Daniel Baugh, Philadelphia. Terms, $1 per annum. Agricultural and horticultural intelligence, and also much useful and scientific information. Gardener's Monthly. Published by Chas. H. Brinkloe, 314 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia. SubscriiDtion, $2.00 per annum. This is one of our most es- teemed horticultural magazines, full of information and valuable suggestions. Central Union Agriculturist. Publish- ed by Jeremiah Behm, Omaha, Nebras- ka. Price, $1.50 per annum. An excellent agricultural journal, full of useful matter, with less of the ii'relevant than nine-tenths of its compeers. CATALOGUES EECEIVED. We are in receipt of Wholesale Price List of the Bloomington Nurseiy, F. K. Phoenix, Proprietor. Also, Wholesale Price List of " Biy- ant's Nurseries," Princeton, 111. A, Bryant, Jr., Proprietor. We have to hand Semi-Annual Trade List, for Spring of 1873, of Hoopes Brother & Thomas, Cherry Hill Niu'se- ries. West Chester, Pa. We have received from Briggs & Bro- ther, nurserymen, florists, and seeds- men, of Rochester, N. Y. , their beau- tifully illustrated Quarterly Catalogue. This is a most interesting work, con- taining three finely colored plates and upward of 400 cuts of flowers, plants, etc. It is a most comprehensive oata- logue, containing much valuable infor- mation, and got up in a truly artistic style on tinted paper. The quarterly series is offered for 25 cents a year. THE CALIFOEXIA HORTICULTUKIST. 91 ■with several other most enticing offers regarding seeds, etc., -uhich can be studied out on obtaining the catalogue. Tick's Illustrated Floral Guide, for 1873. This, also, is a very superior and highly decorated catalogue of plants, seeds, and bulbs, profusely illustrated, and accompanied with copious instruc- tions and descriptions. This, too, is a quarterly, offered at 25 cents per annum for the four numbers, and suggests ad- vantageous modes of arranging for the supply of seeds, etc. FAVOKS EECEIVED. We have received two works on Bee Culture : Annals of Bee Culture, for 1872, price 50 cents, and Progressive Bee CultijLre, price 25 cents, which ap- pear to contain much valuable informa- tion on the subject. We recommend them to the attention of all aparians. They can be obtained from the author and editor, D. L. Adair, of Hawesville, Illinois. Also, American Bee Journal, for Jan- uary, 1873, a monthly journal. Sub- scription, §2 per annum in advance. Published by the editor and proprietor, W. F. Clarke, Chicago, 111. Our thanks are due to the Commis- sioner of Agriculture for the monthly report for January, 1878. Much valua- ble information and interesting statis- tics contained. ' We are in receipt of the March num- ber of the Overland. It contains more than its usual average of excellent and entertaining articles. Always keep a supply of lime or finely broken bone within convenient reach of your poultry. NEW AND EAKE PLANTS. New Lily — Lilium Leichtlinii. The origin of this Lily is unknown. Messrs. Veitch & Sons, the well known English nurserymen, found a bulb of it among some L. auratums, which they received from Japan a few years since, and J. D. Hooker, Curator of the Kew Gardens, named it after Max Leichtlin, of Carls- ruhe, a gentleman who has paid especial attention to the introduction and cult- ure of Lilies. This new Lily resembles, in some respects, the common Tiger Lily in the form of the flower, but differs from it not only in the color but grace- ful habit of the plant. The flowers are solitary but numerous, four inches in diameter, nodding; bright, light golden or lemon yellow, spotted or blotched with maroon. The bulbs appear to be perfectly hardy, and the j)lant altogether a vigorous grower and j^rofuse bloomer. This Lily bloomed for the first time in this country last summer, on the grounds of Mr. C. L. Alen, near Brooklyn, N. Y. — Rural Carolinian. Junipems Chinensis aurea— ro?m^'s Neio Golden Chinese Juniper. The Gar- dener's Chronicle says: "Certainly one of the foremost places among golden- leaved Conifers must be accorded to Mr. Maurice Young's Janiperus Chinensis aureus. The Chinese Juniper is well known as one of the hardiest and hand- somest of coniferous shi'ubs, and when we state that the novelty just referred to is the exact counterpart of its parent, in all but its color, and that color is equal at least in richness of hue to any golden Conifer hitherto known, but little further mention of it is needed. We may however add, from a recent personal inspection of the stock, that it is thoroughly constant. Not a plant among the entire stock shows the least tendency to run back, but all, whether 92 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. infants of six inches or adolescents of three feet high, ajipear in the same aristocratic 'cloth-of-gold' array. * * * Our notes indicate that the j)ropagated plants take on a close pyramidal habit, and have moreover the two-fold char- acter of foliage which is seen in the parent, and that the color of the more prominent portions of the plants is as bright as the tint of a Golden Holly. Taking these various points into ac- count, and coupling with them the free- growing, hardy character of the plant, there is no exaggeration in pronouncing this novelty to be one of the best and most desirable of ornamental Conifers. " Crocus Scharojani — Indacce. A pretty, hardy, autumn-flower bulb, re- lated to C. Siiivaroivicmus, and produc- ing its blossoms before the leaves aj)- pear. The flowers are of a deep saffron color, and are developed in the early auttimn months. It is found in the western Caucasus, and has been intro- duced to the St. Petersburg Botanic Garden. — Gardener's Monthly. New Japan Cockscomb — Celosia Ja- po7iica. This is a very elegant variety imported from Ja]3an last year. The plant from the root to the smallest leaf- vein, with the exception of the green blade of the leaf, is of brilliant scarlet crimson; the combs are exceedingly rich, bright and elegant. James Vick, of Rochester, N. Y., seems to possess the stock of this desirable plant. Dicentranthera macrophylla — Acan- thacce. An ornamental stove shrub, with very large obovate lanceolate leaves, and terminal erect spikes a foot long, of handsome bilabiate bell-shaped flow- ers, which are rosy purple externally, and almost pure white within. It comes from tropical Africa, and has been raised and flowered in the Glasneviu Botanic Garden. — Gardener's Monthly. AmpelosiS DiSSecta— Vitaccv. A slen- der and very elegant free-growing hardy climbing shrub, furnished with long reddish branches, which bear palmi- sected leaves having pinnatifid segments, so that the leaves closely resemble in form the fronds of Litobrochia pedata. It bears small, roundish, bluish, glau- cescent fruits. Two or three varieties of the plant have been introduced from China to the Jardin du Museum at Paris. — Gardener's Monthly. New Variegated Cockscomb— Cetosia aristata variegafa. This is an exceed- ingly beautiful novelty, originating at Erfurt, Prussia. The contr&,st of rich, deep crimson and golden yellow with lacings and fringings of light crimson is very brilliant and attractive. We are assured that the plant is perfectly con- stant in character. Briggs & Brother, of Rochester, N. Y., appear to have the exclusive sale of this superb novelty. Thujopsis Standishii.— Introduced from Japan in 1861, by Mr. Fortune, who discovered it growing near Yeddo. it somewhat resembles the T. dolabrata in its general appearance. Its leaves are smaller, of a bright glossy green above, and a dull glaucous color below; its branches are slender and^endulous. It is quite hardy, and, like its congener, of slow growth, at least when young, requiring apparently similar treatment to T. dolahrata. — A. Fowler, Castle Ken- nedy, in Gardener's Chronicle. Primula Japonica— (()i«?e/i of the Prim- roses). This hardy new Japan Primrose is one of those genuine acquisitions to our floral wealth that occurs only at rare intervals, and in the hands of hy- bridizers it will probably become the parent of a series of new varieties that will play an important part in the spring decoration of the flower garden. A Pi'imrose growing to the height of 18 THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTUEIST. 93 inches, and producing wboii above whorl of flowers of a rich magenta col- or, each flower measuring from half an inch to an inch in diameter, is likely to reverse all our previous notions of Primroses. The sentiment of humble beauty universally attached to the com- mon Primrose can not be applied to this variety, which may be said to as- sume magnificent proportions. It is, par excellence, a plant for the amateur, for its great beauty, its hardiness, and its free-seeding qualities, while its cult- ure is of the easiest kind. Strong plants should be at once planted in any deep, rich, garden soil; and, although it is believed to be perfectly hardy, it might be well, until a stock is in hand, to plant it where some slight natural protection is afforded. By mid-winter the whole of the large handsome leaves will have decayed, and a few only of the smallest will be left to mark the heart of the plant. This being its habit, no uneasiness need be felt; but when in this state, should the weather be un- usually severe, it may be well to invert a pot or pan filled with dry leaves over the crown : immediately the weather moderates, this must be removed. A plant treated in this manner last winter, threw up a veiy strong flower - stem in the spring, and was altogether the finest we have yet seen. It produced eight whorls of its love- ly flowers in succession, one above the other, and from it was gathered nearly a quarter of an ounce of good seed. Coddling should be strictly avoided, for the only failure of a good bloom we have noted resulted from over careful- ness in the matter of protection. The most effective way of propagation is by division of plants after blooming, as it secures strong blooming plants for the next season. In most cases every bloom spike will cause the plant to multiply Vol. III.— 13. by two. When these offshoots are of a good size the jDlant should be taken up and divided, each crown with its own portion of roots. Replant in good soil in a half shady border, from whence, when the plants are well established, they should be removed with large balls to the situation in which it is desired they should bloom. — Gardener's Montldy, Perpetual Flowering Tree Carna- tion, La Belle. — The forerunner of a new race of varieties. The flowers, of the purest white, are very large and smooth, perfectly double, and delight- fully fragrant, and are produced, all the year round, in such profusion, that one or more jslants should be grown wherever cut blooms are in request. — Gardener's Magazine. White Calycanthus. — Mr. Berck- mans reports in the Farmer and Gar- dener that a white flowered variety of the Calycanthus has been discovered in middle Georgia. It blooms continu- ously till frost. This sweet shrub will be in great demand by the cut-flower folk, as we should judge it would force easily through winter. A Purple-leaved Birch has been found by some one connected with the firm of Transon Bros., Orleans, France, and is now under propagation. It is a variety of Betula alba. NEW FEUITS AND VEGETABLES. New Eaelt Peach. — Among the many new and valuable Peaches originated by that well known fruit-grower, Thomas Rivers, of Sawbridge worth, England, is one known as the Early Beatrice. It has been fruited by S. Gr. Bilgeu, of North Carolina, who says it does not rot, is of good size and color, and of superior quality — riijcning two weeks earlier than Hale's Early. It can be 94 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. obtained from Ellwanger & Barry in the coming autumn. — Ohio Farmer. The "Pond Pear." — This is the name given to a new Pear by Dr. S. A. Shurt- leff, of Brookliue, Mass. The Doctor has been introducing new Pears for many years, some of which are valuable acquisitions to the list of American va- rieties. The "Pond" is of medium size, has a rich, sugary flavor, and would be highly esteemed by persons who pre- fer sweet Pears to those of a sub-acid, or vinous flavor. — New England Farmer. Gardeners should not forget that some of their choicest flowers are borne by plants that are virulently poisonous, and that all necessary operations con- nected with these should be carried out .with much care and caution. There is a warning illustration, from the Kentish Gazette of February 4th. Mr. Stephen Maple, under-gardener to F. Phillips, Esq., Lee Priory, Wingham, has met his death under singular circumstances. .He was training a creeping plant of a poisonous nature (probably a Euphor- bia), when he was pricked in the hand by one of the thorns. Mortification set in, and he died in great agony four days afterward. He was 77 years of age. — Gardener's Chronicle. Zanthoxylon frceineum for Hedges. We see the Prickly Ash named as a hedge plant. It is thorny enough, but surely it can not everywhere be as troublesome in the way of suckers as it is wherever we have known it, or no one would be found to say a word in its favor. — Gardeners' Monthly. There have been 27,000 distinct species of insects catalogued in Europe that pray upon wheat. CULTURE OF VERBENAS. To grow Verbenas well it requires a good bed in the right place. But it should be where there is plenty of sun- shine, as they will not succeed in the shade. Any good, sufficiently deep, rich and friable soil will grow them. A lawn, too, is a fine place for them. Cut out a round bed, or any other shape desirable, on a lawn or grass-plat; in- vert the sods and place them in the bottom of the bed ; put six or eight inches of good soil on the surface; set a good plant of double Zinnia, or a Geranium, in the centre. Buy or beg a dozen or more of good, strong growing plants, not high-spindling affairs (par- ticularly if you have to buy them); set them two feet apart in the bed. If they are not pot plants, set them so that the bottom of the Verbena will be six inches deep. If the plant is branching as it should be, bend ofi" the branches in a slanting position, and fill in the centre with soil nearly to the surface; water freely to settle the soil around the roots, and then fill wp the space with dry soil to prevent baking. Peg down the plants as they spread, and keep the soil well cultivated, and, of course, free from weeds. You will then have a fine bed of Verbenas. If you should want to grow good seedlings, get good plants to begin with. The best Verbenas pro- duce the best seed, especially the scent- ed and red colors, just as the best Peaches do, but you can not entirely rely on either. The probability is you will be satisfied with the finest that have been already raised, without troub- ling yourself about your own seedlings. This is more the prorince of the profes- sional florist. When you are tired of your Verbenas, or they should perish, or grow too rusty and black, you can spade them in, and this process will enrich THE CALIFOENIA HOETICULTURIST. 95 the soil sufficiently, especially if done yearly. The plants that have blue, purple, and white colors have the most seed,, and the flowers of most of them are sweet-scented. A few years past a fragrant Verbena was a novelty. We have now quite a variety of them. Gather your seeds early in the morning when the dew is on, or after a shower. Do not use heating manure, as it will make the plants rusty-black. The bright and showy flowers of the Ver- bena, make it the most popular bedding plant in cultivation. We here give the names of a few of the best: Verbe- na Hybrida, Auricular Flowered, New Striped Italian, Pure Blue, Pure Scar- let, Montana, Blue Bonnet, Gail Ham- ilton, President, Queen of Stripes, King of Scarlets, Grand Victor, King of Purples, Snow Flake, Scarlet Circle; with endless others, old and new. — Pacific Bu7xd Press. WORK FOR THE MONTH. BY F. A. MILLER. Spring time is upon us, and the rainy season will soon draw to a close. Much work remains to be done yet, before the dry season commences. The present season has been one of the most favorable for the planting of trees and shrubs, and for outdoor im- provements. Farmers have had ample time to get in their seeds, and from all accounts, the fields and the gardens never looked better. This condition is most encouraging for every one who has a direct or indirect interest in the welfare of California, and would warrant some attention to the improving and adorning of country homes. I am sorry to say that the planting of trees, and shrubs, and flowers for ornament, has not been carried on upon so extensive a scale, as was anticipated ; our people seem to move slowly in all enterprises not calculated for immediate returns. There is yet time to plant a few trees. They can be obtained cheaply, and our nurserymen have plenty of them. Those who desire to plant during March and AjDril, should take the precaution of mulching, unless water can be had for irrigation during summer. I call attention again to the various trees mentioned in my communication of last month, all of which are well adapted to our climate. Under all cir- cumstances, I would insist upon plant- ing young trees instead of old ones ; in three years from now, the difference in size between these young and older trees will hardly be noticed. In transplanting trees, I would call attention to the condition in which the roots of trees should be to insure their growing. Nurserymen understand all this, but many of our farmers and ama- teur gardeners do not. The general rule is, that evergreen trees and shrubs should be transplanted with the ball of earth in which they have grown, while a deciduous tree or shrub {%. e. trees and shrubs which shed their leaves in autumn; as the Apple, the Elm, the Maple, etc.), can be safely transplanted without having any earth attached to the roots. An evergreen tree, there- fore, may be transplanted at any time, provided that all the earth penetrated by its roots is moved with it. But in- asmuch as this is not easily accom- plished, as it would require too much arduous labor to do it, and as some soil will not adhere well to the roots, particularly in summer time^ the most favorable time for transjDlanting is dur- ing the early winter season, when most of the evergreen trees are at rest, and new fibres may be formed during the latter part of our rainy season. If 96 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. evergreens, therefore, are transplanted early in the rainy season, a compara- tively small amount of soil attached to their roots will make the removal safe. However, there are some evergreens, such as Eucalyptus (Gum tree), and the Acacia, which are not apt to grow and do well, if any of their roots are disturbed by the removal ; and our nurserymen, therefore, are in the habit of cultivating them in pots or boxes, which is really the only safe, and cer- tainly the best method. I was not a little surprised that the Pacific Rural Press, some time since, published an article in favor of raising Eucalyptus in the open ground, and denouncing the practice of raising them in pots or boxes, their theory being illustrated by one representation showing the action of the roots if grown in pots ; and an- other representing the roots of a tree grown in the open ground. The fact is, that the representation of the spiral root shows that that particular tree had been retained in entirely too small a pot for its size. Any plant or tree which is for too long a time confined in a veiy small-sized pot, is unfit for transplant- ing. The practice of raising Eucalyp- tus and Acacias in pots or boxes is the only correct one, provided they are shifted into larger pots or boxes when the size of the tree and the condition of the roots requii'e it. The Cypress, the Pine, the Juniper, and other coniferous trees, can suffer the loss of some small roots in transplanting, and, if very young, they may be transplanted with safety into the open ground without any earth around their roots; but the Euca- lyptus or Acacias will perish unless they are protected from the sun for some days. This is the proper time for sowing seeds of all kinds of trees and shrubs. They should be sown in pots or boxes. covered with glass, and placed in a warm situation. Hardly any evergreen tree or shrub seed will germinate in the open air in this climate. In the vegetable garden, no time should be lost to sow all kinds of veg- etable seeds which are desirable. The present time is also favorable to the planting of Asparagus roots. Rhubarb, Horseradish, etc. If a few plants of early Cabbage can be obtainable, they should be planted in freshly prepared soil. Asparagus and Rhubarb beds re- quire a careful overhauling. They are about to make their appearance. Planting of spring bulbs is still in order; I have also planted some Gladio- lus for early flowering. Look after the Pseonies and Lilies, which are now be- ginning to show their foliage; their young and tender shoots are apt to be broken off by inexj)erienced or careless hands. The place where they are planted should always be marked by a proper stake or label. Many plants of the greenhouse will soon show rapid growth and develop- ment ; examine them, and if the roots are spreading around the outside of the ball of earth in which they grow, it is a strong indication of the necessity for shifting them into larger^ots. If the weather be warm and pleasant, all plants will require more water than they have had during winter time, and frequent airing. Cork Oak. — A correspondent, dating at Alhambra, California, rej)orts that the acorns of the Cork Oak, distributed by this Department a few years since, have done well, and expresses the opin- ion that a new supply would be care- fully improved, in view of prospective profitable results. — Monthly Report of Department of Agriculture. THE CALIFOKNIA HOKTICULTUEIST. 97 EEPORT ON THE FRUIT MAEKET. BY E. J. HOOPEE. The value of good fruit, as an article of food, can not be overrated. It is now beginning to be justly appreciated, and is not considered, as it once was, an almost superfluous luxury, and only eaten very sparingly between meals, or after a liearty meal of meat, vegetables, and pastry; and tben, only, because there was room for a little more. It is now pretty well understood, that fruit is best eaten freely between meals; either before, or an hour or two after breakfast, and even frequently at other times, jDrovided it is not just before go- ing to bed, as it does not then agree with many persons. Formerly, also, it was too frequently supposed that fruit should be chiefly stewed, and a quantity of sugar and spices added, in- stead of being, as now, mostly consumed in its natural state. The sun is really the best cook for most, if not for all kinds of fruit. Nature understands her business, and the aj)petites and instincts of children are almost universally pure, and they always choose uncooked fruits, as do those nations whom we — in our self-as- sumed superiority and pride, perhaps, call uncivilized. The inhabitants of the tropic isles subsist almost entirely upon fruits, eating them just as they are plucked from the trees or vines. And where beneath the sun (if they do not get hold of alcoholic drinks from us), do we find such healthy persons as they? During our civil war, when our sol- diers ate all the peaches, apples, pears, grapes, berries, and melons they could lay their eager hands upon, they were speedily cured of fevers, dj'senteries, and even chronic diarrhcea, the surgeons to the contrary notwithstanding. There is still a considerable prejudice in the minds of many persons against the free use of fruit, supposing it to be a fruitfitl source of worms and summer complaints in children. To be con- vinced of their unfortunate error, they have only to see children in the coun- try, where they have generally an abundance of fruit. They eat it before breakfast and after breakfast, before dinner and after dinner, at all hours of the day, and not unfrequently munch Apples or Pears after they are in bed. City children often suft'er from eating unripe fruit (and there is too often, un- fortunately, too much of that in the market, and it is too frequently not fresh enough), in large quantities, or from eating an excess at one time one day, and having none for many days at other times. What a blessing it is that all our markets in California possess such a profuse plenty and great variety of fruits and vegetables ; but, like all things free to our j^ossession, our plen- ty is hardly appreciated or improved. Those of our readers who can not go to . the country to reside, can welcome the country to their larders and their kitchens. Good housekeepers, of what- ever length or weight their purses may be, can find in the early morning mar- kets, indeed, at almost at any time, the equivalent of a country excursion, adapted precisely to their means, be they greater or less. Fresh, nice fruits and vegetables, carefully selected, prop- erly prepared, and judiciously served, are better than medical remedies for disease, inasmuch as they are prevent- ives, when used in moderation. By a proper and systematic mode of living, good housekeepers can and do improve the best advantages of the country, without the toil of moving, or the ex- pense of traveling. Of course, for 'JG THE CALIFORNIA dUTICrLTURIST. ever^'roeiis, tliorefore, are transplanted early in the rainy seaKon, a compara- tively BHiall amount of soil attached to their roots will make the removal safe. However, there are some evergreens, such as Eucalyptus (Gum tree), and the Acacia, which are not apt to grow and do well, if any of their roots are disturbed by the removal ; and our nursoxes is th only correct one, provided they ai' shifted into larger pots or boxes when the size of the tree and the condition the roots require it. The Cypress, t Pine, the Juniper, and other conift i trees, can siifter the loss of soni roots in ti-ansplanting, an young, they may be ti-anspl safety into the open gnmnd eai'th !Vvoxu\d their ivots; b lyptus or Acacias will pori are pivtectod fi\nn the days. This is the pn^y seeds of all ki Thev should overed with glass, and p /arm situation. Hardly an rt e or shrub seed will gt r pen air in this climate. In the vegetable gri^ bould be lost to so v. table seeds which :■.. •resent time is als' tbinting of Aspara. lorseradish, etc. arly Cabbage c r Itould he plan* «oil. Asparn/ |uire a care: ibout to mal Planting )rder ; I lus for ( . 1 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 99 (fiomjsipottckttrc. To the Editor of the California Horticulturist : Dear Sir: — Permit me to call your attention to what appears to me to be a serious defect iu horticultural literat- ure— the absence of any rudimentary instruction book, which will enable the inexperienced cultivator to make a cor- rect start in his gardening operations. For example, the usual formula, "Let the soil be properly prepared," is the very stumbling-block of the beginner, who needs to know just what that means. Amateur. To the Editor of the California Horticxdturist. Dear Sir: — In the Pacific Rural Pi^ess for the 15th of February, I notice a few appropriate remarks, addressed to the Horticultural Societies of this State, in general, and to the Bay District Horti- cultural Society in particular, respect- ing their self-imposed duties, and the manner in which they perform them. The writer's suggestions are very good and friendly, and they are also critical. I hojDe they will have the effect of arousing the slumberers, and stimulating the Secretaries to report something- more of their transactions than that they meet, read the minutes, and ad- journ, which is about all we heax of them through your Magazine, which ap- pears to be their medium of intercourse with the outer world. The practical experience of such a body of men ought to be of great value to the floricultural community of California, if they are public-spirited enough to give it ; if not, of what use are they ? In the same number of the Rural Press is an article on flowers, very good in its way; but what vile spelling, and how absurd to assume the position of a floricultural serial without a botanical dictionary in stock. I wish you would be a little more ex- plicit in your information respecting the management of the smaller bedding plants. The Verbena, for instance; should it be pegged down to the soil? How and when should it be pruned, or should it be cut at all? Is it necessary to renew the plants every season? Your early reply will greatly oblige Philoflora . San Francisco, Februaiy, 1873. aErtitanitl Cf^kiittit^si. Rough Cork for Rustic Work. — Some few years since, a company, own- ing large Cork forests in Portugal, in- troduced for rustic work, and other horticultural purposes, a quantity of Virgin Cork. This first crop of the bark of the Cork Oak {Quercus suber) is very rugged and uneven upon its outer surface ; it is, moreover, of a dusky grey color, is frequently cover- ed with Lichens, and has altogether a weather-worn aspect — all which aj^pear- ances recommend it for the purposes for which it was introduced. Besides its uses, however for growing Ferns and Orchids upon, it is much used for imitation rock-work in aquariums, and its latest application was for a similar purpose, but on a much more gigantic scale, for in the pantomime which has been played at the Crystal Palace, we understand the rock-work was formed of this Virgin Cork. The more general utilization of this Cork in Europe must be a great advantage to the owners of the Spanish and Portuguese cork for- ests, as, from the fact of the cork being uneven, comparatively hard, and full of holes, it is useless for bottle corks. This virgin or original bark is usually taken from the tree when it is about twenty- five or thirty years old, and it is removed with much care, so as not to injure the 100 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTUIIIST. inner bark, which, of course, would in- terfere with the formation of the second crop, besides injuring the tree itself. After the removal of the first crop, the following crops are taken off about every eight or ten years, but the third and succeeding crops are of the best quality, and consequently the most valuable. A remarkably fine specimen of cork, stripped in one piece from a tree which grew in the Sierra Morena, Estremadura, has lately been presented to the Kew Museum. When we state that it is five feet nine inches high, and eight feet eight inches in circumference, it will be seen that the tree from which it has been taken was of no mean size. — Gardener's Chronicle. Preserving Action of Boracic Acid. — It has been found that boracic acid has a preservative action upon milk and beer, and it is stated that one gramme added to a quart of milk keeps it sweet and fresh in hot summer weather for one hundred and twenty hoiu's, while milk not treated in this way will become sour in thirty-six hours. The addition of boracic acid to milk does not injure it for use, but the cream is separated far more slowly. The Apple "Worm in California. — A few specimens of the CorjMCopsa jyomana have at length been captured in Cali- fornia. It is believed that the present comparative immunity from eastern in- sects will not last long in the Golden State. — Gardeners' Monthly. "Wisteria versus Flies. — A New York housekeeper has discovered that the Wisteria creeping plant will keep out house-flies. The pestiferous insect will not enter a window where one of these creepers is growing. Camellia Culture — use of Lime Wa- ter.— Mrs. G. W. Cari^enter, in the Gar- dener's Monthly, says: "In regard to the watering of Camellias with lime water, the facts are as follows: The plants are grown in large pots, and have been in them undisturbed for several years. A large reservoir on the place, contain- ing 500 gallons of water, receives an- nually about three bushels of lime; be- fore watering the plants, the lime is usually well stirred uj) with the water, allowing it to settle before use. Lime water was first used to kill worms in the soil, which it effectually did. It has since been continued regularly; the thriving, healthy appearance of both roots and branches seeming to warrant its use." Germination of Primula Japonica. — The folloAving is the result from my ex- perience in sowing seed of this noble flower: Of seed haiwested here, from two plants in pots, completely ripe on July 15th, I sowed half on July 19th, the young plants appearing on August 30th. The rest of the seed was sown on Sej)tember 25th, but no plants are as yet visible. The pans were placed in a cold frame, and the soil kept moderate- ly moist. Of the first sowing, I have now a pan with twenty-five or thiiiy nice little plants, pricked out a month ago. P. Gloede Eppendorf, Hamburg. Bulb Culture in Holland. — Although one -fifth of the entire land in the Netherlands is worthless for cultiva- tion, and another fifth is meadow-land, yet 47,500 acres of the remainder are devoted to tobacco, 35,000 to hemp, and 500 acres to raising Tulips, Hyacinths, and other flowering bulbs. Holland has ever excelled in this sort of horti- culture.— Popular Science Monthly. THE CALIFORNIA HORTIIIULTURIST. ler bark, which, of course, would in- fere with the formation of the second ip, besides injuring the tree itself. ;er the removal of the first crop, the lowing crops are taken off about ;ry eight or ten years, but the third :1 succeeding crops are of the best ality, and consequently the most uable. A remarkably fine specimen cork, stripped in one piece from a e which grew in the Sierra Morena, tremadura, has lately been presented the Kew Museum. When we state it it is five feet nine inches high, and fht feet eight inches in circumference, rt'ill be seen that the tree from which has been taken was of no mean size. Gardener's Chronicle. Preserving Action or Boeacic Acid. — has been found that boracic acid has preservative action upon milk and er, and it is stated that one gramme ded to a quart of milk keeps it sweet tl fresh in hot summer weather fo) e hundred and twenty hours, whi^ Ik not treated in this way will beco: ar in thirty-six hours. The addil boracic acid to milk does not h for use, but the cream is sepo ; more slowly. The Apple Worm in Califo «v specimens of the Corpacoj l^at length been capture ^^ It is believed that ^^■■ative immunity fro^ ^Kvill not last long ^m. — Gardeners' Moni Wisteria versus Fi )usek( ^ist€ Camilia Culture- TER. — :rs. G. W. Car dener'slfonthly, says wateriif of Camel' the fas are as are gran in lar in ther undist A largareserv ing 50(gallr nually bou fore wtei usuallyjv^ allowin water soil, -^l since thriv root its iOlk » ^ «K ■ T ■ •<. ■•- «* -r V v AND vlJJR ^;rt •' ^: £t v^- the li^ouPi boundary oi' me ''-*'th,vard from i , and about eu' level of tbe 1). i Keith and en.. to tbeii oAD- bathe v.- 102 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUBIST. gracefully festooned with the gray Spanish Moss or the "dark, druidical Mistletoe," and which command respect for their stately pre-eminence, dignity of strength, and inviting fullness of shade, constituting them elders amid the mod- ern growths — a barrier to the tempest, and a solace from the sunburst. "Not a prince In all that proud old world beyond the deep E'er wore his crown as loftily as these Wear the green coronal of leaves with which His grace has crowned them." Other trees of lesser growth, with tops as wide-spread as those that grace the English lawns — some having arms gnarled and shaggy, and others with boughs that droop as gracefully as Wil- lows, or the Eastern Elm — adorn the open grounds. The Eucalyptus (Australian Gum) tow- ers high above its neighbor, the Mount- ain Pine, in its graceful aspiring. The Italian Cypress adds an exotic charm to the natural scenery, and the Palm-tree, the Almond, the Olive, and the Orange (growing from seeds here sown), give variety to the view, and testify at once to the semi-tropical mildness of the climate and the generous fertility of the soil. Along the ravines and gulches, and overshadowing the walks, are the Buck- eye {jEscuIus Californica), redolent of perfume; the brilliant Laurel (Areo- daphne Californica), a fine evergreen wdth fragrant leaves; the Ash (Fraxinus Oregana); the large-leaved Maple {Acer macrophylla); and, most magnificent of all, the Madrona (Arbutus Menziesii), with bright green waxen leaves; these, with the flesh-tinted Manzanita, consti- tute the forest scenery of these mount- tain sides. Of the beautiful flowering shrubs, are : the Oeanothus (California Lilac); the Spiraea; the sweet-scented and favor- ite Calycanthus, with color of a deep claret; the Dog-wood (Cornus), con- spicuous for its snowy-white flowers; the Snowberry (Symphoricarjyus) ; the Azalea occidentalis, having deliciously sweet-scented white and yellow flowers in profuse abundance; the Chestnut {Castanea chrysophylla) and the wild Rose. Of Climbers, among many others, we only name the wild California Grape ( Vitis Californica) forming natural and most graceful bowers, as continuous and shady as those of the far-famed Banyan -tree; the Virgin's Bower {Cle- matis), and the Honeysuckle. California Bulbs grow here in great abundance and rich variety. Of the finest, are the Cyclobothra, the Calochor- tus, the Lily, the Brodidixs, the Iris, and others of truly charming colors. Most attractive of all the flowering plants are the Columbine {Aqailegia); the ever-pleasing red Larkspur {Delphi- nium nudicaule); the California Poppy (Eschscholtzia); the Lupin, the Evening Primrose {(Enothera), and the Monkey Flower {3Iimulus glutiyiosus. Along the shady hill-sides the ground is literally covered with our fine Califor- nia ferns, such as the Polypodium, the Adiantum, the Felloea, the Gymnogram- me, the graceful Woodwardia, and the Aspidiuvi. Over a wide extent of wall, on fences and- house-sides, the slow- growing Iv}' and climbing Roses extend themselves. The Lemon Verbena, not a flower -pot plant as in the East, but here a bush six feet high, emits the fullness of its grateful fragrance ; the Loquat invites by the immaculate purity of its white blossoms; and the scarlet berries of the Madrofia, dotting hill and roadside, engage the sight by the con- spicuous brilliancy of their coloring. Numerous living springs of fresh water burst from the mountain sides at THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 103 such an elevation as to send the natural flow over the entire 640 acres which constitute the Springs property ; and throughout the year this water is as cold as though it flowed over subterranean beds of ice. Indian relics found here in abundance indicate that these were chosen spots by the aborigines; and, doubtless, countless times the western Leather Stocking has here brushed aside the leaves, and quaff'ed the spark- ling current at its fountain. Along one side of the property a mountain brook gathers the hill-side offerings of congenial springs, as it curvets and frets itself through canon passes — now loitering to gather fresh strength against a temporary embargo, and then dashing away in a white gush of water-fall — now with swift current dancing about the bends and eddies of sycamore-guarded banks, and again fill- ing the deep rock-encircled pool (where the speckled trout coyly display their beauties, and anon hide themselves away), whose crystal waters temptingly invite to a grateful bath. On the other boundary a rocky gorge resounds with the ripple of numerous streamlets, until the swelling torrent of winter's rain sends the combined waters raging over a perpendicular fall ninety feet in height — a miniature Niagara. Inviting paths — miles in extent — laid out under the personal supervision of F. A. Miller, Esq., landscape gardener, lead, with gentle grade, to the various points of interest — now to a grottoed cave, and anon to a mountain grove — here to a vine-covered bower, and there across a rustic bridge, beneath which living waters leaj) and sparkle — and ter- minate at last at the summit of Castle Peak, beneath whose outlook rolls the whole broad panorama of Napa Valley. Reservoirs, dug from their rocky beds, holding each 200,000 gallons, gather the waters for domestic use; and the stone quarried from the spot supplied the material for the buildings that adorn the premises. An orchard in full bear- ing furnishes varied and abundant fruit; and the vineyai'd, of choicest selection, has proved its merit by the numerous premiums from our State fairs that al- ready indorse its wine. But the feature which most peculiar- ly distinguishes this favored spot, and makes it, therefore, specially attractive, is its Mineral Springs, which have been famous for their curative powers. From the hidden treasury of Nature's chemis- try, in her subterranean laboratories, a perennial flow of about four thousand gallons daily is developed — mingling iron, soda, magnesia, lime, and muriate of soda with free carbonic acid gas, in such happy combination as to impart pleasure, health, and physical improve- ment as the result of their use. From one of these springs is poured forth the article well known in the commercial world as "Napa Soda. The water is bottled and sold just as it flows, pure from Nature's laboratory, with all her sparkling freshness still upon it. No adulteration mars its native health- giving and tonic properties, and its long and continuous use in the market attests its merit. The same elements are held in solution which give to the Carlsbad Springs in Bohemia their rank as the first in the world. A hotel is now pi'ojected for these springs, in place of one destroyed sbme years since by fire; and in> addition to the natural beauty of the situation, the genial, even mildness of the climate, and the attractions of artful ornamentation, one of the greatest, if, indeed, not the first consideration in the minds of visi- tors, will be the medicinal qualities of these waters, that strengthen for active life the hand, the heart, and the mind. 104 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. We can not better close this article, although still too short to more than note generally the features of this lovely place, than by a quotation from the golden letters engraved by Imperial decree above the Springs at Carlsbad : " To suffering man from nature's genial breast A boon transcendent ever mayst thou flow. Blest holy fount, still bid old age to know Beviving vigor; and if health rejDressed Fade in the virgin's cheek, renew its glow For love and joy; and they that in thy wave Confiding trust and thankful lave. Propitious aid, and speed the stranger band, With health and life renewed, unto their native laud. ♦ VASES AND VASE PLANTS. Vases are generally of worked iron or stone, or various imitations of them, and are especially appropriate for gar- dens laid out in the geometric style; but they have a good effect in many other modes of laying out gardens. In all cases they should be large enough to hold sufficient soil to keep the plant in health. We prefer vases rather large than the reverse; for we must enter our protest against the miserable, dished-up plants which are often seen struggling for existence for want of water and earth to grow in. These are all the more necessary in our long dry sum- mers. In natural scenery, either real or imitated, vases should be placed in immediate connection Avith gravel or other walks, or roads, which will form a kind of base for them, or at no great distance therefrom ; or they may be placed on pedestals on low walls, or stone terraces. It does not require ex- pensive plants to create a beautiful combination of form or color, and make them harmonize with the situation they are to fill. A vase filled with common California Ferns produces a most charm- ing effect ; and those who grow exotic Ferns will readily perceive what elegant groups they would make, if transferred to a vase. But these Fern vases should be kept mostly in the shade. Some African or Japanese Lilies, supplied well with water, form fine objects. Their sword-like leaves bend gracefully over the rim of the vase, and crowned with their variously-colored bright flowers, render them as consjoicuous as they are graceful. Phormium tenax. New Zea- land Flax, is another suitable plant for its foliage, as are some of the Yuccas, but these latter must be showing bloom, before they are transferred, when they are really fine objects. There are many other sword -leaved plants, including Gladioluses and Irises, well adiipted for the purpose. Nor should we forget the Acanthus. We will conclude by naming a few creeping plants adapted for planting round the principal: these will creep over the rim, and may then be left eitheir to grow in their own way, or be trained so as to form festoons round the base. Lophospermums, two or three kinds; Maurandyas, blue, red and white; TropcBolum pentaphyllum and specio- sum; Calystegia pubescens; Lysimachia nummularia (White Loosestrife); Cam- panula fragilis; Lobelias erinus and unidenta, and some others, although they do not grow so tall as the former, are usefvil for the smaller vases. But all the above effects can not be accom- plished well, without water being con- venient to supply them copiously daily, with it, in dry weather. The Odors or Plants. — It may be laid down as a general princijile that a larger jjroportion of white flowers are fragrant than those of any other color ; yellow comes next, then red, and lastly blue; after which, and in the same order, may be reckoned violet, green, orange, brown and black. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 105 FLO WEE-TALK.— THE POND LILY. BY NORA BECK, I float on the breast of a dreamy lake, Kecked by the ripples, but always awake. I can not greet the earth-flowers bright, That I know are yonder, out of sight, But I lie content, on the glassy brim, While my sister lilies nod and swim; And so I will float, till I fade and die, Under the blue midsummer sky. I can not greet the flowers of earth. But I know the secret of their birth. Bird-song, and night-wind, and wandering bee. Bring all the news of the woods to me. And the red deer stoops his thirst to slake, By the pebbly marge of this quiet lake. My lover, the sun, in his daily race, Drops kisses of light on my pallid face; While I fling my perfumed incense high, Live and love, then droop and die, Under the blue midsummer sky. GERANIUMS. BY F. A. MILLER. There is no other class of plants which recommends itself so strongly to the lover of flowers, as that which com- prises the various kinds of Geraniums (as they are popularly named), and it seems, indeed, strange that there should exist a strong prejudice at the present time, in California, against their cultiva- tion. I am often told, "They are too common;" "they grow in every yard," etc. I believe, there is some little mis- understanding about these Geraniums, or they would certainly figure as the most desirable plants for very many purposes. In Europe and in the East, Gerani- ums are becoming the universal f avor- ities, and they should be still more in favor with us, when we take into con- sideration that in all mild districts they will continue in flower through summer and winter. The different classes of Geraniums have been so wonderfully improved by art and science, that the old nickname, "Fish Geranium," is entirely out of place now. Geraniums, now-a-daya, are divided into a number of classes, well defined by very distinct peculiarities. It will not do for me to go too deeply into this classification, but I will mention : 1st. Zonale Geraniums, sometimes called Scarlet Geraniums. These are well adapted to our California climate, particulirly on dry soils. Their flowers are of brilliant colors, and continue in bloom throughout the year. For group- ing and in masses they are most effect- ive flowering plants, and shovild be used for that purpose extensively. Of late years really magnificent flowers have been produced. Some of the very best varieties are Black Prince, Charm- er, Cufford Rose, Waltham Seedling, Dr. Lindley, Warrior, Ruby, Transpar- ent, White Perfection, Conqueror, Maid of Kent, La Dame Blanche, Rose Queen, etc. All of these varieties I have now under cultivation, and they have proved their excellent qualities in this climate. 2nd. Double Zonale Oeraniams. When about three years ago the first speci- mens of these really exquisite flowering plants made their appearance here, they were admired by every one, and high prices' were obtained for them. They are a great improvement on the single varieties in man}'^ respects. The flowers of the double Geraniums keep well in bouquets, and are valuable as cut-flow- ers ; they are produced in large trusses, which continue in bloom for many days. Our florists propagated them extensive- ly, and are now prepared to sell them at very low prices. It is annoying that their effoi'ts do not meet with more en- couragement from our lovers of flowers, the sale of them being very limited, in- deed. They flower well in the open air; are well adapted for the green- Miiwi«MMBiMiiiiiiiiiiiiiiMiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiMiiniinMiiHiinnBiniiiiiiiniiiii^!tiBfflflf8BTini n"^ 106 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. house and conservatory, and are very useful for cut-flowers; they are easily cultivated, and are strong growers. Why they are not introduced into every garden, is a mystery to me. I am satis- fied, however, that they will grow more in favor every year. Any of the follow- ing varieties are very desirable : Andrew Henderson, dark crimson flowers, one of the best; Emile Lemoin, scarlet; Gloire de Nancy, carmine ; Rose Chann- aux, scarlet; Triomphe de Lorraine, cherry and carmine, a beautiful variety; William Piitzer, bright scarlet, very effective. All of these may be obtuiued of our florists, and I have found them doing well everywhere ; like all Gerani- ums, they thrive best in a sunny ex- posure with a moderate amount of moisture. 3d. Show OeraniumK (Pelargoniums), popularly known as Lady Washington Geraniums. These j)ruduce largo flow- ers, the upper petals of which ore marked with dark blotches. They pro- duce an abundance of very showy flow- ers throughout the year, except where heavy frosts occur ; but even there the roots will not sufi'er, and will throw up stems again. Although the climate of California varies considerably in differ- ent localities. Geraniums will not en- tirely die out, even in the most noilh- ern and the coldest districts, if a very simple protection is given by throwing a few shovelfuls of fresh manure or straw around the plants during winter. The number of very excellent varieties is considerable. I will mention a few of the best : Madame Rezant, white and lilac; Reiue Hortense, white and crim- son; Snowflake, pure white and ma- roon ; Eugene Cavaignac, carmine ; Splendor, dark crimson, margined white; Spotted Gem, rosy lilac, dark-spotted ; James Odier, carmine and rose ; King of Scarlets, bright scarlet ; Medaille d'Or, amaranth and white; "'ilmer's Surprise, rosy purple, etc., etc 4th. Vari^'jated-leaf Geranium There are few plants which are better dapted to the climate of California, tha these Variegated - leaf Geraniums, fovided that they are not exposed too inch to the heavy winds, which prev.l near San Francisco during summer, ^ut in- asmuch as most of our flower-ardens are sheltered in some way, tV }iQ cultivated here OS well as an-. o. So far, they have been treated aipreen- house plants, but it is evidc! * * *' ir colors display to much b« n- tage, if cultivated in the open a*. The California climate is just wL* they want. I can as-sure those who takan in- terest in flowers, that a good coIlcxioD of these variegated Geranium** is moat pleasing feature of the garden. Tliej require no particular care, no >etter treatment than the common "Fis Ge- ranium," but they are of much ower growth. They delight in a dee] light sandy loam and a sunny exi>osui and reijuire very little moisture. O ac- count of their alow growth, thoi are but a small numl>er of them i our floral establishments. I cultiTai the following, and have good succchx^h them: Sophia Cussack, foliage bi,'ht- green, with a zone of gold and Uck; Mrs. Pollack, bright-red zone, Wted crimson and golden yellow edge; (n len Beauty, foliage very rich yelJoiah green ; Mountain of Snow, beautully margined silver}- white; Beauty of uul- derdale, rich red zone, on golden-fcen foliage; Sophia Dumaresque, hmd golden margin, verj- tlark zone, sLJed scarlet; Sunset, the same as Mrs. 'ol- lack, but brighter ; Attraction, brczed zone, silver edged, verj' fine; ulia unita, carmine zone, margined wite, one of the very best. 5th. Ivy-leaf Geranium, of a climing k«i< »i THE C.iLIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 107 habit. In this class, also, wonderful improvements have been made within the last few years, in regard to the colors of flowers as well as in the coloring of the foliage. They are fast growers, and abundant bloomers, always producing a cheerful and pleasing effect. Excel- lent varieties are : Holly Wreath, TFi7.su grandifora (producing charming flow- ers). Bridal "Wreath ; Aurea variegaia, and L' Elegante. 6th. Sweet-scented Geraynums, which are almost exclusively cultivated on ac- count of their fragrant foliage; as such, they are most desirable, and useful for bouquets, etc. The best are: Aaperum (pennyroyal scented), Tomentosum (pep- permint scented), Balsamewm (balm scented), Gapitatum (rose scented), ' GUriodorum (lemon scented), Fragrans (nutmeg scented). I have. said more, perhaps, about the Geraniums than many of the readers of the Horticulturist may think justifi- able, but the subject is a most import- ant one, and should be followed up. Our lawns, our parks, and our public squares, should be adorned with ex- tensive groups of the various Gerani- ums. Nothing will give a more pleasing and brighter effect, and their cultiva- tion is most simple. Ancient Farms. — The farm of the celebrated Roman Cincinnatus, consist- ed of only four acres, the other three having been lost by becoming security for a friend. Curius, who was celebra- ted for his frugality, and who was three times chosen consul, and'thrice honored with a triumph on returning from a campaign, refused from the j)eople a grant of fifty acres, declaring that he was a bad citizen who would not be contented with the old allowance of seven . — Exchange. PREPARATION OF FLOWER-BORDERS— TEMPERATURE. BY E. J. HOOPER. It is a far too prevalent, and, at the same time, quite an erroneous idea, that the soil in which flowers are intended to be grown need not be very rich. This is, indeed, a grave error. It is necessary to have healthy leaves as ac- cessories to the production of fine flow- ers. These can not be had, unless the soil is made deep and very fertile, with fine decomposed manures. Plants in a flower garden should be each one per- fect, individually, whether presenting itself by contrast separately, or when grouped with others in masses. But plants in an incomplete and unhealthy condition are far too prevalent in most gardens. No real beauty can exist where a deficiency of vigor is apparent in any pai't, nor can fine flowers be produced by insufficiently nourished j)lants. In fact, the very principles of a gardener's art should teach him the necessity of storing sufficient strength in the primary portion of the cultivated plant, its leaves, ere it will be reason- able to expect that blossoms in their greatest beauty can be produced. We may, it is true, also err in the opposite direction, and induce an over-luxuriance or plethora, equally antagonistic to the production of flowers; but, as in all probability ninety-nine cases under the starving system occur to one of its o'^- posite, we may regard the latter as not requiring special notice ; and, besides, the too richly made soil will very speedi- ly find its level. But that flower -borders require at least an annual renewal of composts of some kind, we think, no one will dis- pute— particularly if these beds or borders, as is frequently the case, are filled through the summer pretty thick- 108 THE CALirOKNIA HOKTICULTXJRIST. ly with jilauts, and not uncommonly by a succession of these floral crops. Can a continued reproduction be reasonably exjDected under such an exhausting- system, unless assisted with manure in a liberal manner? Asters, Larkspurs, Stocks, Zinnias, and many other similar plants, all give a decided preference to rich soil; grow- ing in it much larger, producing more flowers, and these of infinitely superior character. Let us advise all who love their gar- dens, and desire to see the occupants in the best possible condition, to thor- oughly manure at the present time. Every vacant piece should have a heavy coat turned in at once; and, also, in the summer, let an application of wood-ash, or vegetable soil, be made at every op- portunity; and, if these are not procur- able, the same kind of manure as used in the spring may be applied. The result will fully repay the little extra trouble. The extremes of temperature, be- tween which cultivated plants will flour- ish, is stated, by experiments, as 32'' and 90*^; below the former, no vegeta- tion, except of Alj)ine regions, can grow. The highest point at which terrestrial plants have been found in a state of nature is 140'^, but, of course, with such cases we have nothing to do, those immediately inviting our atten- tion being within the more limited range first mentioned. We, in California, are particularly favored in respect to tem- perature, having a sufficiently numerous class of plants which flourish luxuriant- ly, both for utility and ornament, to satisfy any reasonable wishes. In San Francisco, we hardly ever have enough frost to do much more than nip severely some of our tender flowers, and the temperature is never so excessively high as to create a debility similar to that induced by intemperate living on the animal frame, and to cause an extension of the tissue, beyond the vital energies of the plant to solidify ; or the ducts to be so gorged with crude saj), as to re- main unassirailated, and the powers of action deranged, enfeebled, and finally stopped ; debility, disease and death en- suing, as a finish and natural end to the immoderate supply of what, whether of heat or moisture, under j^roper regula- tions, would have been the source of life, health, and fruitfulness. It seems to be a singular fact, that the effects of excessive cold resemble those already described as resulting from heat, and with the exception that the tissue is not elongated in an unnaturally low tempe- rature, the analogy holds good through each gradation. The action of very cold winds is equally enervating with that of a hot sun; the juices of the plant are extracted in either case by evapora- tion, and, if continued for any length of time, must prove alike the cause of death. When the temperature of the day is excessive, the evaporation goes on so rapidly as to cause a vacuum in the vessels, and the plant droops or " flags," as it is called; a condition which, if not corrected, either by reducing the light, or by an extra supply of water, is very injurious, and debilitating in its efi'ects. How fortunate for the recovery of plants from this exhaustion is that nat- ural period for their resuscitation — night — the reviving action going on un- interruptedly, so that the excitability of the plant remains undisturbed ; a rule of the most vital consequence, as we may be assured from its occurrence in every region of the universe, and yet more frequently overlooked than per- haps any other law of nature. The Sunflower was brought from Peru. THE CALIFOENIA HOKTICULTURIST. 109 VICTORIAN TREES. The variations of Eucalyptus, in size as well as in habit, are veiy remarkable; for while some species are mere shrubs, and form dense brushes on the mount- ains, there are others which rise to an al- most fabulous height in the deep gullies of Victoria and Western Australia. In Baron F. von Mueller's essay on Aus- tralian vegetation, that eminent botan- ist remarks: "The marvelous height of some of the Australian, and espec- ially Yictorian trees, has become the subject of closer investigation, since of late, particularly through the miners' tracks, easier access has been afforded to the back gullies of our mountain system. Some astounding data, sup- ported by actual measurements, are now on record. The highest tree previ- ously known was a Karri-eucalj'ptus (E. colossea), measured by Mr. Pember- ton "Walcott, in one of the delightful glens of the Warren River of Western Australia, where it rises to ajDproxim- ately 400 feet high. Into the hollow trunk of this Karri, three riders, with an additional pack-horse, could enter and turn in it without dismounting." On the desire of Baron Mueller, " Mr. D. Boyle measured a fallen tree of Eu- calyptus amygdalina, in the deep recess- es of Dandenong, and obtained for it the length of 420 feet, with proportions of width indicated in a design of a monumental structure placed in the ex- hibition of 1866 ; while Mr. G. Klein took the measurement of a Eucalyptus on the Black Spur, ten miles distant from Healesville, 480 feet high. Mr. E. B. Hayne obtained at i)andenong the following measurements of a tree of E. amygdalina: length of stem from the base to the first branch, 295. -feet ;. diameter of the stem at the first branch 4 feet ; length of stem from first branch Vol. hi.— 15. to where its top portion was broken off, 70 feet; diameter of the stem where broken off, 3 feet ; total length of stem up to place of fracture, 365 feet ; girth of stem 3 feet from the surface, 41 feet. A still thicker tree measured, 3 feet from the base, 53 feet in circumference. Mr. Greorge W. Robinson ascertained, in the back ranges of Berwick, the circum- ference of a tree of E. amygdalina to be 81 feet at a distance of 4 feet from the ground, and supposed this Eucaly^Dt, toward the source of the Tarra and Latrobe Rivers, to attain a height of 500 feet. ... It is not at all likely that, in these isolated inquiries, chance has led to the really highest trees, which the most secluded and the least access- ible spots may yet conceal. It seems, however, almost beyond dispute that the trees of Australia rival in length, though evidently not in thickness, even the renowned forest-giants of Califor- nia, Sequoia Wellingtonia, the highest of which, as far as has been ascertained, rise in their favorite haunts at the SieiTa Nevada to about 450 feet. Still, one of the mammoth trees measured, it is said, at an estimated height of 300 feet, 18 feet in diameter. Thus, to Victorian trees, for elevation, the palm must ap- parently be conceded. A standard of comparison we possess in the sjDire of the Minster of Strasburg, the highest of any cathedral of the globe, which sends its lofty pinnacle to the height of 466 feet ; or in the great pyramid of Cheops, 480 feet high, which if raided in our ranges would be overshadowed probably by Eucalyptus trees." Since the publication of these remarks, the report lately furnished by the Victorian Inspector of State Forests, fiilly con- firms all that Baron Mueller has assert- ed respecting the extraordinary dimen- sions of Australian trees: "On pene- trating into many of the secluded spots 110 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. near the source of the Watts, and on the spurs of the ranges in the vicinity, I met with large tracts of valuable tim- ber, enough to supply all ordinary de- mands for many years, if carefully pre- served. In man}^ places, I observed large areas, where the axe of the split- ter is yet unknown, and where the tim- ber averages from 100 to 150 trees per acre, with a diameter of from 2 feet to 6 feet, and from 250 feet to 300 feet in height, the most of which are as straight as an arrow, with very few branches. In some places, where the trees are fewer and at a lower altitude, the "tim- ber is much larger in diameter, averag- ing from 6 feet to 10 feet, and frequent- ly trees of 15 feet in diameter are met with on alluvial flats near the river. Many of the trees which have fallen, through decay and the bush fires, meas- ure 350 feet in length, and with girth in proportion. In one instance I meas- ured with the tape line a huge speci- men that lay prostrate across a tribiitarj' of the Watts, and found it to be 435 feet from the roots to the top of its trunk. At 5 feet from the ground it measvired 18 feet in diameter, and at the extreme end, where it was broken in its fall, it is 3 feet in diameter. This tree has been much burnt by fire, and I fully believe that before it fell it must have been more than 500 feet high. As it now lies it forms a complete bridge across a deep ravine." The gigantic trees of Victoria and Western Australia are certainly to be regarded as curiosities in our Flora, and by some geologists are considered to be the last vestiges of primeval vegetation, which, after having served the purposes of creation in other regions of the globe, have found a resting-place in Austral- asia. Though no longer indigenous in Europe, however, our Eucalypti are likely to regain a footing in the warmer jDarts of that continent, for quantities of their seeds are being expoi'ted month- ly from our shores for the j)urpose of cultivation in the old world, as many of the species have already obtained an honorable reputation in medicines and the arts, and bid fair to rival the forest trees of other lands. Our Blue Gum flourishes in the West Indies, and accommodates itself to the climate of New Zealand. Kingsley, in his work "At Last," mentions the cir- cumstance of having passed " the ga-eat Australian Blue Gum," which, over- hangs the road toward Port-of -Spain, in Trinidad. — From Paper by W. Wools, F. L. S. DR. JOHN TORREY, THE BOTANIST. BY D. C. OILMAN, President of the University of California. Dr. John Torrey, the Nestor of Amer- ican botanists, the peer of the most eminent students of science in this and other countries, "the guide, philoso- pher, and friend" of hundreds of young naturalists in different parts of the United States, died in New York, the city of his residence, March 10th, 1873, at the age of very nearly 75 years. In August last, accompanied by one of his three daughters, he visited Cali- fornia, and entered with all the fresh- ness of a young man into the enjoyment of the natural beauties and wonders of this State. He examined its vegeta- tion— natural and cultivated — its big trees, and geysers, its beautiful hills and valleys, its institutions of education and science. His visit was a little later than that of his botanical associate aiid co-laborer. Dr. Asa Gray, of Cambridge, and -was in i^art coincident with that of Prof. Agassiz, whom he accompanied to a meeting of the California Academy THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. Ill of Sciences on the first Monday of Sep- tember. The main incidents of Dr. Torrey's life are already well known. Born in 1798, he graduated as M.D. in the Col- lege of Physicians and Surgeons, and early devoted his intellectual powers to the study of Chemistry and Botany. As early as 1817, he published his first botanical essay — a Catalogue of Plants growing in the vicinity of New York. It has sometimes seemed as if Botany was his chosen pursuit. Chemistry his necessary occupation — or, as if Chemis- try was his vocation, Botany his avoca- tion; for in the early part of this century, the position was almost unknown in which a botanist could earn a livelihood from his botanical pursuits. Chemistry was a much more certain dependence for support. Even now, as far as we remember, there are but two endowed professorships of Botany alone: those at Cambridge and New Haven, held by Dr. Gray and Professor Eaton. Dr. Torrey was successfully connected with several institutions: the Military Academy at West Point, the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, the College of New Jersey at Princeton, and Columbia College in New York. During the last twenty years of his life, he was at the head of the Government Assay Ofiice in the city of New York. He commenced with Dr. Gray the publication of an American Flora,which, on account of the rapid advance of bo- tanical science and the limited number of workers, has not been completed; and he published the two quarto volumes of Botany in the "Natural History of New York." He has contributed in various ways to the advancement of his favorite science, especially by corres- pondence and counsel with botanists, far and near. His own herbarium is very full, having been enriched with many contributions from governmental expe- ditions sent to him for identification or description. It is probably surpassed by only two herbariums in the country — those of Cambridge and Washington. Columbia College has been for several 3'ears its depositor}'. Dr. Torrey, in manner and spirit, was a charming examjile of the true scholar; modest, retiring, co-operative, truth- loving, and devoted to science and not to himself. He was the friend and helper of young students, imparting to them of his own enthusiasm and knowl- edge. His religious nature was devout and reverent. His jiatriotism was glow- ing in the trying times of civil war. His name was above all reproach. A letter from a New Haven friend, dated March 14th, gives the following particulars respecting Dr. Torrey's clos- ing hours: "Yesterday I went down to New York to attend the funeral of dear and good old Dr. Torrey, who passed awa}' quiet- ly on Monday'. He had been confined to his house for a few weeks, I think some five or six, but did not seem very sick. On Monday he did not seem much worse. The assay reports had been carried 'to him daily for examina- tion and signature, up to last Saturday, when they were omitted. He wanted them on Monday ; he examined them and signed them ; at noon his mind began to wander, and later in the afternoon he quietly passed away — his last few hours of life being mentally occupied in some chemical matters which he thought curious and interesting, but which elud- ed him in his half conscious fancies." Dr. Johnson says that the chains of habit are generally too small to be felt, till they become too strong to be easily broken. HBBBiBlifawMIUMUIHiWWUMMiiw 112 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULXIRIS' CULTIVATION OF HEATHS, OR ERICAS. The genus Erica boasts in Europe of hundreds of varieties and species, all more or less interesting. Here our florists have at present cultivated only a few of them, but they are increa.sing their lists; and these shrubs deserve to grow, from their beauty and elegance, into the liberal favor of the j)ublic. We observe some of thia handnonje family of evergreen planta, chii-fly the white and pink flowered, doing verj* well in our gardens in the open air, and thick- ly set with their small but strikingly effective blooms. Their habit of growth is very dense, which adds much to the glowing display of their c<>mj>aratively minute bell-shaped flowei-s. They are well adai)ted for bouquets. In our favored clime they do not require to be removed to greenhouses for winter quar- ters. Heaths may be placed in two claiwiefl; the soft-wooded or free-growing kintU, and the hard-wooded or compamtively slow -growing kinds. The former re- quire some pruning; the latter none at all — neither leaves nor branches. The best soil for them is our richest garden mould, incorporated witli a great por- tion of fine sand. "Water should 1m' freely used, but with discrimiuutiug care, as excessive watering is injurious to them; but the soil should l>e well soaked, and not too often. The essen- tial points in their management are, first, a proper selection of the most showy kinds, which are distinct white, red, pink, purple, or rose color, with dark green foliage ; secondly, a careful pre- paration of ground in which they are to be grown; and thirdly, a location where there is an abundant su])ply of pure fresh air. We strongly recom- mend this flowering shrub for general cultivation, supported as we are by the favorable opinioiiB oliome of our first- rate florists. HOW TO UAKlk GARDEN. It is of frequent < that I am asked for informal. ml to the first work in maki: l.u, or as some say, for makii. ruw; and, however uninterewt. ^ •may be to some, who k ^^^ to know all olxjut it , it iMms thai there are many who really lackUiifl most nec«6- sary knowledge, in t • f>ftrticular. I will instnuce " Ani i liin Late communication to tii' v Hor- Ti«TLTiRi}»T, and I wjI , 'help him out, with what litl I know about it. 'T ' ' thing t«' " ' ' - si' .' iH, the a *- noil, iut«>ndee sandr loam (d matter of what color); it • - " clay; it m . ^ . ; and, in Uie larger eitii, it may oonaist of filltMl-in material ■ tion, and oftentimes e :. . Our common drift-std in u^ 1j^^> 2ix>d usder li^^ eiJiai« eiciiilcigi?^ tL&t Mmte c^ iLfe l>^l» are This » » T an^tjr of tlae o^ld 6^. fawofouR, gmm and widlei. li is aaid to be « ttttxmg mad •ng/amiia gwcmer, toad ivill no do«bt tMteMtte m iipvodto yriik ihemt w^ «f« floeldiii^ for norrcSiMS aoMMiigi: >»«nd«!yme foijagfe pliiini*. CtUBfftMtHA tfUadii is tCCCMtCBBMldid a* s pMfexi gCM for iiie gwcnbcMtte. li » * Vjrm-'grfirKmg, fiLaii, vidi xaaanis of pare> wLiie* beJi-Anped jknren. eDg-itg©3 cnj tLi« gorA TKtjtk. li hi m gracrli Ji Kla-te of ' "■ ears as to life jjTo'ba.'b] J rfcjfcd J i ■ - ^ • e!«i ly 111* euid of ifti* 7«5afe Lia^ 2L>c>>zdli <4 ihb raauj Kiay ctsenjT ocjcawBoiailJj iuTJitg iht "bfe- glixnmi^ iirr earn not be depended tqxoL, Tirb!:7«rTer plamiaiiig » eonAeaD- piaHufA^ httihi iht £fe!Ld, in ilae ,^Krd«B, or in tiie; pjfeB«2r&-^iMii^ iLemonda c# Jlpril gTves mi ti>e last psatej&al eiocnoe io do iii»* vork thIL TLt -weacliier be- in^ laiiier iineerlidxi, evesj prE«aiBtaic« alioald be tai«» in ihb traMf yjanda^g zi»deEkl>3j b^bie f4«niia|$ to iaanK - . -nL. £T«9;gpre«9H tvees and ■__ - _:-i» ar* naaoved and tmna^lisitbd 'viili ll;»6 eacrlij ai^MOtd ilaeir roc^, ^boold loeesre a rcaj iJkcK- cm^ vaiiain^ isonediaiEJy afifO- ]^anfc- i^, or c^Miiitcae is danger of loss. We nasi bear in aandlkalyfQri after teini|ifaniing: tiho' tree or ilxmb dza«s its aa]HBtcaM» from tiMibafl c)f eardi aMUUnindiag Ae loois vben taamaf^Sanied, -aldkii £nEqaK«fly foMa one Mass tate«€ aUMMstew; if it nans ^ ii lOtt. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTrRIST. 125 ly, the surrounding soil can not replace the necessary moisture to keep the ti*ee or shrub alive, and, nine cases out of ten, the plant will perish, or suffer se- verely. By thoroughly saturating the ball of earth as well as the surrounding soil, this difficulty is overcome. Much moisture is lost in newly pre- pared gi'ound, from evaporation during warm weather. This is easily remedied by mulching after planting ; which is done by covering the surface to the depth of three to four inches with straw or litter of some suitable kind, for, say, two feet around the tree. In transplanting young seedling-trees, which are usually removed without any soil around their roots, very often great mistakes are made. So-called garden- ers pull up the young trees in quanti- ties, and leave them exj)osed to the sun while planting them out. To avoid this, dissolve some loam in a bucketful of water so as to make a thin mud, into which the roots of the young trees should be plunged, in order to give them a coating, which will preserve the roots in a good condition until they are planted. This rule may be apj^lied to nearly all trees, shrubs, and flowering plants. Another important item is the prop- erly supporting of trees and shrubs with suitable stakes. Our summer winds are very strong, and blow continually from one direction, giving trees a rather one-sided appearance. This may be ob- viated to a great extent by proper prun- ing, which tends to produce a stouter and more comj)act growth. However, good, strong stakes are necessaiy; and in setting them, I would advise always to let them lean a trifle toward the direction whence the "^nd blows. In spite of all we can do, the wind may, in course of time, give a tree a one-sided and crippled appearance; Vol. III.— 17. trees in such condition I have frequent- ly saved by digging around them, at a proper distance, leaving the earth around the roots undisturbed, and then twisting them with the earth half way around, so as to expose the strong and compact growth to the wind. In the course of a year they assumed the orig- inal good shape and form. "With de- ciduous trees or shrubs this operation is very easily performed during the earlier part of the winter season. April is an excellent month to do the chief planting in the vegetable garden. The soil is warm enough to start the seeds into growth, and whatever need transj)lanting, such as Cabbages, Cauli- flowers, Tomatoes, etc., will be greatly advanced by our warm April showers. For early Cabbage, the plants should now be large enough to be transplanted. Some late Cabbage may be sown at this time, in a cold frame. Early Cauliflow- ers may also be transplanted, and some of the later kinds may be sown again in a frame. Tomatoes should all be trans- planted. All tender vegetables must now be sown, such as Beans, Corn, Cu- cumbers, Melons, Squashes, Peppers, Egg-plants, etc. Sow again some early Radishes and Lettuce to succejed in May. In transplanting young plants or vegetables, such as I have mentioned above, it is well to select a cloudy day, or if these are not of frequent occur- rence, the best time of the day is after three o'clock in the afternoon; immedi- ately after transplanting, water care- full}" each plant with the watering-pot. Young Tomato plants should be shaded for a few days after transplanting. In the flower garden things begin to look more cheerful. Roses and Pinks are beginning to be plentiful. Pansies are excellent at this time. Violets and Hyacinths are breathing their last; Tu- lips are in their glory. Some Migno- 12G THE CALIFORNIA HOKTICULTURIST. nette, Nemophila, Phlox Drummondii, Portulacca, or Lobelia, sown between these early flowering bulbs, will make a very desirable substitute by and by, and will not in any way hurt the bulbs. Plant out your Dahlias, some of your Gladiolus, Amaryllis, Tuberoses, and other tender bulbs. Lilies are coming forwai'd now; keep the ground loose around them, and if it is convenient to give them some strong manure water, or a little guano in so- lution, it will make them thrive as well again. Do not fail to sow some of the best annuals in groups or masses, wherever there is room for them. They give va- riety, conti'ast, and effect. The Ger- man Asters, the Larkspurs, Petunias, Primulas, Stocks, Phlox Drummondii, Candytuft, Snap Dragon, Zinnia, and the various kinds of Immortelles, are all most desirable to have. The plants in the greenhouse and conservatory are greatly stimulated by the warm spring days. On this coast, nine-tenths of the nursery establish- rcients are carried on without artificial heat during winter, and consequently the plants cultivated there show the ap- jDroach of spring and summer as much as the outdoor plants. In colder coun- tries the temperature is kept up through- out the winter to such an extent as to produce continual growth and develop- ment. To accomplish the same thing here, artificial heat is indisjoensable, although very little of it is required, during the nights and some rainy days even, from which tender plants suffer here the most. Begonias, Cacti, Cine- rarias, Chinese Primroses, and Azaleas are now the chief attractions under glass. The Clematis, Torrenya Asiat- ica, Eranthemum tuberculatum, and the double Geraniums are flowering •well with us at this time. Give plenty of air and a greater abundance of water to all plants which seem to advance well. For most green- house plants an occasional and moder- ate application of guano water is very beneficial. This is a favorable time to propagate most of the tender greenhouse plants; in fact, for nearly all of such plants as have to be raised under glass. Cuttings of Coleus will now jjush ahead rapidly, and will soon make better plants than the old ones, which should be thrown away as soon as the young plants are rooted. If any seeds of tender or hardy plants are on hand, or are expected, do not delay planting them as soon as they come into your possession. EEPOET ON THE FRUIT MAHKET. 3Y E. J. HOOPEE. Soon we shall be visited by some warm weather. The early spring fruits wdll, in a short time, be present to our imaginations, if not upon our tables. At any rate, the vernal weather will in- duce us, in lieu of fresh ones, to eat more plentifully of those fruits which the producers, canners and fruiterers have been able to preserve, lay over, and prolong from last year's crops. If it be true that in cold weather we need, and the appetite demands, concentrated cai'bonaceous food, it is also true, as might be expected, and as manj^ of us know, that the appetite demands, in warm weather, a very diflferent class of articles of food, and the reason is obvi- ous. To be sure our climate is very different fi'om that of the Eastern States, especially in San Francisco, and it is comi^aratively cool here nearly all the year round. Much hot w^eather is quite uncommon, and we rai'ely have in spring or summer more than half a THE C.iLIFORNLl HORTICULTUEIST. 127 dozen very hot days together. Still, the thermometer is often high enough at nearly all seasons to 'make it desir- able that a pretty large part of our diet should consist of fruit and vegetables. Oranges then come in to help us in this case considerably. Also Ehubarb, or the Pie-plant, with a much larger ac- cession of vegetables than even we, in this region, could have during our winter months. In the spring, our de- sire for butter and buckwheat is lessen- ed, and we begin to crave for more acid fruits and green vegetables ; yet, how many thoughtless housekeepers go through the same routine of cooking in summer as in winter, with just about as much butter, and lard, and fat beef, and even pork, and rich gi'avy, and flour-puddings with sauce ; not because they like it as well, or think it is wholesome, but only because " their mothers did so before them. " We need, in summer or winter, whether using muscles or brains, or neither, every-day food containing car- bonates for the lungs, nitrates for the muscles and tissues, and phosphates for the vital powers ; but we need them in very different proportions, according to the state of the temperature in which we live, and our habits of life. But man, who has intellect, is expected to understand the laws of his being, and to adapt his food to the wants of his nature, varying it according to circum- stances. This we should learn to do even in the moderate, cool, and equable climate of San Francisco, and still more so in the much more generally warm climates of our coasts and valleys, dif- fering so much as they do as to loca- tions. But we must not, in our divergence from our main subject — fruits — and touching upon kindred subjects, forget our leading theme, the market; yet, a few words more, as to the time for eat- ing fruit ; we think, the morning is the best; but we are not quite sure, though. The afternoon is good. But we do not recommend fruit with the dew upon it. Let the fruit get its own breakfast be- fore you eat it yourself. It break- fasts on early sunshine and dew. It takes these things in, and smiles upon itself and. the world, just as you do about half an hour after a pleasant breakfast. Eat it, then, while it is in this humor — b}' no means in the raw and early morning ; thus you have the young freshness and virgin flavor of the fruit. It has another character later in the day, when it is filled with sunshine ; then we think it is sweeter. We must really not delay any longer, however, in treating on our more prac- tical, matter of fact, and more tangible subject — ovir markets. Behold, then, our readers, what we can set before you this month, for your judicious and doubtless well discriminating palates. There are some changes in the fruit and vegetable markets since last month, but they are not very important. The most notable fact is the advent of Straw- berries (the Longworth Prolific, as usu- al), on the 12th of March. Their ap- pearance is a week earlier than last year. The consignment of that fruit was light, of course, and, when so early, their qualitj^ denotes plainly, both in complexion and taste, that they have not yet had a sufficient bathing in the solar beams. The price may be sup- posed to be rather on the fancy order — one dollar and fifty cents per pound — but by the time this number of our monthly reaches the public, they will be enjoying this fruit at a more moder- ate j)rice. The first cargo of this year's crop of Tahiti Oranges arrived about the 9th ult. , and though nearly always inferior 128 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. to those of our southern, and some favored spots in our middle and even more northern counties, they meet with a tolerably ready sale at satisfactory prices. Lemons can be obtained a little low- er than last month, owing to the ar- rival of a considerable quantity of Limes, which also are cheaper. Cocoanuts are coming in large loads. Apples are not plentiful, and the best command $3.00 per box, while in- ferior fruit will bring $1.50 to $2.00 a box. Pears are about exhausted, and nom- inally quotable at $2.50 to $3.50 a box. Bananas have come in lately in a pretty large quantity, and are of fine quality, at 75 cents per dozen. Asparagus is abundant, and now sells at moderate prices. We observed new Cucumbers, fresh and crisp, for the first time on the 11th ult. Thej, probably, have never been much earlier than this in any former season. They were selling at $2.50 per dozen. It would not answer, at this price to cut up, and, with salt, pepper, and vinegar, prepare these nicely, and then, according to the recipe of some over -careful sanitary -protective folks, cast them to the porcines, so as to in- flict no injury on the human family. This would be rather too extravagant an idea in every point of view. We ourselves think Cucumbers have been rather overrated as to their terribly del- eterious effects on man's digestive or- gans. At the present prices for these esculents, however, it would seem to be unnecessary for us to preach modera- tion in their use; the consideration of the depleting efi'ects on the pocket will preclude the necessity for this. Rhubarb is in good supply, and the price is speedily becoming more moder- ate. (SjifVV(^\mu\(\x(t, To the Editor of the California Horticulturist : Dear Sir: — In the March number of the California Horticulturist, I notice a communication signed by PliUoflora, who seems to expect more work from our Agricultural and Horticultural So- cieties, for the public good ; and would like to see more extensive reports from the Secretaries of these Societies. The sviggestions are timely and valuable. Unluckily our practical men will neither ' spare the time, nor take the trouble to put their knowledge and experience to public use. Our scientific men consider the subject of Horticulture beneath their dignity, and our rich men can not afford to exi:)end a dollar unless they see the prospect of two in return. The consequence is that the Sec- retaries of these Societies, with the aid of but one or two other members, have to carry on all the work which is done, and for which they receive the valuable con- sideration of re-election, if they choose to accept it. However, here is a. suggestion for Mr. " Philoflora." If he is a member of the Horticultural Society, let him bring the ' ' Pegging dowruof Verbenas" question before the monthly meeting; and if he is not a member, then let him join immediately, for the very fact of his becoming a member- would, un- doubtedly, increase the usefulness of the Bay District Horticultural Society. So long as a society has to struggle for its mere existence, but little progress can be expected in public usefulness. Our Horticultural Society ought to number 1,000 members instead of only sixty; then the gatherings would doubt- less be more numerous, and necessarily more interesting and t)eneficial. By degrees, I suppose, this more desirable istalus will be attained. Horticulturist. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 129 (g(UtO(vi«l ^kauiug.si. WATER RIGHTS. From the new Code, we copy the fol- lowing provisions, relating- to water rights : Sec. 1410. The right to the use of running water flowing in a river or stream, or down a cailou or ravine, may be acquired by appropriation. Sec. 1411. The appropriation must be for some useful or beneficial pur- pose, and when the approjiriator or suc- cessor in interest ceases to use it for such purpose, the right ceases. Sec. 1412. The person entitled to the use may change the place of diver- sion, if others are not injured by such change, and may extend the ditch, flume, pijDe or aqueduct by which the diversion is made to places beyond that where the first use was made. Sec. 1413. The water appropriated may be turned into the channel of an- other stream and mingled with its water, and then reclaimed, but, in reclaim- ing it, the water already appropriated by another must not be diminished. Sec. 1414. As between approjjriators, the one first in time is the fii'st in right. Sec. 1415. A person desiring to ap- propriate water must post a notice, in writing, in a conspicuous place at the point of intended diversion, stating therein : 1. That he claims the water there flowing to the extent of (giving the number) inches, measured under a four- inch i^ressure ; 2. The purpose for which he claims it, and the place of intended use ; 3. The means by which he intends to divert it, and the size of the flume, ditch, i^ipe, or aqueduct, in which he intends to divert it. A copy of the notice, within ten days after it is posted, must be recorded in the office of the recorder of the county in which it is posted. Sec. 1416. Within sixty days after the notice is posted, the claimant must commence the excavation or construc- tion of the works in which he intends to divert the water, and must prosecute the work diligently and uninterruptedly to completion, unless tem^Dorarily inter- rupted by snow or rain. Sec. 1417. By " completion" is meant conducting the waters to the iilaee of intended use. Sec. 1418. By a compliance with the above rules, the claimant's right to the water relates back to the time the notice was posted. Sec. 1419. A failure to comply with such rules de^Drives the claimant of the right to the use of the water, as against a subsequent claimant who comjDlies therewith. Sec. 1420. Persons who have hereto- fore claimed the right to water, and who have not constructed works in which to divert it ; and who have not diverted nor applied it to some useful purpose, must, after this title takes ef- fect, and within twenty days there- after, proceed as in this title provided, or their right ceases. Sec. 1421. The recorder of each county must keep a book in which he must record the notices j)rovided for in this title. Sec. 1422. The rights of riparian pro- prietors are not affected by the ^Jrovis- ions of this title. The Season op Flowers. — Nothing in Nature is so entrancing to the senses, so inspiriting to the mind, as a well planned garden, dotted with brilliant flowers. Our fields are now decked in vernal green, gaily sprinkled with bou- w i .f \^ |Mn«#i mi\ . In all the range of medicinal reme- dies, not one is so ijnportant and use- ful to mankind as the Cinchona bark, with its alkaloids, Qainia and Clnchonia. This importance, taken in connection ■with its comparatively limited natural area of growth, has called attention to the necessity for the cultivation of the Cinchona-tree in different parts of the world. Many of the European governments (more especially that of Great Britain), have been engaged for the past ten years in establishing governmental plantations of this valuable tree, and have also endeavored by all possible means to encourage its cultivation by private enterprise. In the United States, as yet, no efforts have been made in this direction ; partly from the fact of our peculiar form of government, which places so many "ifs," "ands," and- "buts," in the way of such experi- ments, and partly for the want of a suitable climate in which to test it. The first fault will have to be over- come by educating the people in such matters, until they shall see the im- portance and need of government aid. As for the second, I think that is al- ready obviated in the possession of Cali- fornia, which seems to have all requisite climatic qualities for the successful cul- tivation of the Cinchona-tree. With a view to call the attention of the people of California, and possibly, by that means, also that of the State and Gen- eral Governments to this subject, I have selected your journal in which to give a brief outline of the history of the tree, and also to show what has been done in its cultivation by Great Bx-itain, in the East Indies. Cinchona belongs to the genus of trees of the natural order CinchonacecB. There are a number of species or vari- eties; the principal ones, and those most cultivated, being C. calisaya, C. offici- nalis, and C. succirubra; the best of which is the C. calisaya. These trees are only found native on the west coast of South America, between south lati- tude 20'', and north latitude 10*^, on the eastern slope of the second range of the Cordilleras. They are evergreen trees, having a leaf somewhat similar to the laurel. The flowers are white, rose-colored, or purplish, having a very fragrant odor, and are produced in panicles. Some of these trees are of a lai'ge size, while others are but small shrubs. The gathering of the bark, which is carried on during the dry sea- son, is mainly done by Indians, the trees being cut as near the surface of the ground as possible, and the bark is then stripped off and dried. An after- growth springs up from the roots, but does not attain the original growth. As early as 1835, Dr. Royle suggest- ed the introduction of the Cinchona- tree into India, for the purpose of cul- tivation, and some plants were taken there by Mr. Markham. The planta- tion, however, from some cause failed, and not much was done in the matter until 1861, when a number of j^lants were introduced. In 1803, there was a permanent plantation of over 40,000 trees growing on the Nilgherry Hills of South Hindostan, besides those of Bengal. About this time a sample of bark, sent from India to England, was ex- amined, and found to yield a percentage of Qainia equal to that grown in South America. Thus the success of Cin- chona cultivation in India was fully de- monstrated, and has since then been still further proven by the extended THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 139 plantations in different i^arts of the country. Within the past three months Mr. MTvor, Superintendent of the State Plantation in Southern India, has noti- fied the English Government that he was prepared to ship 25,000 pounds of the bark, as a first consignment, to be sold at public auction, with a view to test its quality and value. In conclud- ing this article, it would be well to give your readers a synopsis of a report from C. B. Clarke, botanic gardener, Calcutta. It contains many valuable hints in re- gard to the growth and management of the trees, which, coming from the source it does, can be relied upon: E,EPORT on Cinchona Cultivation in Bengal. From C. B. Clarke, Esq., M. A., Officiating Superin- tendent, Botanic Garden, and in Charge of Cin- chona Cultivation in Bengal, to the Secretary to the Government of Bengal. SiK : — I beg leave to submit the annual report on the cultivation of Cinchona in Bengal for the year ending 31st of March, 1870. The three species of Cinchona of which the cultivation has been extended di;ring the year, are C. siicciruhra, C. officinalis, and C. calisaya. The number of plants of these species in permanent plantations were as under: C. SHCciruhra. C. officirtnlin. C. Calisaya March 31, 1869. 615,730 312,719 220 March 31, 1870. 1,055,100 406,899 4,000 Increase, 439,370 94,180 3,7i The increase of permanent plantation of C. succirubra and C calisaya has been made about Bishap at an elevation of 2,500 feet; the in- crease of C. officinalis at Rungbee at an eleva- tion of about 4,500 feet. The average growth for the year of the ten measured plants of C. succirub7-a planted in March, 1867, at Eishap, has been 51 inches, which fairly represents the satisfactory general growth of the C. succirubra plantations. The aver} ^, 4 loU ►•^ •»»» ■•in»»-a> ^ Om All Ik* ^ »•.! b; lb* low and Loc"-« ^^^ » ^ -«■■" v. tnu^g. pUaUd at ;. i)e get dovn M a ruic, v i»tions, UuU dcct'luous w< V ',,, ,Uh1 «L«n I . . I lb* tup l«ll moi be i^ropumuued to ihe rw^ To f uribar illwlral \h» iallAcj of the o Lnnunin4( tbaonr mppaaa Utai in juUiUK oul cuUmga, « of ' «c.<>a >jr WiUuw, aU w. = ^ J ooa anpiMiM Uia » aav foui foald baloOMdr UmU>< ' LT lop UmI ia ftMonpA i vt I|i0«tli; i» i»^ ^ V* uunpttibie. wbai* pop tr WbiU Elm tad .„^ la. alUiot 1 rieeediugij dif- Ui UmtupUii aticotoafuUj titii btfg« iopa. will far mmI^t IT vtw; bcM<4i i« (^ . ikiibon bM«pulB*«^"^ Ittoaani' ^coDtiib- .theMrij tenvhicb a, lb««« »• •!••.*• • •'«'♦• fvol fivwlli. aad Ui«a • l«w^ y»pU uaIj m»k9 wmmI dunaf ^^il portod » n>n»^l«l wilh a^ « »•<* ««• A U^ -k^k co0tt»«» »ak»"k •* — * a,.^ iba ^i^ —. l*^* »*- ^^ ^• •aUlM* tai • B^ biabl, tkM tka ikr tkaj ka«« U^ '' J^forlk.U»-Iil-'»«*^''"' ito aarlj, baadaot. im of iowtOi ^ allkavT«r*plM*>' bttib; or. of U)< Ul" fuliaica; •"'*>• *' ^^ , tW Wai • ;/j,j goow- ' ba.lnpptHllb.g*'^^^ e ^«^,olk«»'^^^"*^ jqrfl k diaiaii)' #ai>* nau-«l«bi-'- li'; •_■ !'■ . .at m « lUttlHE ^^ '-^♦. r« 4 'i^. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 161 and flowers in the frontier homes, very much may be done to substitute for them native plants of perhaj)s equal value. There is a patch of "svood not many miles distant from any settler, where some shrubs may be procured which will relieve the garden or the yard of its nakedness, and lend beauty and attrac- tion, perhaps quite equal to those favor- ites which are now beyond reach. The kind of such shrubs will, of course, vary in different localities. Ancient Timber. — Probably the old- est timber in the world, which has been subjected to the use of man, is that which is found in the ancient temples of Eg3'pt. It is found in connection with stone -work which is known to be at least 4,000 years old. This wood, and the only wood used in the construc- tion of the temple, is in the form of ties, holding- the end of one stone to another in its upper surface. When two blocks were laid in place, then it appears that an excavation about an inch deep was made in each block, into which an hour-glass shaped tie was driven. It is therefore very difficult to force any stone from its position. The ties appear to have been the Tamarisk, or Chittim-wood, of which the ark was constructed, a sacred tree in ancient Egypt, and now very rarely found in the valley of the Nile. Those dovetailed ties are just as sound now as on the da}' of their insertion. Although fuel is very scarce in that country, those bits of wood are not large enough to make it an object with Arabs to heave off layer after layer of heavy stone for so small a prize. Had they been of bronze, half the old temples would have been de- stroyed ages ago, so precious would they have been for various purposes. The Mulberry originated in Persia. Floweks and the Flower-Trade. — The following remarks are furnished by Mr. M. B. Batcham, Secretary of the Ohio Horticultural Societ}': "The use of flowers and plants for the decoration of parlors and tables, at fashionable parties and weddings, has increased wonderfully within a few years. It is not unusual for eight hun- dred or a thousand dollars to be ex- pended for flowers and plants for a single occasion. The sale of cut-flowers in the city of New York is estimated at over a million of dollars annually. About one-fourth of this sum is expend- ed in one month — at the season of Christmas and New Year's festivities, at which time the florists are all taxed to their utmost abilities, and extravagant prices are often obtained for choice flowers. " The Horlicullurist says the whole- sale or trade price was, the past winter, for Rosebuds, $5 to $8 per 100; Ca- mellias, $50; Tuberoses, $10; but the consumers pay double these rates. As spring apj^roaches the prices decline. The little vine called Smilax is very much used, and sells for 50 cents to $1 per yard. Mr. Henderson, the great florist, says there are about twenty greenhouses, having an area of 20,000 feet, in New York and Boston, devoted to growing Smilax alone; and whole aci-es of glass structures devoted to Rosebuds, Violets, Tuberoses, etc. "A Philadelphia paper says flowers are quite the rage there. It is the fash- ion now to send boxes of nice cut flow- ers as presents, instead of stiffly tied bouquets, and ladies greatly prefer this method, as the flowers keep fresh much longer, and can be used for a variety of purposes. Flowers j)urchased for fu- nerals and weddings are of the most ex- pensive kind, and yield a large revenue to the growers. In midwinter the price 102 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. of a handsome basket is from $10 to $50. Bouquets can be made from $5 to $25. Single Rosebuds cost 25 cents, and Carnations 20 cents. Smilax is sold for $1 a yard, and one spray of Lily of the Valley costs twenty -five cents. Wealthy people invest largely in flowers on all occasions of festivity. Large floral bells, which cost from $100 to $200, are ordered for weddings; then the brackets and vases must be trimmed and filled, and trailing baskets of rare flowers must ornament every table and tripod." A Poisonous Plant. — A few years ago there was in the Royal Botanical Gar- dens at Kew, a specimen of probably the most poisonous plant ever intro- duced into England. It was the Jatropa urens, the properties of which are so noxious that its possession is positively dangerous. The ex -curator of the gardens was one day reaching over it, when its fine, bristling stings touched his wrist. The first sensation which he felt was a numb- ness and swelling of the lips; the action of the poison was on the heart, circula- tion was stopped, and he soon fell, un- conscious; the last thing he remembered being cries of "Run for the doctor!" Either the doctor was skillful, or the dose of poison injected not quite, though nearly, enough to cause death; but af- terward the young gardener, in whose house the plant was i)laced, got it thrust into a corner, and would not come with- in arm's length of it. He watered the offender with a pot having an extremely long spout. In a short time, however, the plant disappeared altogether, and another specimen of the genus Jatropa, which was afterward introduced, van- ished in the like mysterious manner. It was presumed that the attendants were secretly determined that such plants should not be retained in the.houses, to cause the possibility of an accident such as that which happened to their curator. — The Garden. A Neglected Source of Food — The African Earth-Ndt, — Dr. Muter, in the pages of Tlie Food Journal, calls atten- tion to what he terms a neglected source of food. Some time ago, while investi- gating Cocoa by means of the micro- scope, he discovered an ingredient em- ployed by way of adulteration to which he could give no name. Subsequently, he had a sample of the substance, offered at the Mark Lane Exchange as an arti- cle of food for cattle, forwarded to him for analysis. It now became necessary to deal with the matter seriously, and so further microscopic investigation led to the discovery that the mysterious in- gredient was simply the flour of the African Pea or Earth-nut. Dr. Muter declares, however, that the bean of this nut is an excellent substance, which, instead of being used only as food for cattle, or by some adulterators more en- lightened than their neighbors, should be everywhere recognized as a market- able article of human diet. Althcea Frutex. — This handsome and showy shrub is properly an Hibiscus — a very numerous genus, comprehending no less, now, than forty or more species, most of them inhabitants of either In- dia. It produces its flowers rather late in the season, but is a fine, hardy orna- mental plant. The flowers are bell- shaped and of various colors, pale or bright purple with dark bottoms, white with purple bottoms, and yellow with the same. These flowers being large, gay, and numerous, and the shrubs of compact, rather tall and good conical shape, make THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 163 an attractive apj)earance, and give the completest idea of the classic charac- ter. These shrubs grow naturally in Syria. Many of them are now grown double in their flowers, which form a valuable and beautiful variety. They are well suited for lawns as well as gar- dens. They lise with shrubby stalks to the height of eight or ten feet. The several varieties may be jiropagated by grafting upon each other, which is the common method of propagating the sorts with striped leaves. Their late blooming is an advantage when other flowering shrubs are more scarce. They remain a long while in bloom, and the flowers are very numerous. Cinnamon. — Cinnamon bark is well known to all our readers. Boys and girls, as well as many grown people, like to scent it and eat it. It is an article of commerce, and great quantities are brought to this country every j^ear. It is in daily use, but not many take any thought about how and where it grows, and how it is prepared for the market. The Cinnamon plant is supposed to be a native of Ceylon, an island in the Indian Ocean, south of Asia, the people of which are called the Ceylonese. But this plant is cultivated chiefly by the people of China, not because a better quality or more abundant crop is pro- duced, but because the Chinese are more industrious, and value commerce more highly than the Ceylonese. These people have their Cinnamon harvest, when all hands are busily en- gaged, as we are in harvesting the pro- ductions of this country, but this har- vest commences in May and continues until October. The plants are not cut down and de- stroyed, but the twigs, or shoot-limbs. are carefully selected and cut off, rang- ing in size from a half inch to two inches — the smaller the better. After they are cut from the plant, a knife rnade for the purpose is run sev- eral times through the bark, so that it may be easily stripped off. After being stripped off, the bark is dried in the sun, and rolls up like quills. It is then bound into bundles of thirty pounds each, sewed ujd in mats, and sent to market. The cassia buds which are procured at the drug and confectionary stores, and chewed to sweeten the breath, are the dried flowers of the Cinnamon-tree, gathered for commerce just before they burst into bloom. Fuchsias from Seed. — Fuchsias are readily grown from seed, and usually vary widely from the original stock. The seed pods should be allowed to re- main on the plant until they fall off; then lay them aside for a few days, or until they begin to decay. The seed may then be washed from the pulp and spread upon paper to dry. They may be sown immediately, or kept for a few mouths in paper bags. Sow the seed in fine, sifted soil, composed of leaf- mold and sand, covering not more than an eighth of an inch deep; sprinkle the soil with water, being careful not to wash away the seed; then place the pots or boxes containing them in a warm place, giving water as required. When the seedlings are large enough to han- dle, pot off singly into small thumb- pots. As the plants become large and strong, shift into larger pots. — Eural New Yorker, The annual product of hay in the United States is not far from 25,000,000 tons. Worth $250,000,000. 164 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. RAIN -FALL IN SAN FRANCISCO, 1849 TO 1873. RECORDED BY THOMAS TENNENT. July August September. October. . . , November . December. . January . . February.. March.... April May June 3.14 8.G6 6.20 8.34 1.77 4.53 .40 18»0. 0.92 7 1.05 4 .72 .54 1.94 1.23 .67 1851. 1.03 .21 2.12 7.10114 18»S. .581 4 .14 4 6.68 14 .2(i 3 .32 1 1858. .80 5.31 13.20 18; 3.92 1.42 4.86 5.37 .38 is.'sa. .04 .46 .12 2.28 2.32 3.88 8.04 3.51 3.12 .02 .08 1854. 1855 .01 .15 2.41 .34 .81 ie.'>5. 3.(17111 4.77 10 4.64 12 5.00 10 1.88 6 .07 5.76 9.40 .50 1.60 2.94 .76 .03 1850. .02 .07 .45 2.79 3.75 ISST. 2. 7.40 39 18.44 48 35.26 70 23.87 79 23.68 67121.66 54'19.81 61 21.88 56 22.22 68 22.27 73 19.72 70 185 ». 1858. s o %> ^ e 1 3> o 2 .05 .05 2 .16 2 .93 3 2.74 4 3.01 11 .69 6 4.14 8 6.14114 1858. 1859. 4.36 8 1.28 4 1.83 8 6.. 32 18 6.. 55 8 3.02 11] 1.55 4 .27 4' .34 3 1.55 4 .05 1 21.88 56 22.22 68 I85U. 1800. 1861. 186». 1863. 1864. 1865. 1866. 1867. 1868. 1869. 1870. 1871. 1878. Sl •t t t .•S> •t «^ »> 6s •t e .*, B .»> e -^ e e e 8 A !>, <§ <^ <§ C) <^ C5 <§ <^ 3 ^ 3 (^ 3 (^ -Z_ <^ o> 0 3 Ci <^ Cl 3 July . .21 8 Sefjtember. . .02 1 .03 1 .01 1 .24 2 .11 2 .04 1 .12 1 .03 1 .03 2 0.14 1 October .40 'i .13 3 .26 4 .20 1 .15 3 1.29 2 .11 2 0.21 1 November . . 4.10 12 .15 3 2.5.5 .5 6.68 8 4.19 10 3.35 12 3.41 6 1.18 5 1.19 5 .43 4 3.72 9 2.62 S December. . . 9.54 16 2.35 9 1.80 « 8.91 18 .58 8 15.16118 10.69118 4.34 11 4.31 7 3.38 8 16.74 14 7.25 10 1868. 186.3. 1864. 1865. 1866. 1867. 1868. 1869. 18TO. 1871. 1878. 1873. January 24.36 18 3.63 9 1.83 5 5.14 9 10.88 16 5.16 15 9.. 50 17 6.35 14 3.89 9 3.07 7 4.22 9 2.17 8 February. . . 7.. 53 10 3.19 10 1.34 8 2.12 9 7.20 9 6.13 9 3.90 5 4.78 9 3.76 10 6.97 18 4.24 17 March 2.20 11 2.06 8 1..52 9 .74 4 3.04 12 1.58 7 6.30 12 3.14 12 2.00 8 1.29 8 l.«4 y 0.78 4 April .73 9 1.61 9 1.57 4 .94 3 .12 1 2.36 8 2.31 9 2.19 5 1.53 4 1.93 6 1.10 6 May .74 5 .23 2 .78 5 .63 0 1.46 ti .03 2 .08 2 .20 2 .21 3 .16 2 .05 1 .04 1 .23 3 .02 1 .02 2 49 . 27 83 13.62 52 10.08 37 24.73 59 22.93 6<( 34.92 71 38.84I78 21.35 58 19.31 47 14.10 46 34.71 73 METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, FOR THE MONTH FROM MARCH 28th to APRIL 27th, 1873. Prepared for The Hoeticulturist by Thomas TENNE>rr, Chronometer and Instrument Maker, Battery Street, oppLSite the Custom-house. BAKOMETKR. Mean height at 9 a.m 30.20 in. do 12m 30.20 do 3P.M 30.18 do 6P.M 30.17 Greatest height, on the 7th at 9 a.m 30.48 Least height, on 24th and 25th at 6p.M 29.00 THERMOMETER. (In Vie shade and free from reflected h^at.) Mean height at 9 a.m 55° do 12m 59^. do 3V.M OO^ do 6p.m 56° Greatest height, on 15th at 3 p.m. 70'J Least height , on 4tb at 9 A. M 46° SELP - REGISTERING THERMOMETER. Mean height during the night 39° Greatest height, on night of 18th and 20th 46° Least height, on night of 5th 28° WINDS. North and North-west on 14 days; Sonth and South-east on 1 day, South west on 6 days; West on 10 days. BAIN GUAGE. March 30th 0.01 inehea. AprU 2d 0.08 " 20th 035 " Total 0.44 inches. Total rain of the season up to date 17.84 " weather. Clear on 10 days; variable on 12 days; cloadr and foggy on 8 days ; rain on 3 day* \u & THE CALrrORXIA lOUTICrLTnilST •PALL DT SAW PRNCISCO. 1849 TO 1873, UCOUiEI> I.V x,^ T, • V4 : IftAI. !■«•. !•««. IMI4 •«fts. ?'. tUIJfUfL '5 ^ .OS I 2 3.74 .6» a .03 1 ..' .03 l' «i .05 1; 8 7.2«'l.5' .21 1 91 12 53i 3 IMS. IMT. IMS, i.li d| •.14ll4{ 1.67| 6 fiiiejai 4 3f, I ■■■ !•«•. I leeo. i 1861. 1 2MI 4 a,oj 11 .27 4 1.66 4 1.641 8 2.47 !.«• 7 3.72 3.»9|13 4.08 3.I4I 8 a.HT,,!! 10 2 .81 1.00 73 19.72 70 /•■< ' • >** »••! !••« I*«4 l*«4 \»t\- •f» • I— A - ». ••«. Vr fft: 1 .OS S.M •t». l»f«. < ItVl. 1»T1. 187t. .rat 2 0 14' 1 I- .'1 I It r. II»9S. {1078. '. "" " 0 1T| 8 1.24 78 ■.'.1 ■■ 1 111 '■ .211 3| .ICl 2! ^ KL.Ti:-;!!'JLCXCAL RBOORD, raft T«B Morr« nv>ii v^' x ■»■ «• ad il stts. un. lo-f saoiamnio THEaMoitrnre. I » • «• I) ■ r> « ta m Mik t^l )»•' Ilk fc A*«« Wi' /*^ f—^ ' A* II • iat«kr.'r- *. .^^t tf.rlBC l^ »•*>* .S9» tfiiii •f iBibuid aoth t^ l.Mi« ka«ki. «« al^ flT Mk I * ' -*•#<» w« ywit>-w>M •• 14 aay : '<>•»«• ""^ gootb^wt on ftAm OTAOB. '^ CULTUKi JUNE, 18T3. i piantm;^ oi ibe terci luiaxige )f which the seed is pro- f a< . . - ~ . -. owder- 3a \\, • devei- kec. opmg theiju«©iv<»i into ] ■;)roper surface i'Oi • ..;: . -.. . oe Bet muiUpHied by oot after it to has b'"- is th€ propagating i'eriis. --'- -r. Vol. HX.— .* , ■1 ■- It.l n BOW' 166 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. fronds, they sliould be taken off and planted into small jjots, and be well shaded. The best soil for Ferns is one-third white sand, one -third leaf -mold, and one-third fibrous peat. Sphagnum is most excellent for Ferns, but it is very difficult to obtain here; fibrous peat is also very scarce, and if it can not be had, I would recommend one-third of light loam mixed with finely cut moss and moss roots, and two-thirds of leaf- mold and white sand. All Ferns grow best in shade, and most of them require a moist atmos- phere. In greenhouses and conserva- tories, they grow best under the shade of other plants, or remote from the bright light. I have seen some varie- ties of Adiantums thi'iving admirably well under the shelves of the green- house. If grown in rooms, the dry at- mosphere predominating there will not permit them to vegetate freely for any great length of time ; and if the fronds are covered with dust, the plants will soon perish. The ever progressive science of Floriculture, however, has come to our aid, in the construction of "Fern-cases," which are now all the furor in Europe and in the East. The first Fern-cases were constructed and came to public notice at the World's Fair, held in London in 1851, and since then the idea has met with favor every- where, and they are now among the most popular ornaments for the win- dow-garden and the parlor. Fern- eases are constructed in all pos- sible forms; the sides and tops being of glass, and made air-tight for the pur- pose of confining the moisture and pre- venting its escape, the evaporating water being condensed within the in- closed space. This is just what Ferns are in need of; and I may inform the reader, that Ferns once planted in a Fern-case and well moistened will not require any more water for several months, if kejit perfectly air - tight. Some Ferns, perhaps, will do better if the Fern-case is occasionally ventilated, but most of them do not require it. It can therefore easil}^ be seen, that the Fern-case requires no care whatever, and may be placed almost anywhere in the drawing-room, the parlor, or any other desirable locality. At some other time, I will give a list of the best Ferns for cultivation, both in and out of doors, comprising such varieties only as may be obtained in this market at a reasonable price. SPONGE ON THE SAN DIEGO COAST. From the numerous specimens of Sponge found on the beach and in the caves of La JoUa, it is very jorobable that extensive beds of this valuable ar- ticle of commerce exist somewhere in the neighborhood. Most of the Sponge of commerce is now procured from the Mediterranean Sea, more especially about the islands of the Archipelago and in the Levant. They are found adhering closely to the bottom, and re- quire some force to be detached. The fishing is carried on principally by di- vers, although some is done by spear- ing, which, however, materially injures the SjDonge. The inhabitants of a small town named Cranidi, about twenty miles southeast of Nauplia, are the most expert divers, being trained to the business from their infancy. After being fished up, the Sponge, when perfectly free from sand and dry, is exceedingly light — almost as light as down, being moved by the slightest breath of air. There is a little trickery practiced in this business as in all others, and the si^onges before being taken to market are laid on the beach to allow the ripple THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 167 of the sea to slush them with the finest particles of sand. They are then gath- ered together in heaps, and pressed close enough to become hard and flat when dry. Notwithstanding they may subsequently undergo a thorough wash- ing and sifting they will weigh three or four times their original weight. The principal Sponge market in the world is Smyrna, in Asia Minor. The pieces of Sponge that have been from time to time found on the beach at La Jolla are of excellent quality. A careful examination of the bottom a little distance from the shore might re- sult in the discovery of an extensive bed of this zoophyte. — San Diego Union. Absorption of Moisture by Leaves. — Mr. M. Cailletet has lately been inves- tigating the question as to whether the leaves of plants are capable of absorb- ing water in a liquid state; and sums up the result of his experiments, by stating that the fact seems to be demon- strated that a plant growing in a humid soil and receiving by its roots the quan- tity of water necessary to its normal condition, does not absorb the water which moistens its leaves, but that such absorption takes place as soon as the leaves begin to wither, in consequence of the desiccation of the soil. In this way he explains th.e phenomenon of certain plants maintaining a healthy condition without any contact with the soil, and even absolutely isolated from all assimilable substances. Thus, a specimen of Fourreiea, a rootless Bro- meliacious plant, maintained a healthy existence and exhibited considerable increase in weight, while suspended for more than six years in the air by a wire. No moisture ever reached it except that from the garden syringe,, and yet it was continually putting out new leaves and flowering abundantly. — Gard. Monthly. CALIFORNIA WILD FLOWERS. BY DE. A. KKLLOGO. We present the readers of The Hor- ticulturist AND Floral Magazine a small bouquet of wild flowers found in the vicinity of San Francisco. Flowers are ever the symbols of wis- dom and pui'ity. Tokens of the genial, sunny side of humanity, they bear on their gay wings kindly messages of good to all. Kadiant and chax-ming with divine philosophy, and sweet as is Apollo's lute, they bring again the blessed angels of joy to the hearts of old and young. These are the wise fa- bles of the fairies, now as ever so beau- tifully true. The first (or No. 1) is the Long-pet- aled Iris [Iris longipetala), or Large- flowered Fleur-de-lis, the first flower of spring; abounding upon open hill-sides and in springy dales. The flower is of a delicate sky-blue ground, with deep purple-blue veins, on stems one to two feet high ; very much sought after on the continent of Europe, and greatly admired for its peculiar style of beauty. We have also the Douglas Iris {Ir'is DouglasU); flower of the deep rich ra- diance of the rainbow; of varied hues, from prevailing indigo to rose -color, delicate flesh-color, and white; a plant of intermediate size, which unobtrusive- ly seeks the shelter of shrubs and the shades of the woods. The Golden Iris is by some considered a variety of this. There is also the little Long-tubed Iris {Iris macrosiphon), o'f deeper, bright- er, richer hue than any other, varying to purple and indigo. lbs glossy, shin- ing, varnished leaves arch over sidewise in the most graceful j)ossible manner. It is the prettiest border plant in the world. The long line of reflected light from the bow of its arch is the most cheerful sight (if allowed expression to 168 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. feeling), of the most vivid slieen of liv- ing green our e^-es ever beheld. The flowers, too, are very remarkable for the length of their tvibe (four to five inches), as the name imports. Add to all this the enlivening fragrance, and the con- summation seems complete. No. 2 is the Western Azalea, or West- ern Honeysuckle Shrub. Among the large family of Azaleas on this conti- nent, perhaps, all points considered, that of the'* Bay of San Francisco sur- passes them all. Let us review for a moment the ground of this opinion, so that we be neither prejudiced nor par- tial judges. To our female friends, and all admir- ers of icJiite flowers, it commends itself by this prime prerequisite. An emblem of chaste purity and innocence — fragrant as the affections that ensphere all true hearts — it embalms the breeze, and ex- hilarates every circle it enters. It has just shade enough of slight buff, or of faint creamj'-yellowish hue, to give rich- ness and variety to one lip — and some- times, like a country lass, it dons a slight pink blush or tinge of modesty. These flowers are not too hasty in their appearance before the public gaze, un- timely suing for admirers, but patiently bide their time, until properly clad with the emblems of due intelligence. Then, amply adorned with new and freshening foliage, the flowers in boun- tiful clusters display themselves against this cheerful background of green in all their glory. And, as if to signify its queenly pre - eminence, the shrub is peerless in height, rising from fifteen to twenty feet. In the clear streams that go softly meandering the mead- ows, the Western Honeysuckle de- lights to bathe her feet ; or, with laud- able ambition, climbs the hills and tall steeps along margins of sweet brooks that "murmur melodiously among the smooth pebbles." Other Azaleas are too often naked and bare of foliage when in bloom, yet have they their peculiar and appropriate beauty. In colder climes, the sun and diamond rain-drops often more than sujiply the lack of leaves. Having been a witness to many, if not all, of the most bril- liant and charming of these native shrubs, north and south, to Alaska, we know of none so striking and exquis- itely beautiful, where all have beauty, as the one of the Far West — the crown- ing glory of our land! Mr. Jas. Lick, and perhaps one or two others, have appreciatively taken this shrub under cultivation. Mr. F. A. Miller is the first nurseryman and gardener, so far as we know, who has yet started it from seed. Why do the invisible heart-asso- ciations cling around some correspond- ent visible object, like this shrub? If ever mortal ears thrill to celestial songs, or, listening to their like, conceive a faint and far-off idea of the blest abodes, it is when the spring shower is over and gone, and the warbling notes of the Hermit Thrush in rolling numbers echo sweetly from out the hollow resounding woods, as we rove in Honeysuckle bow- ers. Startled and entranced, silent and alone! .... Did we listeu to the song of angels, unawares? No. 3 is the Lance-leafed Checkered Bells [Fritillaria lanceolata), Guinea-hen Flower, or Rice- root Lily of the miners. Of these we have several species. The nodding bell-shaped flowers are check- ered with square or slightly oblong- square spots, similar to a checker-board, of dark madder-purple on a greenish or reddish ground-color. The flower- stem is one to two or three feet high, with lance - shajjed leaves in a whorl around the smooth stem below, with a few scattering ones above. In the young state it has but one leaf, very broadly THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 169 lance-form, or somewhat general oblong egg shape, smooth, and of tender, fleshy, herby texture; the leaf-stem about equal in l^igth to the blade. This root-leaf is usually absent the year it blooms. The bulb makes ample provision for fu- ture contingencies, by multiplj'ing in- numerable little baby - bulblets from the mother bulb, that surround the base. When disturbed, they so easily detach, that the earth is filled with them, like grains of rice ; hence the miners' name. The "Edible Lily" of 'Kam.tschaika.{Fritillaria Kamtschaicensis) mentioned by travelers, is a species of this plant, as verified by personal ob- servation iu our expedition to Alaska some years ago. The Red Bells {Frifil- laria recurva) of Mendocino County is by far the most beautiful of the species; the Edible Lil}' is the nearest approach to it, and a very fine species. The Red Bello, or Dwarf Lily, is in shape exact- ly the same as the true Lily. The black spots or checks are very distinct — a per- fect prescript of the modern chess-board and Scotch plaid. No. 4 is Lindley's Primrose {(Enothera Lindlei/i), a choice one among the many beautiful species found in this vicinity; perhaps the best selection that could be made. The flowers are of a cheerful bright rose-color, with deep red or crim- son spots at the base of each petal or flower-leaf, so that the general bright base gives brilliant efi:ect and character to the blossoms: these are about two inches in expansion. The top of the plant, a foot or so in height, is broadly branching, open and airy, with recurved spreading branches and summit. The stems and leaves are so slender and un- obtrusive, that, a little way off, the flowers seem dancing and courtesying magically in the air. Our (E. arciiaia may prove a variety of this, with darker purple flowers and sickle-shaped leaves. No. 5 is the California False Wind- flower {Anemopds Galifornica). This plant in the leafy state somewhat re- sembles the common Water Dock, with which it is often found growing. It may be seen on the margins of mias- matic marsh lands. Here, as ever, we find native antidotes which in mercy the All-Father's finger points out — ever laying the soothing hand of blessing over even fens and pools of filth — fol- lowing mortal men and things into the stagnant mires they will not reclaim. It is one of the best stomachic stimu- lants and tonic ague remedies known, due exceptions always being given to Peruvian bark and its common allies. Five to fifteen grains, or one-fourth to one half a teaspoonful of the powdered root, should be taken three or foui times a day; also, chewed in the mouth constantly for chronic affections of the throat and breast. Although found on the marshes bordering the bay at Oak- land, the flower there has not the bril- liant scarlet tinge we see in specimens from the interior of the State. It is highly probable there may be two spe- cies of this interesting, ornamental, and useful plant. No. 6 is Downing's Beauty (Doivnin- gia elegnns). This Lobelia like flower sports some modest and gay colors, be- sides the pure cheerful white and blue of its more common hue. This is seen oftener iu the interior of our State. It is a tender, succulent, spreading little herb, just suited to the parlor; is very fond of company, and found in patches or "fairy circles" around little lakes or basins, in adobe or strong black cracky clay soils. At Alameda it ti2:)s a bright wink 1)3' the wayside at the traveler, and abounds in the lowlands of San Rafael, the San Jos6 Mission, and elsewhere. If one were always in the mood to play the I'ole of old Esculapius, there are 170 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. virtues that bloom nnnumbered beneath our feet. But there are other and high- er virtues that gleam from Brauh/s eyen — truly the greatest solace of the soul. Thence, perchance, we deem this gross clay of ours only second-best — our sec- ond self. No. 7 belongs to a plant with heart- shaped leaves, cowled and thrown back like a dashing old " calash" bonnet, yet very affectionately clasping the rough stem; found commonly in sterile soils, or infesting corn-fields; some better than a weed, being ornamental if not useful. This is Venus's Looking-glass {Specida- ria perfoliata, var.). How she ever came to peep into this little blue eyedi beauty, history gives no account. It is very likely, however — nay, morally sure, in a certain sense — that, as the plant is a variety of Cat's Ears, and Venus be- ing one of your parlor cats, she just as naturally took to it for a mirror, as do ducks to water. HOKTICULTURE AS A PROFESSION FOR YOUNG LADIES. A very able suggestion for a new pro- fession for gentlemen was made by a correspondent of the Pall Mall Gazelle a short time since. Referring to the want of technical knowledge among amateur lovers of Horticulture and j)ersons pos- sessing small gardens, and the great difficulty of obtaining the services of an educated, well-informed gardener, he suggests that Horticulture be raised to the rank of a profession. "A large proportion of people having gardens can not afford to keep a gardener, and would not have work for one if they could. They are di-iven to the preca- rious assistance of men who^ with the smallest possible knowledge, work at high wages by the day. Even those who have money enough and soil enough to ' keep a gardener' are for- tunate if they can get one, at the ordi- nary wages of a curate, with any knowl- edge of his business. There is a great want among middle-class people in the neighborhood of London, and other great cities or towns, of an intelligent knowledge of Horticulture. People would be willing enough to pay for this knowledge if they could onl}' get it. Our Roses or our Grape-vines de- velop symptoms of disease, and we do not know how to arrest it. It is easy enough in the case of the * human sub- ject.' We send for the doctor. We send for a man who has made medicine or surgery (perhaps both) the study of his life, and he tells us what to do, and, if necessary, he does it. Now, why should we not know to whom to send in our horticultural dilemmas? Why should we not have our diplomatized horticulturists, to whom we might send to rescue our trees and flowers from disease or death? Surely, it is pleas- anter occupation ta bud Roses or to prune fruit-trees, than to cut off human legs or arms, and to extirpate horrid cancers? A thorough knowledge of Bot- any and Horiiculture is not more diffi- cult to attain, and is not less ennobling when attained, than an., equal knowl- edge of surgery and medicine. Why, then, should these pursuits not be erect- ed into a 'gentlemanly profession?'" Why may they not, indeed? And why not, I beg leave to add, into a lady- like profession? I place the sugges- tion before the readers of the Queen, as affording a new and perfectly legit- imate opening for the employment of women, and in a field in which numbers of ladies already excel, more particular- ly as practical gardeners, en amateur, no doubt, but with a skill and taste which are not to be met with in men following the profession or business of THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. 171 gardeners, except a few at the very top of the profession. Why should Ave not have our female Paxtons and Kents? Mrs, Loudon, instructed no doubt by her talented husband, imbibed a great taste for and love of the art ; aud other ladies might find in Horticulture a pro- fession which would be remunerative, and could not detract in itself in any way from their social sfalus as gentle- women. Leaving the laying out of landscape gardens and parks to the gentlemen, there is still, in other branches of gar- dening, a wide field open, in which ladies thoroughly educated in the science of Horticulture and Botany might find employment, and in which their less fortunate sisters, with ordinary strength and less preliminary training, might work. I remember, a short time since, reading an account of a college or school of Horticulture for women in America, and it has long been matter of astonishment to me that, in the pres- ent dearth of remunerative employment for women of the middle-class, no one has yet thought of making them '•'gar- deners." The idea was suggested many years ago, in my hearing, by a well- known literary gentleman, and was called forth by the universal — and it now appears never ending — complaints of the want of knowledge, and, I am sorry to add, the predatory habits of the numerous jobbing gardeners my mother had in her employment. I re- member that one of my sisters and my- self, in utter despair of getting any good work or good result in the way of flowers for effect, or fruit for eating, from the coachman -gardener and his numerous myrmidons of gardeners by the day, took upon ourselves the entire superintendence of the greenhouse and out-door garden. The former was a very large one, the latter a good sized suburban piece of ground. We only stipulated for the services of the man to remove large pots, dig the ground where very heavy, and wash the green- house ; he was to be entirely under our orders. We Avent to work with enthu- siasm, detenaiued to succeed, and, as a matter of course, we did succeed beyond our hopes. Of com-se, if there are women (but I am loth to believe it) so foolish as to be afraid of soiling their hands or spoil- ing their complexion by being much out in the 023en air, I do not address them. My suggestions are meant for those who look upon the duties of life seriously, and who, being compelled by circumstances to earn their daily sub- sistence, would find in Horticulture not only a remunerative but a delightful occupation ; and if the Pall Mall cor- respondent be correct in his views, it would i^ay. He sajj: "Of course, the question may suggest itself, will it pay? I am quite disposed to think it would. I, for my part, and I have heard others sa}'^ the same, would often be glad to pay my guinea for a visit from a skilled horticulturist." If the want of scientific knowledge among working gardeners is as great as this implies, women, by taking up the pro- fession, could do no injury to the other sex; they would oust no one from his place, and would simply step into a void, filling up the gap between the shining lights of Horticulture and Bot- any, and the ignorant, obstinate, job- bing gardener, who very often takes the name of one without any knowledge of the duties, but a great idea of the perquisites of the situation. — The Queen. Sponges of good quality are found on the coast of Florida, but the fishing is not extensively prosecuted there. I7i THE CiJLllX^KNlA HaUIOVLTllUST. BSI>0£S. »T r. J. Hwruu T^ SMbj*et of h*^i^ feuc« is an im- Boctuii ott« viih u$. Ererr rear, as tiail»rb«eoaMsa»^n.^r. the u«cos;$ity ( as vail «s 1^ )o^ o^ beautr. buth in gar- dMM m»d &«lds), for some substitute for posts, rails, and Kiards, beconoa more af^ai^U OiM of Um most expenare fj^amt m a fnul or flower cultirator's accounts is bis fencing bill ; no one is ao wekl ftequainted mth this fact as fciMMlf Tkal he does not immediatelr acv*oid to Hve ttmcta the pt^^ierence, is aia{4j WcMBM, irith all his knowledge of tko oontavMd cool of the preoMt ^jofciM^ ka is nol aare thai, witlkoai a •■■t atill grcaler, lire fenooa ean OTor be Bttie eqoal to the WKxien oaes in aer<> vaee for all the ponpoeee to ^rhich "poet mi latb," ete., are applied. We must ooafaaa t^t when we look at the few lire fences that we see in anj part of ^:^4ftr»iiA there ia good reason for this aid erea dialike to the — aaj — *' new-iangled DotHm." tkese attempts hare been at hedging, it would be difficult to point ovk erea a single instance in ■toih agSBoine fanner or horticulturist voold Bo4 resoonabhr prefer some kind of woodea feaee. We are continuallj of the hedges of Europe bj wiiten, who hold up those aa akodals worthv of imitation. B«t» WW wko "hare bet}ior wt 'i tb« pper shrabs, and with g> ^ ^:ueut ad proper pains, we can wake in this l||hly fsToied soil and chmate veiy god hedges, and when the science of ie subject is understood, can make tern superior to anyt' " rope caa nv,lioe. There they \ use the ^ or White Thorn; and this i v:v e for us poattUy, ... _:. stonL. ^.- ^ .1. We have also ame excellent plants with whieh to lake them, h <>r to ay of the u : : reiga bdges are made. I allude, ft>r in* iance, to the Osage Orange; for an- cher, the Honey Locust; and for a tird, that plant lately recommended ad f und ii; "~ te in great abun- onc'- — the ( -x Wild Chen^t — i'erjstu iilin/olia). The first has prov- valuable boon to the farmers of ^ and the prairie lands generally, "here timber is rery scarce ; and in ktgland just now, its introdnetioa tere is exciting unirersal attention, lie seeand lonas a strong hedge, and ha been found successful in the East i turning efTeotually all stock ; and the tird, although not yet tried to any ex- ■»tatf >>|i>a^ ^*^^s«aa ^i. THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 173 tent, has every quality to make a good hedge in our climate, and has succeeded as a beautiful hedge with F. B. Fuller, opposite the Los Gatos Nursery. In starting to make a hedge of either of these, it must not be forgotten that they are, all of them, naturally /rt'cs-; and as we want them to become shrubs when in the condition of a hedge, we have to resort to peculiar treatment to make them alter their nature. The object is to check their tree -growing, upright tendency, and to make them dwarf and very bushy. Now, one of the very worst modes of eflfecting this, is to give them severe prunings at the fall of the year, and little or no atten- 'tion in the summer season. Yet this is the almost universal practice with those who try them. At the time of planting, the plants are cut to within sis or nine inches of the ground, and every suc- ceeding fall or winter, for three or four successive years, cut nearly back to where they sprouted from. They gen- erally get a shearing about August or September — not sooner; a few weeds are taken out once or twice a year, and this is their almost invariable course of treatment. An experienced physiologist will at once perceive that this practice will never make a good hedge out of sub- jects naturally trees; but this is not so apparent to the "uninitiated." To them it seems one of the most natural things in the world, that to make anything bushy, all that needs to be done is to head it down. But this is only true under certain conditions. The first process with hedge trees is to make them shrubs, which must be done by some of the known princi- ples of dwarfing. There are three recognized modes of dwarfing trees, namely, ringing, root -pruning, and summer -pruning. The two former be- VOL. III.— 23. ing impracticable in such an extensive affair a% hedging, the last mode is the only available one for the purpose. Summer -pruning has a very remarka- ble effect on trees, the exact reverse of pruning when plants are in a compara- tive state of rest. If a tree is cut down immediately after the fall of the leaf, or in September or October, the next season it pushes forth with renewed vigor, determined, as it were, more than ever to be the tree nature designed it. So great is this power given it by the winter or late pruning, that if a few successive years of this system were persevered in, without any counteract- ing influence from summer -pruning, what few side branches the stump had made would be entirely destroyed, and nothing would remain but a dense mass of erect, strong -growing shoots. On the other hand, cutting off the shoots of trees immediately after they have put forth in the spring, so weakens them, that in a few years the trees would die outright. It is obvious, that to make a good live fence out of trees — that isj to make them become good shrubs, with a uni- form growth both at the sides and at the top — some discrimination is neces- sary in the matter of pruning. The strong - growing central shoots only should be cut off in summer, and this, too, before they have completed their season's growth. The sides should be encouraged to make the strongest growth possible ; which is to be attained by pruning in the winter, and in the winter only. If these principles were duly recog- nized, live hedges would cost but half the expense they now do ; because, though they would have to be gone over twice a year, they would in fact receive but one complete pruning. We conceive that in offering these 174 THE CALIFOENIA HOKTICULTURIST. remarks, by bringing this subject before the thinking portion of the community, from whom the most substantial knowl- edge is dispensed to the tillers of the soil, Avho, in general, are too apt to undervalue what is called mere book knowledge, we are aiding a not unim- portant branch of horticultural knowl- edge. • FLAVOKING WITH LEAVES. Leaves are more or less popular for garnishing, but it has often surprised me, says a correspondent of the Garden, that they are so little used for flavoring. "With the excej)tion of sweet and bitter herbs grown chiefly for the purpose, and Parsley (which is neither bitter nor sweet, but the most popular of all fla- voring plants), comparatively few other leaves are used. Perhaps I ought also to except the Sweet Bay, which is popu- lar in rice and other puddings, and cer- tainly imparts one of the most pleas- ant and exquisite flavors. But, on the other hand, what a waste there is of the flavoring properties of Peach, Almond, and Laurel leaves, so richly charged with the essence of Bitter Almonds, so much used in most kitchens ! Of course, such leaves must be used with caution, but so must the spirit as well. An in- fusion of these could readily be made, either green or dry, and a tea or table- spoonful of the flavoring liquid used to taste. One of the most useful and harmless of all leaves for flavoring is that of the common Syringa. When Cucumbers are scarce, these are a per- fect substitute in salads or anything in which that flavor is desired. The taste is not only like that of Cucumbers, but identical — a curious instance of the correlation of flavors in widely difl'erent families. Again, the young leaves of Cucumbers have a striking likeness in the way of flavor to that of the fruit. The same may be affu'med of Carrot- tops, which are as like carrots in taste as may be. In most gardens there is a prodigious waste of Celery flavor in the sacrifice of the external leaves and their partially blanched footstalks. Scores of sticks of Celery are cut up into soup, when the outsides would flavor it equal- ly well or better. The young leaves of Gooseberries added to bottled fruit give a fi'esher flavor and a greener color to pies and tarts. The leaves of the Flow- ering Currant give a sort of intermedi- ate flavor between that of Black and Red Currants. Orange, Citron, and Lemon leaves impart a flavoring equal to that of the fruit and rind combined, and somewhat different from both. A few leaves added to pies, or boiled in the milk used to bake with rice, or formed into crusts or paste, impart an admirable and almost inimitable bou- quet. In short, leaves are not half so much used for seasoning purposes as they might be. Utilization of Sawdust. — M. Gustavo Hueze says that, though sawdust de- comj^oses very slowly, yet it may be economically used as a litter in stables, and left for several months in contact with the solid and liquid excrement of animals, which it readily absorbs. It may also be composted with quick-lime and left in a heap for about a j'ear. Ad- ditions may be made to this heap from time to time, but, when such additions are made, the whole heaj) should be well stirred. It will be imjDroved by being frequently ■ saturated with urine or sewer-water. Sawdust thus treated may be used on partially exhausted soils with great advantage. — Deparlment of AgricaUare. The vintage of the Australian vine- yards is estimated at 500,000 gallons. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 175 THE CULTURE OF CAMELLIA JAPONICA. Read before the Bay District Horticultural Society BY K. MICHELSEN. lu joreseutiiigf this essaj' for consider- ation, it is not my intention to give the results of experience in this couutr}' of the culture of this valuable plant, be- cause ws may safely assume, the Camel- lia has never been cultivated here! For importing jDlants from the East, potting them and giving them a place in the greenhouse, and only looking after them when the flowers are develoj^ing, can not be called cultivation in the prop- er sense. Cultivation is the continued effort to bring it to its highest possible standard of perfection; or, to what I especially refer, the raising it in large quantities for the trade. Heretofore our nurserymen, who should be leading cultivators of those plants which require a more careful and peculiar treatment, never found the necessary time for it; they, I deeply re- gret to say, joining the general exertion for the acquirement of material wealth as fast as possible, neglected those plants which did not bring the desired pecuniaiy results at shortest notice. I feel confident that the raising of Camel- lias, after once being fairly started, would prove to be more renumerative than those plants that anybody can raise easily in large quantities in a short time. The growers of Camellias would be more protected against competition, hj the very nature of the plant; as it takes at least three years before a plant is.sal- able, and those plants which arrive here from the East are at least doubled in price on account of freight, loss on the road, etc. Instead of importing Camel- lias, they should be made an article of export, as we have considerable advan- tages in raising them, in regard to cli- mate, over the eastern cultivators. All vegetables grow here to the great- est perfection. California has become proverbial for its immense production of plants, flowers and fruits, and there is no good reason why we should not be just as successful with Camellias. It is asserted, even l>y practical horticultur- ists, that the climate is not favorable! The air is too dry, dust, scorching sun, etc., are the only reasons given; but have not the cultivators of this noble plant elsewhere also to battle against these adverse influences, besides a great many more? I need only to mention the long, cold and damp winter they suffer in the East and in Europe, to give a thrill of horror to every experi- enced horticulturist. The Camellia is here cultivated in greenhouses only, and the impression appears to be general, that it will not grow in the open air, and even not in frames, although it is a perfectly hardy l^lant; more insensible to the effects of cold than Cycas revolufa, Chamerops humilis, etc., which do well in sheltered localities. If proper attention is paid to the Camellia, and it is sheltered against wind, heavy rain, and excessive heat, and receives such soil as its peculiari- ties require, and good drainage, I have not the least doubt its growth would afford perfect satisfaction. Regarding no other plant, it may be safel}' said, do more differences of opinion exist in ref- erence to its culture, even among suc- cessful cultivators, than of this plant; thvis showing that the Camellia is in fact not very particular as to the mode of its treatment. This, however, will be conceded by all, that it must be mod- erately shaded against the scorching sun; that it should be kept rather moist dur- ing the flowering season and while it is forming new leaves, and when these are hardened the supj)ly of water should be gradually diminished, and the soil 176 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. be kept coniparativel}' dry, while the plants should be sprinkled twice a day to assist the newly forming buds in developing into flower-buds, otherwise they are likely to start afresh into sec- ond growth, and then, in most cases, all the flowers are lost. In regard to the proper soil, opinions differ widely. I have seen Camellias cultivated in rich, fibrous peat, mixed with one-half sand; they grew in this soil, in frames, as thriftily as a Plttoqyo- rum toblra grows here in the open air. But as peat of that quality can not be obtained here, I would recommend a mixture of three parts rich loam, two parts peat, and one part sand. Our eastern friends appear to prefer a heavy soil for Camellias; the ball of the im- ported plants is always as hard as a brick. It is really surprising that the Camellias do not give it up in despair, before they are considered sufiiciently strong to be sent out to California. Let us now turn our attention to the raising of plants. Begin at the begin- ning, and make the cuttings with three to four eyes early in spring, put them in the bed in the propagating house, cover them with extra glass, keep them close, and give regular bottom heat of about 75° to 80°. In about two months they will make roots; when these have attained sufficient strength, give the young plants three -inch pots, and put them in a moderately hot bed. After they have made here their first growth, and the leaves are hardened, the better varieties may be planted out in a frame, while those which have to be grafted must be kept under glass until August of the following year, when they will be strong enough for the operation. This grafting is a very simple process : a cut is made half through the stem on a convenient place ; the scix)n is cut wedge-like on both sides with a clean cut, and of the length of about two to three eyes; insert it into the stem, tie some soft cotton string around it, and put the plant in a jiropagating house; this should be kept moist and close; the plant should not be sprinkled. If the operation is performed carefully, the scion will have formed connection with the plant in six to eight weeks; then the new plant must be hardened gradually, be ke2:)t under glass during the winter, and planted out in a frame in the spring. The frame should be two and one-half feet high, the floor being nine inches below the walk; five to six inches of sand should be filled in, and on this a layer of six inches of soil. After these preparations are completed, all is ready for planting out the young Camellias. Plant them in rows, about nine inches, and the plants in the rows six inches, apart. The frame should now be kept close and well shaded; watering should be done in the morning. It will also have a very beneficial effect if the plants are sprinkled in the afternoon, before the sun disappears, and the frame then be closed. The water evaporating, will produce a moist, soft air, which will ef- fectually prevent the red spider and other insects from infesting the plants. After the plants have igade their first growth, they should receive more air. Whether it would be advisable here to remove the glass entirely during sum- mer, and give shade only, I am not pre- pared to say; I am, however, inclined to the opinion, that it would be more beneficial to keep the plants under glass, especially as I have not the least doubt they will, after they have had sufficient rest, make a second growth, during which they should receive similar treat- ment to that in spring. The glass may be taken off during the fall, until the heavy rains set in. Next spring, before the plants begin to grow, they should be THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 177 cut back, according to size and strength of plant, in order to make tliem bushy and to get cuttings. They must now be treated as last year. The majority of the phints will be salable when they have finished their first growth; then they must be potted, put in a green- house, and be kept close and shady. There they must remain until fall, when they will have formed new roots, and then are ready for sale. FISH CULTURE. Nearly every known animal, large or small, has its own peculiar parasites or lice, that i^rey upon the larger animal, generally to its inconvenience, and oftentimes afi'ecting the health. It would seem as though fish, constantly immersed in Avater, might be free from parasites, but such is not the fact. Liv- ingston Stone, in his woi'k on "Domes- tic Trout," sa3's: "It is well known that when trout become injured or unhealthy, a fungoid growth apjDears in blotches over the surface of their back, and usually ter- minates in fatal results in a few days. It has been supposed that the fungus eats into the tissue of the fish, and de- stroys it. "The microscope reveals, however, that it is not the fungus that penetrates into the fish, but a multitude of micro- scopic worms. They are not found in the upper parts of the fungus, but just be- low the roots, or where the fungus joins on the surface of the skin. Here, be- tween the roots of the fungus and the body of the fish are found hundreds of these creatures, incessantly in motion, and apparently eating vigorously. "They are about one-eightieth of an inch in length and one two-hundredths of an inch in diameter, and are provid- ed with a mouth, and at the other ex- tremity with about twenty claw-like appendages for fastening on to the fish on which they feed. They are contin- ually eating into the tissues of the fish, and the twenty tentacles enable them to fasten on so tightly that the fish can not shake them off. These parasites appear to live on the flesh of the fish, and the fungus to live on the digested matter into which they transform it. ' ' This discovery led to some experi- ments in search of a remedy, and it was found that a strong solution of salt destroys the parasites. Experiments were then made of immersing a trout in salt water, and it was found to be l^erfectly harmless, if not too long-con- tinued. A method was thus found of killing the parasites without killing the fish, which fact Avas confirmed by actu- ally taking a trout covered Avith fungus and immersing him in a salt bath for a moment or two, and afterward keeping him by himself for several days. The fungus peeled off, the parasites were killed, the bare spots healed over, and the trout got well. " From all of Avhich we maA', I think, draw the following conclusions; That it is the worm, and not the fungus, which eats into and kills the fish; and that the fish can be cured, Avhen not too much Aveakened, by immersion in a strong solution of salt. I used a table- spoonful of salt to a pint of water, and kept the fish in it till he went over on his back, and then took him out and put him instantly into cold running Avater. " To Prevent Rust. — It is said that equal parts of carbolic acid and olive oil, smeared over the surface of the in- struments, are an unfailing preventive of rust in any climate. 178 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. O^tUtflvial goilMio. It is a source of deep regret and mor- tifying discouragement to us, that so little interest was taken in tlie late Floral Exhibition of our Horticultural Society, in this city, by the general public, and more especially by those of the community who affect a love of the beautiful and vaunt their refinement of taste. It is useless to plead horse-dis- temper, inclemency of the weather, etc., as these impediments did not prevent the attendance at other places of amuse- ment; and it is evident that horse-rac- ing, circus-riding, and the grimaces and antics of clowns, with the attendant noisy and coarse music, are more taste- ful to a very large portion of our popu- lation. Although we were in a measure sus- picious of these preferences, yet we hoped a further advancement of taste had been made, and that although a creditable appreciation of the higher- grade music and purer and more natural delights of a flower and plant exhibi- tion might not be displayed by the public, yet for the sake of their chil- dren, whose mental cultivation and re- finement are largely assisted by such instructive displays, we trusted that sufficient patronage would have been awarded the Society to have at least reimbursed it in the actual outlay for the music, decorations, and the num- erous etceteras, instead of leaving it some $2,000 deficient, independently of the unrequited labor of not a few enthusiastic members of the Society, whose bitter disajipointment and dis- gust can be readily imagined. We must nevertheless state, that there were many pleasing exceptions to this too general apathy, and we are happy to say, that, although the attendance was light, yet it consisted of the elite of our community, in education, wealth, and refinement, and that they were highly ap])reciative. It was doubtless on these points the best recognized of our fairs; and to these friends, as mark- ing their approval of what they saw and heard, wo suggest a kindly considera- tion of the following appeal, which the Trustees of the Society have considered expedient to address to them. San Francisco, June, 1873. Dear Sir: — It has been the misfort- une of the Bay District Horticultural Society of California, to meet with a very heavy loss in their late Spring Ex- hibition. Various circumstances, among which may be mentioned the horse dis- ease, the inclemency of the weather, and the general depression of business, may be assigned as causes for the apathy exhibited by the general public. It is, however, very apjjareut that but little interest is taken in the arduous efforts of this Society to foster taste, supply information, discuss matters per- taining to Horticulture, encourage the culture of useful and ornamental trees and shrubs, and introduce such plants as are desirable for our peculiar climate. Our Art Association, our Mechanics' Institute, our Academy o| Sciences, are each well sustained. Then why, also, should not the Horticultural Society receive like support? Certainly it is of the greatest importance to California, that the horticultural and floral as well as the agricultural resources of our State should be fully developed, both for prof- it, for comfort, and for ornament. Since the unfortunate result to the Society of the Spring Fair has become more generally known, a feeling of kindly sympathy has arisen, accom- panied with a general exjiression that the Society should be sustained. In order to avail ourselves of this increased THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 179 interest in the welfare of this Society, and to place the institution on a better basis, the Trustees have considered it expedient to appeal to all who feel an interest in Horticulture and Floricult- ure, to become members ; and they hope that at least three hundred life-mem- bers may volunteer into its ranks. E. J. Hooper, Esq., a gentleman well identified with the interests of Horticult- ure and Floriculture, has kindly con- sented to wait U2:)on you for your con- sent to become a life-member of our in- stitution. We append the following- extract from the press: The recent Floral Exhibition. — We regret very riauch to know that the late "Floral Exhibition" in our city, and for which so much labor, time, and money has been expended, has most undoubtedly, resulted in a considerable loss to the Horticultural Society, as well as to its members. The question now arises, wh}^ is this ? We have a city of over one hundred and seventy thousand people, and although a very handsome place of entertainment was ojDened for them at a very low cost, a display of the very choicest products of the gardens and conservatories, plants of great beauty and rarity, together with the luxury of the choicest music both by day and evening, for a week, yet during a greater part of the da}^ the hall has received but few visitors, and even in the evenings the attendance has been slim. Have our people lost the love of flow- ers and music ? or are they so wedded to the pursuits of business and to money- making that these higher claims upon their natures have become as it were dormant. When we visited this " Hall of Floral Beauty," and saw so few visitors, we confess we were not onl}^ surprised but sorrowful, for it does not speak well for the tastes and the lil'erality of our citi- zens, who should give an earnest en- couragement to exhibitions of this kind, for they are the narserieti of a higher taste in the youth of this age; and, like the " Art Union" of our city, which we are glad to know is highly prosperous, this Society and these exhibitions should be as liberally sustained, for " Art and Nature" are the handmaids of Science — they are the beautifiers of the earth. REPORTS OF SOCIETIES. American Pomological Society: Four- teenth Session, and Quarter -Centennial Celebration. — Whereas, the American Pomological Society, at its last session, accepted the invitation of the Massa- chusetts Horticultural Society, to hold its Quarter-Centennial Celebration and Biennial Session in the city of Boston, in 1873: Therefore, in conformity with said acceptance, the undersigned give notice that the Fourteenth Session of this Na- tional Association will be held in the hall of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, Tremont Street, in Boston, commencing Wednesday, September 10th, 1873, at 10 o'clock, a. m., and continue for three days. All horticultural, pomological, agri- cultural, and other kindred associations, in the United States and British Prov- inces, are invited to send delegations, as large as the}" may deem exjDedient, and all persons interested in the culti- vation of fruits are invited to be pres- ent and take seats in the Convention. The coming session will be especially interesting, commemorating, as it will, the termination of the first quarter of a century of the existence of the Society, and it is believed will be one of the most important and useful that the So- ciety has ever held. On this occasion there will be brought together the best cultivators and fruits of our widely ex- tended country, when may be examined and compared the fruits, not only of the cooler climes of the North, but of the South and West, and the Pacific slope. It is therefore very desirable 180 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTUEIST. that every State, Territory and Province of America should be fully and ably represented in this convention, thereby promoting the advancement of one of the great resources of our national wealth, the extension and perpetuation of the Amicable and social relations which have heretofore existed among the members of the Society, and the diffusion throughout the land of our deliberations, for the benefit of our constantly expanding territory. It is therefore hoped that there will be a full attendance of delegates from all quarters of our country, thereby stimulating more extensive cultivation by the concentrated information and experience of cultivators, and aiding the Society in perfecting its Catalogue of Fruits. This will be one of the prominent subjects which will come before the Society, and we therefore respectfully urge the various State and local committees which have not al- ready resjDonded to the circular of P. Barry (Chairman of the General Fruit Committee, Kochestcr, N. Y.), to do so, with such information and lists of fruits as may aid in determining what varie- ties are best adaj)ted to their several localities. At this session the Society will ap- point the place for its next meeting, and also decide what action it will take on the invitation to participate in the International Exhibition at the Centen- nial Celebration of 1876, in Philadel- phia, and it is respectfully requested that members come prepared to express their opinions in regard to this subject. Arrangements will be made with ho- tels, and as far as possible with the various railroad companies, terminating in Boston, for a reduction of fare, and of which notice will be given in a future circular. Similar arrangements can undoubtedly be made by the various delegations with roads in their locali- ties. Members and delegates are requested to conti'ibute specimens of the fruits of their respective districts, and to com- municate in regard to them whatever may aid in promoting the objects of the Society and the science of American Pomology. Each contributor is re- quested to prepare a complete list of his collection, and to j^resent the same with his fruits, that the re2:)ort of all the varieties entered may be submitted to the meeting as early as practicable. The Massachusetts Society for pro- moting Agriculture have kindly appro- IDriated five hundred dollars, and liberal sums have been promised by other gen- erous patrons. See premium list. An increased interest will be given to the occasion by the Grand Exhibition of Plants and Flovrers by the Massa- chusetts Horticultural Society, which will occur at the same time. Packages of Fruits, with the name of the contributor, may be addressed as follows: ^'American Fomological Soci- ety," care of E. W. Buswell, Massachu- setts Horticultural Societ}', Boston. All persons desirous of becoming members can remit the fee to Thomas P. James, Esq., Treasurer, Cambridge, Mass. Life Membership, twenty dol- lars; Biennial, four dollars. Marshall P. Wilcer, Boston, Mass, F. K. Elliott, Secretary, Cleveland, Ohio. Spring Exhibition of the Bay Dis- trict Horticultural Society. — The first annual Spring Exhibition of our Horti- cultural Society oj^ened on Wednesday, May 8th, at Horticultural Hall. At 3 o'clock P.M., punctually. Dr. A. Kellogg, the worthy President of the THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 181 Society, introduced the orator of the day, Dr. E. S. Carr, Professor of Agri- culture of the State University, who de- livered the opening- address. The Pro- fessor, in his usual style, gave a very interesting sketch of the history of Hor- ticulture ; reviewing its progress from the earliest period of ancient times to the present day; and he succeeded well in his efforts to enlighten his hearers, and to encourage their praiseworthy en- deavors to advance the px-ogress of Hor- ticulture. Professor Carr spoke from his manu- script for fifty minutes. His address had no immediate reference to the Ex- hibition; it did not criticise the produc- tions displayed in the hall ; but it re- viewed the history of Horticulture from the birth of civilization in India to the present day. The Professor adverted to gardening among the Hindoos, the Assyrians, the Hebrews, the Egyptians, the Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and the Aztecs ; and then he spoke of gardening in modern Europe and modern America. He remarked that what France can af- ford to do at Versailles and Fontaine- bleau, and England at Kew Gardens, we can afford to do in California. Our people w^ere beginning to realize the benefit of public gardens to health and morals. What we need more than any- thing else, is the general diffusion of a knowledge of the subjects relating to Horticulture, among the whole people. Botany ought to be one of the daily studies in all our common schools. Our city parks should be so planted as to furnish these schools with essential ob- jects of instruction, and every country school-house ought to have its shrub- bery and its garden. Crowning and completing this, our State should pos- sess, either connected with its Capitol, or University, or both, a botanic gar- den and arboretum, in which specimens Vol. III.— 24. of every plant adapted to this clime might be found. "We had excellent models at Kew Gardens, and the Gar- den of Plants, at Paris, both of which, besides being of inestimable value to science, are good examples of scientific gardening. Both had grown up from humble beginnings to be the pride of their respective nations. The features of these gardens the Professor now^ de- scribed ; and he remarked, that at Kew are to be found more of the refinements of horticultural art than in any place in the whole world. He feared it would be a long time before we have in Cali- fornia such a collection of our noble coniferous trees and shrubs as was ex- hibited in the arboretum at Kew, not to speak of the Indian, Chinese, Japan- ese, South American, and Australian Flora, so ably rejDresented under glass and in the open ground. But that we have made some beginning in the right way, there were abundant evidences before them. The Horticultural Socie- ty had, he doubted not, a noble and useful career before it. Such exhibi- tions as the present were of immense value, from the stimulus that they gave to public and private undertakings; and ranked, perhaps, higher than public gardens in usefulness, inasmuch as they diffused so much information thi'ough their published proceedings. This had been the case with the Royal Society of England, and in our own country the Massachusetts Horticultural Society had attained a high rank. We should prob- ably never see in America such an arbo- retum and flower -palace as at Chats- worth, or such a fifty-acre flower-garden as that of Drumlanrigg, the result of private enterprise; but we should see them, he trusted, in our co-operative parlors and gardens, and in the grounds of our State institutions, or we should be found wanting in one of the most 182 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. vital and significant marks of a high civilization : and he trusted that the time was not far distant when the pos- sibilities of this coast in Horticulture, Floriculture, and Agriculture, would be realized on the University grounds at Berkeley. Every state in Europe had noble collections of useful and orna- mental plants — had them even in their colonies, as the French at Martinique, and the English at Melbourne, in Vic- toria, and Sydney, in New South Wales. Even Bi-azil sets us an example worthy of imitation. The Professor was heartily applauded at the close of his address. Dr. Kellogg then announced the Ex- hibition open to the public, and all present availed themselves of the op- portunity to examine the various collec- tions. The hall presented a very gay and festive aiDpearance, and nothing seems to have been neglected to make the Ex- hibition a perfect success. The deco- rations were very appropriate and com- plete; the music all that could be de- sired. Everyone conceded that the enterprise deserved a fair appreciation from the public, and a financial suc- cess. The plants in general were far supe- rior to those exhibited on former occa- sions, and this fact alone gave the most favoi-able indication of progress. The better cultivation, better selections, and a better arrangement of the various groups, did not escape the notice of the visitors. To give a full description of all the details would take up too much space in these columns, and as most of our readers undoubtedly visited the Exhibi- tion themselves, we shall confine our- selves to the leading features. In all 138 entries were made, each entry representing a collection. The principal exhibitors were E. L. Reimer, P. Liidemann & Co., Miller & Sievers, E. Meyer, and R. B. Woodward. The most meritorious groups may be summed up as follows: Floxoeruuj Plants in Bloom, of which three collections were entered. The collection of Mr. E. Meyer obtained the first prize. Of Evergreens indigenous to Australia, two collections were offered. The col- lection of Mr. E. L. Reimer was really meritorious, containing over 100 differ- ent species, well cultivated; he obtained the first prize. Of Coniferous Trees, two entries were made. Mr. Reimer received the first prize. Conservatory and Greenhouse Plants were well represented; three collections were entered. The first prize was award- ed to Mr. E, Meyer; but we think that the decision of the judges on this jDoint may be criticised, as also in various others. It would have been more satis- factory to the exhibitors and the public, had the report of the judges been ac- companied by explanations, assigning reasons for their decision. However, more of this at some other time. Bedding Plants were shown in two collections, and F. Liidemann & Co. obtained the first jDrize. Hardy Ornamental Foliage Plants were represented in two collections. We no- ticed in these groups a very remarkable improvement. Many really excellent and valuable specimens were shown. The collection of Mr. Reimer obtained the first prize. Tender Ornamental Foliage Plaints al- ways form one of the most attractive features of floral exhibitions. Three collections were shown, and, as usual, it was a foregone conclusion that Mr. Woodward deserved the first prize, which was awarded to him. The sec- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 183 ond prize was adjudged to Miller & Sievers. Tropical Plants were fairly represent- ed in the group arranged by Mr. Brown of Woodward's Gardens. He very de- servedly obtained the first prize without any competition. Climbing Playits were well represent- ed by three different exhibitors. The collections wei'e extensive, and made a good showing throughout. In our opin- ion the various collections were equally meritorious; however, the first prize was adjudged to E. Meyer. .New and Pare Playiis were shown in four different collections. We can not uphold the rulings of the judges on this point. The exhibits were all more or less meritorious. Of Plants adapted for Hayiging Bas- kets and Bock-ioork, the collection of F. Liidemann & Co. was awarded the first prize, and well deserved it. The Exhibit of Feriis made a grand showing, and formed one of the leading features of the Exhibition. There was only one general collection entered, by Miller & Sievers, numbering over fifty species, all in fine condition. The first prize was awarded to them. Mr. Woodward entered Twelve Speci- men Fe7'ns, which represented some ex- cellent varieties, but did not come up to the standard of specimen Ferns; al- though they deserved the prize for which they competed. Miller & Sievers exhibited Five Speci- men Ferns, which were the best plants ever shown here. Of Ornamental Grasses, the same firm had a good collection, for which they received the first prize. Poses in Bloom are always most desir- able features in an exhibition. Three collections were entered, the best of which was shown by Mr. E. L. Reimer. The judges gave him the third prize, declining to give the first or second, for which act we can not assign any suffi- cient reason. A general opinion pre- vailed, that Mr. Reimer was entitled to the first prize. His roses were well- grown, in healthy condition, and free from mildew, which has of late affected nearly all the Roses in this neighbor- hood. His collection comprised forty- three excellent and popular varieties, all in perfect bloom. For Cinerarias, the first prize was awarded to Mr. E. Meyer. For Coleus, F. Liidemann & Co. ob- tained the first prize. The same firm received the first prize for Fuchsias. The first prize for Double Geraniums, and also for Variegated Leaf Geraniums, was given to Mr. Reimer. Floivering Begonias v^ere exhibited by Miller & Sievers, and obtained the first prize. The following additional prizes were awarded : For Variegated Leaf Begonias, first prize to Mr. Woodward. For Auriculas and Primulas, first prize to Miller & Sievers. For Pansies, first prize to F. Liide- mann & Co. For Verbenas, first prize to Miller & Sievers. For Pinks, first prize to E. Meyer. For Petunias, second prize to Miller & Sievers. For Camellias in bloom, second prize to E. Meyer. For Best-grown Plants, in ten varieties, first prize to E. L. Reimer. For Plants indigenous to California, first prize to Miller & Sievers. For Bustic Hanging Baskets — First prize to Miller & Sievers. The same firm obtained the first prizes on Wire Hanging Baskets, Bustic Flower Stand, Wire Flowei- Stand, and Bound Fern-case. Ui THE CALIFORNIA HOXITICULTURIST. The exhibit of Goniferce Cones, by Mr. C. Stephens, was the most complete ever shown here, and was awarded the first prize. Mr. E. Meyer received the first prize on his beautiful Squai-e Fern-case. The exhibit of Cut Flowers was not so general as might have been expect- ed. We understand that some of our florists were deterred from exhibiting on account of pressure of business. This may be so. "VVe know a much bet- ter display could have been made. The most meritorious general collection of Cut Flowers was placed on exhibition by Messrs. Liidemann & Co., who received the first prize. The Cat Hoses of Mr. Reimer were really beautiful, and worthy of close examination. He deserved and obtain- ed the first prize. The Cat Pansies of Messrs. Liide- mann & Co. were exquisite, and could not have been better; they were award- ed the first prize. The Cut Pinks of Miller & Sievers were excellent, and were rewarded by the first prize. The judges on Plants, Cut Flowers, and miscellaneous articles, were: Mr, Ed. Wolleb, an amateur and lover of flowers; Mr. Henry A. Sonntag, form- erly one of the leading florists of this city; and Mr. Nicholson, a well-known florist and nurseryman of Oakland. The Bouquet Show took place on Mon- day, May 12th, and was, contrary to our expectations, meagre. "We were sor- ry to see that so little interest was man- ifested in this particular branch of floral exhibition, when it is a well-known fact that our San Francisco people can well appreciate a good floral ornament in the shape of a bouquet, basket, etc. The three principal exhibitors were E. Meyer, Miller & Sievers, and E. L. Reimer. Mr. Meyer received the first prize on his Round Bouquets and Wedding Bou- quets. Miller & Sievers were awarded the first prizes on their Basket of Flotoers, Funeral W7'eath, Cross, and Flat Bou- quets. E. L. Reimer deserved and received the first jn-ize on his gigantic and well- shaped Pyramid Bouquet. The judges on Bouquets and Baskets were Mr. C. Schuman, Mr. C. Stephens, and Mr. A. O. Cook. Financially, the Exhibition was a complete failure: the Society has sus- tained a loss of $2,000. This is a very lamentable fact, and not flattering to the taste of the people of San Francis- co. We are surprised at the result, and can not understand why the attendance at the Exhibition Hall was not more numerous. Certainly there was noth- ing wanted to please the visitor. All who were pi-esent were delighted, and general satisfaction was expressed. We shall at some other time have more to say in regard to this neglect of more generous suj^poii; to an institution so well deserving of the good- will of our peojole. Something must be done to awaken more interest in Horticulture on this coast, and the sooner a strenuous effort is made by the Society to increase the list of their members to about five hundred, the better it will be for all concerned. We venture to say, however, that the Exhibition would have yielded more money if circumstances had been more favorable. The postponement of the opening from May 1st to May 8th created some confusion, and unnecessarily increased the expense of advertising and other preparatory work. The weather during the time of the Exhibition was very unpleasant and un- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 185 favorable; so much so that many who were anxious to attend were compelled to stay at home with their families. The evenings were very cold and windy, and offered no inducement to promenade, We hope most sincerely that the So- ciety will be enabled speedily to over- come the effects of their loss, by ap- pealing to the generosity of many hun- dreds of our wealthy citizens, who should consider it a pleasing duty to ex- tend their support to an institution so well calculated to benefit the communi- ty and the State at large. Cherrt- Trees. — These should never be highly manured. Singular as it may seem, better results have been obtained by growing Cherry-trees in grass than by cultivating them as highly as Pears. Experienced fruit-growers in Delaware, who once began a system of manuring and treatment of Cherry-trees, found, after an experience of a few years, that the bark would burst, gum would ooze out, and many portions of the tree show an unhealthy condition. The growers immediately discontinued high feeding, and seeded the land down to grass. The trees recovered their health, and have borne beautifully since the system of grass -culture began. It is the only fruit-tree of all varieties which we can safely recommend to be treated in this way. A Delaware friend says his row of Cherry-trees, growing in grass along the fences, are the picture of health and luxuriance ; while in previous years with orchard culture he could never make them successful. — Independent. From the vast establishment of the wealthy, to the tulip-bed of the florist, or the potato -patch of the cottager, there is in gardening a perpetual source of recreation, instruction and practical benefit WOODWARD'S GARDENS. The gardens are now in fine order, and appear to be attracting a large amount of attention from the holiday- keeping portion of the community. The conservatory and green and tropical houses are well deserving the inspec- tion of the scientific botanist, as well as the practical gardener and amateur. Gloxinias and Achimenes are abundant, in fine condition, and great variety. Be- gonias also are very attractive; we no- tice a very fine plant of Begonia odorata, which invites attention by its handsome appearance and rich perfume. Gloriosa superba, Aphelandra aiwantiaca, and A. Harefolia, Franciscea eximea, and Cero- pegia elegans (of which this is the only specimen on this coast), are some of the most interesting plants. There is also a very handsome specimen of Clcroden- dron BalfoiLviana profusely in bloom ; Phelia mimosa, or smoke plant, is curi- ous, and there are some fine varieties of Hibiscus. The Itex family of Begonias, Caladi- mus. Euphorbia splendens, Busseliajun- cea, Alutelan vexiliarium, and Agapanihus umbellala, are well represented. Slepha- nolus floribunda is in full bloom, as also Cactus spathiosa. The Colei family afford a magnificent contrast in their gorgeous tints. The Fuchsias and Salcias are also in great variety. Salvia patens (blue Salvia) exhibits an exceedingly pure and l.rilliant tint of that pleasing color. There are also several tine vari- eties of Orchids in bloom, while the splendid condition and rich assortment of this group is very gratifying, both to the amateur and professional gardener. The Cinchona Tree is quite extensively cultivated for Peruvian bark, in Bengal. It is a native of South America, and its introduction in California is recom- mended.— California Agriculturist. 186 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. FA.VORS RECEIVED. The Overland Monthly. — By favor of John H. Carmany & Co., the June number of this always welcome maga- zine is at hand. This is an excellent number. The " Comstock Lode," "Ca- lifornia Indians," and "Commercial and Monetary Interests of California," par- ticularly interest us. A Simple Floral Ornament. — A con- tributor to the Gardeners' Magazine says that a lady friend of his gathered a handful of the flowers of Forget-me- not, [Mijosoiis palustris), and, to preserve them as long a period as possible, they were put in a large soup-plate filled with rain - water. The flowers were placed near the window, so as to en- joy the advantages resulting from an abundance of light and air, and the water was replenished when needful. In about three weeks, white thread-like roots were emitted from the portion of the flower-stalks in the water, and they ultimately formed a thick net-work over the plate. The flowers remained quite fresh, except a few of the most advanc- ed when gathered, and, as soon as the roots began to run in the water, the buds began to expand — to take the place of those which faded; and up to the middle of November, the bouquet — if it may be so called — was a dense mass of flowers, and a more beautiful or chaste ornament for the indoor apart- ment can not be imagined. — Boston Journal of Chemistry. The "Walnut crop is quite an item in Los Angeles County, Cal., where more attention has been bestowed upon the propagation of the Walnut than in any other part of the State. Fifty thousand pounds of this year's crop have been sold at ten cents per pound. WOllK von THE MONTH. BY F. A. MILLEB. The spring of 1873 has been unusu- ally unfavorable to all kinds of garden- ing, both in and out of doors. We have had no late rains, and the soil had become very dry as early as May 15th. This lack of moisture has been attended by heavy and cold winds, which pre- vailed during the greater part of May, retarding the development of all kinds ef vegetation, as well as the maturing of the spring crops in general. Notwithstanding all these unfavora- ble circumstances, the grain fields, the vineyards, and the orchards at present promise a fair average croj) ; which, however, may be a disappointment to many, who, at the earlier part of the season, had every reason to expect a most abundant crop of fruits as well as of cereals. However, things in general might be much worse than they are, and therefore we see no sufficient cause for grumbling. What we consider here unfavorable weather did not deprive us of our usual abundance of Strawber- ries, CheiTies, and other fruits and veg- etables, of very fair quality; and this is a strong argument in favor of the immi- gration to California, which is steadily increasing. All that California wants to make it the most prosperous land upon the globe, is a thorough system of irriga- tion where it is practicable. Wherever the waters of our lakes and rivers can be made available for this purpose, it should be done. Where the work is too heavy for individuals, the State and Congress should aid all legitimate and bona fide enterprises, which may seek to accomplish the desired object. Vineyards and orchards should be thoroughly examined. Mildew, if per- mitted to spread in the vineyard, will THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 187 do much damage. An excellent remedy is an application of sulphur, wherever any traces of mildew appear. In the orchard various insects are apt to do harm, and if they can be destroyed be- fore overrunning your trees, you may save yourself much labor and annoy- ance. This is an excellent time for the prop- agation of all kinds of soft -wooded flowering plants, such as Geraniums, Fuchsias, Heliotropes, Pelargoniums, Petunias, Verbenas, Begonias, etc.; al- so for the propagation of Pinks and Carnations. All cuttings should be well shaded during bright days. The sand in which you intend to plant your cuttings should be well saturated with water before planting, so that you may not be com- pelled to water soon afterward. The grand secret, in California, in the treat- ment of all tender seeds and cuttings, is to water sparingly. If they are placed close under glass, well shaded, and with a moderate bottom heat of fresh ma- nure and tan, sufficient moisture will be condensed continually to make wa- tering unnecessary, until the cuttings are rooted, or the seedlings well ad- vanced. ♦ California Chestnuts. — The Oakland Transcript gives an account of a speci- men Chestnut taken from a tree grow- ing in the foot-hills of the San Pablo Range. The Petaluma Argus states that in the forests in the northern part of this county and in Mendocino, there are a considerable number of Chestnut- trees, some of them being from four to six feet in diameter, and from one hun- dred to one hundred and fifty feet in height. If the Chestnut is indigenous to this climate, California ought not to import the nut from the East at a high fiijjure. KEPORT ON THE FRUIT MARKET. BY E. J. HOOPEB. It is all very well to talk of fruits as the gift of nature; as being such exceed- ingly wholesome diet, and all that sort of thing. Fruits, people say, be- ing provided for man's refi-eshment and health, can not possibly be injurious. But, we think, these people ought to define what they mean by the benefits to be derived from the use of fruit, what sort of fruit, and in what condi- tion it should be when eaten. If it be the matured and perfect product of a tree or shrub, in which the saccharine element is freely evolved and distributed with plenty of good juicy matter through the pulp, which has itself lost its early tenacity — in other words if it be ripe fruit they mean — we see no objection, to a liberal consumption of it. But if they call early, rather solid, and nearly green Apricots or Cherries, early green Ap- ples and Peai's, little shriveled taste- less Peaches, Water-melons almost with- out a particle of sweet juice in them, and Plums as hard as bullets, fit oflferings at the shrine of Pomona, and suitable food for either a rustic or a civic popu- lation, then we wish, if it were in our power, to condemn these sellers of and dealers in this immature and injuri- ous diet, to eat what they offer and recommend to a credulous and confiding public. In fact, no kind of fruit should be gathered from the trees until it is either quite ripe — or, in some varieties, till it is in such condition, that it will attain the desirable maturity within a certain time after gathering, becoming, thereby, suitable in its wholesomeness for assim- ilation in the human system. If dealers are willing to sacrifice the health and well-being of their customers for sor- did and "filthy lucre," the buyers them- 188 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUIIIST. selves must be instructed by those best informed and most expeiienced in the subject, not to risk their own health, as well as that of their families, by buy- ing this unripe and destructive trash, called fruit. If Strawberries were not among the most beneficial fruits in the world, un- doubtedly the veiy unripe condition in which they are at first brought to mar- ket, to collect the plenteous dimes of the wealthy, would be productive of great mischief ; but there is such an in- herent healthfulness in this berrj', even in its immature or half-ripe condition, that the injurj' to the consumers of it is really very small. [Qy? Ed.] Not so, however, with other fruits. Parents should beware of the trouble and sick- ness they may inflict on themselves and children by their use in an unripe state. The public taste for fruit has for ten years past, in this State, increased at a far greater ratio than the supply has in- creased. The idea is prevalent, and with good reason, that the use of fruit is one of the most certain conducives of health , as well as one of the greatest luxu- uries. No one who would like to engage judiciously in its culture, need have any fear that the market will be glutted by the time his trees may come into full bearing condition. In the production of Strawberries, Blackberries, Melons, Grapes, Peaches, and Pears, we beat the whole world ; not so much in quality, as in the quan- tity we produce. The amount that is sold here would appear almost incred- ible, and what we shall soon be able to send abroad will astonish even our- selves. There is abundant encouragement to plant every kind of fruit excej)t Goose- berries and Raspbenies, which, at pres- ent, will warrant only a limited culture; but there are other sorts sufficient to afford a rich supply of fresh fruit for the whole season, until winter intervenes and rests the exhausted energies of Na- ture. Cherries first ajipeared in market about the 12th of April. They came from that early producing region in and around Pleasant Valley, in Yolo County. Along the moderately elevated foot-hills the severe and late frosts in Apiil did but little damage to vegetation and ear- ly fruit blossoms. It is in the lower grounds, where the dampness lingers longest, that the most injui'y ensues to the various crops and unfolding buds. Strawberries, although rather later than usual this year, have been, and still are, abundant and cheap. The cool weather which has remained with us so long this spring, is conducive to the production of large crops of our favorite berry. Longworth's Prolific is always worthy of its name, but especial- ly so this season. No other kind as yet is able to compete with it in hardiness, productiveness, and flavor, combined. Its irregularity of shape is but of small consideration, and its color, although not so bright as some others, is rich and tempting in appearance. The writer well remembers its origin, and firsst ap- pearance in Cincinnati, ia 1843. Being an hermaphrodite, it was deemed ex- tremely valuable among so many merely staminates and pistillates, and soon rose very high in public favor. Green Goosebemes showed them- selves on the stalls on the 1st of May. What a pit}' it is that we can not en- tirely overcome the mildew in the Eng- lish Gooseberiy; although we hope this year to be able to record some success in its prevention by a zealous cultivator of fruits in Napa Valley. Cherries (10th May) do not make any great displaj' as yet, but before this re- port is printed, supplies will be very THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTUIIIST. 189 liLeral. This is a profitable fruit to cul- tivate in this climate, as we have not here the heavy and long rains which sometimes rot it in the East. California Lemons are not abundant, but the Sicily variety has lately well made up for this. Cargoes of Tahiti Oranges keep arriving, and further ship- ments from Los Angeles are being con- tinually received. Chestnuts have disappeared entirely for the season. The initial consignment of any large quantity of Gooseberries to our fruit market arrived about the 12th of May. Apples and Pears nearly disajppeared on the 15th of May. Currants were seen first in market on the 18th of May. Apricots were first offei'ed to the pub- lic on the 19th of May. The fia'st California- grown Tomatoes made their appearance on the 16th of May, though in limited quantities. Egg- plants and Okra on the 20th of May. Cure for Rheumatism. — One of the latest fashions in physic — though we are not aware that it is recognized by the faculty — is the use, by the Belgians, of the Plectranthus fridicosus for rheu- matism. All that is required, it seems, is to grow the plant in the room inhab- ited by the sufi"erer. As the plant is so very commonly grown in cottage win- dows in England under the name of the Nettle Geranium (being, however, neither a nettle nor a Geranium) it might have been thought that its virt- ues, if it has any, would long since have been discovered here, and that rheumatism would be non-existent in English cottages enlivened by this plant. We are sceptical on the point, but really have no definite reasons for our unbelief. — Gardener's Chronicle. Vol. III.— 25. (grtitanal ^I^aniuois. NEGLECTED PLANTS. There are few plants of greater beau- ty as decorative specimens, when well cultivated, than is the Humea elegans, for this plant, well grown, forms one of the finest ornaments to the flower gar- den; its rich and unique perfume being also wafted by every breeze that blows. At the same time, if poorly cultivated, it is but a weedy, inferior plant. The Humea elegans is, however, easy of cult- ure, so that there is nothing Avhatever to hinder it being generally cultivated in Victorian gardens. When placed upon terraces, or in groups of three or five at the termination of walks, the Hu- mea gives a marked and peculiar char- acter to ornamental grounds, and an aristocratic expression to the whole. Such plants as Liliums, Fuchsias, Hy- drangeas, and Gladioli are admirably adaj)ted as associates of the Humea ele- gans. It is a Chinese plant, and is named after Sir A. Hume. It is also a biennial, and therefore it is necessary to cultivate it thoroughly in order to bloom it the first season. In England it is frequently grown ten feet in height, and perfectly bushy, covering some eight feet in diameter at the base, and when well in bloom exactly resembling a fountain in full play, the blossoms be- ing a lovely auburn color, moving with every breath of wind, and at the same time giving off a very agreeable and aromatic odor, at once refreshing and uncommon. As regards the cultivation of the Hu- mea elegans, it is best, in the first place, to secure a little seed, which can be sown at this season of the year in pots or boxes, the soil most suitable being a sandy loam. If a frame or greenhouse is available, so much the better, for the 190 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. pots or boxes can be placed therein. When the young phmts have come up well, they should be pricked out into separate flower-pots, only one in each; and as they afterward require it, into larger size; or they may be planted out of doors where they are to permanently remain directly they have attained to nice sturdy little plants, when their growth will be very rapid. But do not crowd them too much round Avith other ]ilants at first, for they require plenty of air and space, forming their roots only slowly. If they are wanted for ornamental vases, the}' should be gradually potted into larger pots, as they need it, until they are finally placed in the vases, for they do not like moving when once planted out in the open ground. When first planted out, a slight shading may be found necessary', such as a few boughs stuck round them, gradually inuring them to the powerful rays of the sun. If they are thus man- aged, they will, in some six or eight months after the seed is sown, form handsome plants, and the cultivator who grows them will never regret the time and attention devoted to them. The sprays of blossoms cut fi*om the plants and placed among cut flowers are great additions, particularly to nice- ly arranged epergnes for the drawing- room or dining table. The Hamea ele- gans has so far been an almost totally neglected plant in our Victorian gar- dens, and we are convinced that it is chiefly from the want of knowledge of its great beauty that it has not been made a first favorite. We trust, there- fore, that some of our energetic ama- teurs will try this elegant plant, for we are sure that, when once seen well done, it will quickly become rescued from ap- parent obscurit3^ — Melbourne Times. THE LAUGHING PLANT. We are apt to believe what we wish. Palgrave's work on Central and East- ern Arabia furnishes something new for botanists. A plant is described under the name of Laughing Plant, the seeds of which produce effects very much like laughing gas. It grows solely in Ara- , bia, attaining a height of only about six inches at Kaseem, while at Oman it rises to three or four feet, with wide- spreading branches, being woody and the leaves green. Its flowers, in tufts, are yellow. Two or three black seeds, much like French Beans in size and shape, are jDroduced in a soft woolly kind of capsule. They have a sweetish taste with a slight flavor of opium. The odor from them is rather offensive, producing a sickening sensation. The essential property of this extraordinary plant is in the seed, which, pulverized and ad- ministered cautiously, soon begins to operate in a way to create astonishment. The person begins to laugh boisterous- ly; then he dances, sings, and cuts fan- tastic capers of a ludicrous character. Such extravagance of manner was never witnessed from any other dosing. It is uproariously funny for about an hour. It is a common amusement to charge food with the powder for an unsuspect- ing individual, for the harmless enjoy- ment of his capering antics. When the excitement subsides, the exhausted ex- hibitor falls into a profound slumber. In another hour, on awakening, he is totally unconscious of Avhat has occur- red. It is a common expression that there is nothing new under the sun. Surel}^ to men of science this is some- thing new, which demands the care- ful investigation of such extraordinary properties of a vegetable growth that exercises such potent influence over the brain. For it is morally certain that this recently discovered Laughing Plant, so extraordinary in its potent influence THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTUKIST. 191 on the human brain, is something new to science, demanding' the attention of dispensatory makers, as well as those professors of materia medica who are supposed to know all that is to be known of plants, from the Cedars of Lebanon to the Hyssop that springeth out of the wall. — American Artisan. REFUSE OF TANNERIES. Wm. S. Eand, of Lewis County, Ky., writing to the Gounfry Gentleman, says: "I was interested in a large tannery, located in a barren and light, sandy, white soil, destitute of any fertilizing principles. Upon and over this aban- doned surface the waste of tan-bark, hair, lime, glue, scraps, and liquor or I'e- f use water, were carried promiscuously. After the first year, seeds and grain of all descriptions voluntarily grew. My father, residing on these premises, who is a practical horticulturist, observed this demonstration of tannery refuse, and put it to practical use over a tract of about three hundred acres, as cir- cumstances required. In a white, tena- cious clay and sand soil he used the hair and lime to raise Potatoes, both Irish and Sweet. The returns exceeded all expectation, and a comparatively worthless soil is now a rich, productive potato ground. The hair is slow to de- compose, but lightens and invigorates the earth. Rotten tan-bark is destitute of many fertilizing principles, but the experiment teaches that it is sustaining to Clover, as clover-seed will germinate and keep green in tan-bark longer than in any other manure. " Hide - scraps, scrapings, leather- shavings — all which ai-e animal sub- stances — decompose, by which the necessary gases are generated and im- parted to the inquisitive rootlets. Es- pecially when mixed with barn -yard manure or compost heaps, this makes a I'ich and valuable fertilizer, excelling most of the manufactured stuff now on the market as more productive. "The liquid waste of tanneries con- tains more fertilizing princii:)les than all others named, yet it is run off; but wherever it does penetrate and serve the soil, mark the increase. "The refuse water of the lime-vats, with equal parts of the tan liquor, is not to be excelled as liquid manure. In addition, sprinkle it over vines and Cabbages, and wash the bark of fruit- trees with it — worms and insects will disappear. It is safe on flowers — indeed there is no waste of tanneries, if properly applied. My father converted a desert into a charming, useful, and profitable soil — made the wilderness a beautiful home — and the chief agency was the use of the refuse of the tannery. " Not a vestige of the tannery building remains — the. fire-fiend destroyed all — but where it stood, and where the branches leading the liquor flowed, the surface that received the waste of the tannery is rich in producing qualities, and the luxuriant growth of every seed that falls upon this once barren soil tells of the transcendent value of the tan- nei-y waste and refuse. It will restore any land to productiveness, and prove a useful and paying investment to ap- ply it. Blood Globules. — The number of blood globules is greater in mammifers than in birds, in the latter than in fishes. The number is almost always in an inverse ratio to the volume of the globules; the relation between number and volume is not proj)ortional. Birds gain more by the augmentation of the volume of their blood globules than they lose by the diminution in their number. 192 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Sheep in Vineyauds. — Sheep seem to Lave a strong autii^athj for or a love of weeds; it matters to the farmer but very little which, so that they destroy almost every pestiferous weed they find grow- ing withiu their range; leaf, seed-pod, the small limbs of all weeds, large or small, are alike to them, and by them are converted more quickly than by any other practicable process into one of the most fertilizing manures known to farmers. Sheep fed with dry food, in winter, always prefer a leafy hay, full of the leaves of weeds, vines and clover, to one of long straight stalks, as of timothy or red-top, however nutritious the latter may be for larger animals. Farmers would do w ell to take advan- tage of this weed- destroying propensity in sheep, to clear their land, cultivated or uncultivated, of noxious weeds. We are not careful enough to extirpate weeds before they go to seed, and par- ticularly in unplowed and unpastured fields. Hence, new seeds are ripened and annually are self -grown broad- cast over other portions of our farms; and particularly is this the case with very many vineyard lands. Large rank weeds are often seen peering even above the Grape-vines in many places. Now there is no more effectual way of de- stroying the weeds, large and small, in these same vineyards, than by turning in droves of sheep immediately after the vintage; and if you have not got them of your own, borrow a flock of your neighbor who has, and turn them in. When they have destroyed every weed and bunch of wild grass, they will feast uj)on the drying leaves of the vines, and the smaller and weaker shoots, but with not the least injury to the vine as re- gards grape -producing another year, and will leave a considerable quantity of manure just where you want it. — S. F. liaral Press. Is POULTKY - KEEPING PnOFITABLE ? Upon this subject the Weslerii Rural makes the following just and sensible remarks, giving some cogent reasons why poultry should be kept upon the farm, and as to the profits arising there- from : "For several years poultry have been very profitable, eggs and chickens commanding a high price. By a little attention to their breeding and manage- ment, poultry may be made very valu- able to the farmer in many waj's, one of the most important being the excellent manure they make. A comfortable, frost-proof poultry- house should be con- structed in such a position that the hens will have access to the orchard, for they are exceedingly useful for destroying the curculio, the apple-worm, and other hurtful insects. Plum-trees in a poul- try yard generally yield an abundant crop of fruit, perfectly free from the at- tacks of the curculio. The best breed of fowls are alwaj's the most profitable; but even these should not be kept more than two or three years. Old hens should be got rid of, and 3'oung and vigorous pullets put in their j^laces. The floor of the poultry-house should be covered with wood-ashes, dry muck, or old sawdust, for the purpose of ab- sorbing the droppings of the fowls, and preventing an offensive smell. The house should be cleaned out frequently and the manure kept in a shed, or in large casks or boxes, until required for use in spring; its effect on field or gar- den crops is remarkable." Tea of Great Value. — The greatest dainty that the palate of a Chinese craves is /an vhow, the flower of tea. A Chronicle man had an opportunity a short time ago to sip the imiDerial tea bloom, the priceless beverage of Celes- tial extravagance. Learning that the THE CiJilFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 193 enterprising' firm of Castle Brothers, 213 and 215 Front Street, bad samples of a very rare tea, he visited the count- ing-room of that firm, was shown the samples, and directed to Tuck Chong & Co., Chinese wholesale merchants, for information. Tuck Choug, an urbane Chinese, received the reporter kindly, listened to his request to be shown the impei'ial leaf, and brought in the price- less luxury in a small and highly orna- mented box of sandal-wood. The slide lid w^as pulled out, and six alternate layers of perfumed rice paper and silk were carefully lifted. Beneath all this covering was a gilded, square piece of sandal-wood. This also was lifted and the tea blossom was dis- played. Rolled into balls, twisted into tiny, flame-shaped rolls an inch long, twisted very small, tied in little bunches like cigarettes at one end, and whipped into shreds at the other, was the tea flower, packed into loose petals of its own kind to preserve its fragrance. "This," said Tuck Chong, "is a tea that only man- darins of highest rank ever get a chance to drink in China. It is grown on the plantation of a very rich mandarin in the province of Foo Chow, and can only be gotten from him or his agent in Pekin. There was once a law forbid- ding its export, bat even an American can now buy and drink it. It cost $16^^ in China. My brother brought back a few pounds on his last visit to China. I have none for sale, but it could not be sold in San Francisco for less than §20 a pound." Virtues of Borax. — It may not be generally known how very valuable borax is in various purposes of house- hold use. We find it the very best cockroach exterminator yet discovered. One-half pound, costing but fifty cents, has completely cleared a large house formerly swarming with them, so that the appearance of one a month is quite a novelty. The vai'ious exterminating powders pufied and advertised have been found not fully effective, tending rather to make the roaches crazy than to kill. There is something peculiar, either in the smell or touch of borax, which is certain death to them. They will flee in terror from it, and never ap- pear again where it once has been plac- ed. It is also valuable for laundry pur- poses. The washerwomen of Holland and Belgium, so proverbially clean, and who get their linen so beautifully white, use refined borax instead of soda, in the proportion of a large handful of borax powder to ten gallons of water. They save soap nearly one - half. All the large washing establishments adopt the same mode. For laces, cambrics, etc., an extra quantity of powder is used; and for crinolines (requiring to be made stiff) a stronger solution is necessary. Borax, being a neutral salt, does not in the slightest degree injure the texture of linen. Its effect is to soften the hardest water, and therefore it should be kept on the toilet table. As a wa}' of cleaning the hair nothing is better than a solution of borax in water. It leaves the scalp in a most cleanly condition, and the hair is just sufiiciently stiffened to retain its place. This stiffness, however, can be readily removed, if objectionable, by washing with water. Zinc Labels. — In nurseries and hor- ticultural establishments generally it is necessary to attach labels to the difl'er- ent specimens, and when these are ex- posed to the w-eather the writing on the label becomes illegible in a few years, and if care is not taken to renew it, the inscription wdll be lost. These labels are commonly made of wood, and the 194 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. inscription put on with a plumbago pencil. Sheet -zinc cut into any con- venient form, and attached either by a blender point cut to the label, or by a fine copjjerwire, is the best material for labels. A special ink for the inscrip- tion may be made by taking one part each of acetate of copper and chloride of ammonium, and half a part of lamp- black, and mix these with ten parts of water. Keep it in a glass bottle with a ground-glass stopper. Shake well be- fore using, and write with a coarse steel pen. The writing will resist the action of the weather for years. — Monthhj Re- port of Department of Agriculture. Growing Tomatoes from Cuttings. — A correspondent of the Western Rural says: Sometime since, it occurred to me that Tomatoes might be grown from cuttings of the bearing vine, in the fall, and wintered in greenhouses in a bear- ing condition. Accordingly, I made sev- eral cuttings and potted them in four inch pots, when well rooted, and have since continued them in a bearing con- dition. They are now in fruit. The object in view is to have early bearing plants for spring, by the time they can go out of doors, instead of waiting for seedlings to acquire sufficient age to produce fruit. The experiment thus far is a success. The plants are strong and thrifty, and more stocky than when grown from seed. They are disposed to branch at the axil of each leaf, and need pruning and cutting back. No plant roots easier from cuttings than the Tomato. The Osage Orange. — The Madura aurantica has become a familiar shrub in most parts of the United States, from its general use as a hedge-plant ; but it is now proposed to utilize the Osage Orange for other purposes. A decoction of the wood is said to yield a beautiful and very permanent yellow dye, and this decoction, carefully evap- orated, forms a bright yellow extract called aurantine, which may be used in imj^arting its color to fabrics. In addi- tion to this coloring matter, the wood of the Osage Orange is rich in tannin. Experiments made in Texas represent that hides are tanned quicker with the wood of this tree than with oak bark. The seeds yield a bland, limpid oil, resembling olive-oil, and which may, in ereneral use, be substituted for it. Discoveky in Horticulture. — On the authority of a translation from a French journal, an exchange announces the discoverj^ that by watering vegetables and fruit-trees with a solution of the sulphate of iron (copperas), the most as- tonishing results are obtained. Applied to gi'owing Beans, they gained sixty per cent, on their ordinary size, while the flavor was much improved. Fruit-trees were greatly benefited by watering with this solution, the Pear-tree esj^ecially being improved in thriftiness of growth and productiveness. If our gardeners and fruit-growers desire to make experi- ments in this direction, they can be made very cheai:)ly, as copperas can be purchased at wholesale at about three cents per pound. We have in the Gardeners' Chronicle a remarkable instance of the luminosity of fungi. The spawn of some unknown species of fungus, growing on a trunk of Spruce or Larch, was found to give a perfect blaze of white light along the track where the trunk had been drag- ged. The light was enough to read the face of a watch, and it continued for three days. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 195 Flokal and Vegetable Essences for Perfume. — Nearly all the essences em- ployed in perfumery are of European production ; and yet, there are men in obscure places in the United States who have made modest fortunes producing these essences. It will come to pass that we shall pay more attention to such productions, when we learn that there is profit in something else besides vegetables, fruits and grains. This is the way the manufacture of these essences is distributed in Europe : England produces Lavender and Pepper- mint largely. At Nismes, attention is given to Rosemary , Thyme and Lavender. Cannes extracts the essence of the Rose, the yellow Acacia, the Jasmine, and Neroli. Sicily furnishes Citron and Orange ; Italy, Iris and Bergamot. — Rural New Yorker. VAxrE OF Barn- YARD Manure. — The tobacco growers of the Connecticut Valley are beginning to learn the value of barn-yard manure. Instead of pay- ing fifty cents per load, as was former- ly the rate, these farmers are now glad to pay ten to twelve dollars per cord. In consequence of the demand, large quantities of stable-manure are shipped thither from the States surrounding Connecticut. If every farmer knew the worth of stable-manure, he would see that his own farm would pay him higher prices for it than could be afforded by the owner of any other farm. " A hint to the wise is sufficient." A Simple Deodorizer. — One pound of green copperas, costing seven cents, dissolved in one quart of water, and poured down a water-closet, will effect- ually concentrate and destroy the foul- est smells. On board ships and steam- boats, about hotels and other public places, there is nothing so nice to puri- fy the air. Simple green copperas dis- solved under the bed, in anything that will hold water, will render a hospital or other place for the sick, free from unpleasant smells. For butchers' stalls, fish -markets, slaughter-houses, sinks, and wherever there are offensive putrid gasses, dissolve copperas and sprinkle it about, and in a few days the smell will pass away. — Rural Carolinian. From an exhaustive annual trade re- view, printed in the San Francisco Commercial Herald, of January 17th, it appears that the Wheat - crop of Cali- fornia in 1872 was 25,000,000 bushels; that the "Wheat and Flour exjDorts were 7,000,000 centals ; that the gold and silver yield of States and Territories Avas $80,000,000; that the coinage at the Branch Mint at San Francisco was §16,380,000 ; that the foreign import values at the port were $40,000,000, and the export value by sea $21,000,000; that the Wool clip was 25,000,000 lbs , and that the Wine product was 4,000,- 000 gallons. Make your Trees Branch Low. — Train your Pear-trees for garden or field use that they will branch at a distance of one or two feet from the ground. The advantages are easily enumerated : 1. It is easy to trim. 2. It is easy to gather the fruit. 3. Falling fruit is little injured. 4. All branches being sturdy will not be strained by over -bearing or over- weight of fruit. 5. Soil will be kept shady and moist. 6. The trunk will be protected from the scorching sun. 7. The tree will grow more and more beautiful. — Horticulturist. « 190 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Snufk for Gkeen Fly. — Gardeners ■who have tried snuflf to kill the green fly, or a])his, on house-plants, say that it works well if properly applied. The plants should either be dipped in water or thoroughly wetted in some other manner, then the snuff may be blown upon the plants through a pipe-tube, sulphur -bellows, or in any way to have it reach every portion of the stems and leaves. Of course, the snuff must be very dry, and the following day wash it off with a syringe, or by again dipjDing the plants. — Rural New Yorker, Roses in England. — An English jour- nal says: Few persons are aware of the magnitude to which the Rose may be grown, or the sj^l^ndid effect it can be made to produce on a lawn or pleasure- ground ; yet with a sufficiently strong stem, and a system of careful and pa- tient training, there can be no reason- able doubt but that the standard Roses can be grown to the size and form of the Weeping Ash, having the branches all produced from the top of a single stem, and flowing downward upon all sides — a very ornamental object for the lawn. Aphides or Green Fly. — To destroy these pests, boil an ounce of quassia for ten minutes in one quart of water; then add soft or whale-oil soap, about the quantity of a small hen's gqq, apply this to the infested plants, and the de- struction of the Aphides will be certain. It will not injure the plants. At a local meeting in New England, one speaker said he considered the val- ue of his farm enhanced $1,000, in con- sequence of the attractiveness given to it by five Elm-lreen, planted along the roadside by his grandfather 85 years agfo. The Food Journal draws attention to the wasteful system of peeling potatoes before cooking. In most cases they cook better in their "jackets." The skins are much more easily removed after cooking, and where the consump- tion is considerable the saving would be worth regarding. It may be profitable to those having turkeys in their yard, to know that pul- verized charcoal mixed with meal and potatoes, will fatten those birds in a wonderfully short space of time. — Southern Agriculturist. Ten cubic yards of meadow hay weigh a ton. When hay is taken out of an old stack, eight or nine yards make a ton. Eleven or twelve cubic yards of clover, when dried, weigh a ton. METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, Fob thk Month, April 28th to Ma-x 28th, 1873. (Prepared for The Horticulturist by Thos, Tennent, Chronometer and Instrument - maker, Battery Street, opposite the Custom-house.) BAIiOMETEB. Mean height at 9 a.m 30.06 in. do 12m 30.06 do 3P.M 30.05 do 6P.M 30.04 Greatest height, on April 29th at 9 a.m 30. 2C Least height, on May ICthat 6p.h. 29.93 THERMOMETER. [In tht shade and free from reflected heat.) Mean height at 9 a.m 56° do 12m ei-" do 3P.M 61° do 6P.M 57= Greatest height, on the 7th at 12 m 72^ Least height, on the 14th at 9 a.m 51° SELF - REGISTERING THERMOMETER. Mean height during the night 40^ G^eate^t height, on night df 8th 44'^ Least height, on night of 21st 36° WINDS. North and North-west on 10 days ; South and South-cast on 2 days; Southwest on 5 days; Weston 14 days. nAIN GUAGE. April 28th 0.09 inches. May 14th 0. 01 Total 0.10 inches. Total rain of the season up to date 17.94 " WEATHER. Clear on 20 days; variable on 8 days; cloudy and fogm- on 1 days I I c 5 W S" ■-''^,'/ V ""iiiJii ■ A P v^-n' M\) -)().itl 9 i9 99 OT t9 E9 E9 19 09 GS 8S i5 9E SS frS £? ES ly OCBt 3 THE AND FLORAL MAGAZINE. Vol. til JULY, 1873. No. 7. CULTUKE OF HOUSE -PLANTS. BY F. A. MILLEE. [Continued from page 17, January number.] In IB}' last, I commenced the enumer- ation of a list of plants calculated to do well in the house under ordinary treat- ment. I headed the list with the popu- lar Chinese Primrose and the far-famed Cyclamen, and endeavored to show that many of the most desirable j)lants re- quire moisture in the atmosphere as well as about their roots; that the com- paratively dry air of the rooms Ave inhabit is not favorable to the growth of plants, and that this difficulty may be partly overcome by an occasional si^rinkling- or syringing of the foliage. If this can not be done in the room on account of the injury to carpets and furniture, let it be done in the porch on a pleasant day ; morning is the best time. Give fresh air whenever the weather is i:>leasant, and during very hot days screen the plants from the direct rays of the sun, which are too powerful through glass, unless it is lightly frosted or painted. There are many other points which should be eax'efully observed in the cul- tivation of house-plants, such as proper drainage, judicious watering, and the Vol. III.— 2G. application of some fertilizing agent. However, I shall have occasion to speak of these matters as we proceed in the enumeration of my list of plants. I can highly recommend the various varieties of Begonia for cultivation in the house; they have no superior. The foliage of some is most remarkable and brilliant, while others give a profusion of bright and graceful flowers at all sea- sons. There are a great number of va- rieties, all of which deserve a place in a collection, and every year new ones are added which generally prove' to be an improvement on some of the older ones. Of flowering Begonias, the nine best are: Begonia nitida, having flowers white and show3^ This is an old and well- known variety, nevertheless very desir- able and easy to cultivate; it requires a somewhat shady place, and is fond of moisture. It continually throws out young shoots from the roots, which will flower in a few weeks. This plant should not be allowed to run up higher than twelve to eig-hteen inches, when the shoots should be cut back to make room for the younger branches. To grow a fine specimen plant, it should be shifted into a one -size larger pot every six months. In two or three 198 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. years, the plant will have grown to such dimensions that it should be taken from the pot and divided. In doing this, it is v>ell to shake off all the earth and plant the divided portions in four -inch pots in new soil. Almost any kind of light soil, mixed with old manure, will answer the purpose. After dividing the old root, all the old shoots should be cut down, letting the 3'oung growth remain. It is also easily propagated by cuttings. Begonia pavvifolia is another very de- sirable plant for its foliage as well as for its white flowers, which are smaller than those of the former, but are pro- duced in still greater abundance during winter and summer. This variety should be grov>"u to the height of from nine to fifteen inches, and if frequently cut back it Avill form a dense mass of foliage and flowers. It should be shifted into a put one size larger at least once every year. It also grows readily from cut- tings, although much slower than nitida. Begonia semperflorens is a charming- variety, its bright red floAvers hanging in graceful masses from every branch, during every season of the year. This also is an old variety, but will always remain popular. Ordinary treatment suffices to develop its neat and elegant habit to perfection. Begonia Itghrida mullijlora is very dis- tinct from all the others; its flowers are of a delicate pink color, rather small, but produced in great profusion through- out the year. Its foliage is graceful, and its habits neat and compact. It should have a place in every collection. Begonia WeUoniensis is the queen of all the flowering Begonias, and of recent introduction. I do not know^ any plant which combines more good qualities. Its foliage is really exquisite, lai'ge and richly shaded; the stems of the stock and branches are of a beautiful reddish color; its habit is compact and pleasing, and the flowers, which it jDroduces in great abundance, are of a very delicate pinkish rose-color. It is a perfect gem, is of easy culture, propagates freely from cuttings, and is satisfied with any light and sandy soil, mixed with one- third old maniare. No one should be without it; it was introduced here last ^•ear, and young plants ma}' soon be had of our florists at moderate rates. Begonia odorata is a great improve- ment on the old varieties, on account of the delightful fragrance of its large and beautiful white flowers. It is of very recent introduction, but jilants may now be obtained in some of our floral estab- lishments. Its foliage is large and of a rich dark-gi*een color; its stem is aj^t to run up too high, and in order to groW' it in a bushy and more compact form, it should be pinched iia frequently. Every one should have it; its cultivation is not subject to any difficulties. Begonia BoUviensis is also of recent introduction ; it is remarkable for its very large and showy bell -shaped flow- ers of a rich scarlet color, and veiy graceful pendent form; it is tuberous- rooted; its habit is to grow well up; its foliage is light green, and contrasts well with other Begonias. It is a grand novelty, and very distinct from all the other varieties. During this spring it has flowered with us in great profusion, and is admired by every one. The plant should be allowed to rest during the winter -season, and be kept in a rather dry condition; it does not require large pots. But very few plants are cultivated here, as it is difficult to import it in good condition. Certainly, it is a most desirable acquisition from Bolivia, its native country. Begonia Verschaffeltii is one of the very best; itw^as introduced about three years since, but is not yet cultivated to THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTrRIST. 109 a great extent, as it propagates rather slowly. It throws U}) immense flower- stalks well above its elegant foliage, to the height of two to four feet, produc- ing a brilliant mass of flowers of pinkish color, and remains in bloom for a long- time. It is one of the most effective flowering Begonias. An abundance of flower-spikes are produced in succession during spring and summer. I shall close my list of the most de- sirable flowering Begonias with the Begonia smaragdina, which, although an old variety, deserves the attention of every amateur. It blooms with us freely during the winter months, and its flow- ers, which are produced in the style of those of B. Verscliafelfii, are of much more gi'aceful and dwarfish nature, and of a very delicate light pink color. Its foliage is most remarkable, a.nd answers the purpose of an ornamental foliage Begonia; leaves of a light green, mar- bled with dark green. It is one of the easiest to cultivate, but does not seem to thrive well in the shade. It should be watered sparingly until it is ready to bloom, when water should be applied more liberally. The collection of Begonias named and described above will give the full- est satisfaction to every one who wishes to cultivate the very best class of house- plants. They should be in every house. [To be continued.] FRUIT-GROWING— ALDEN PROCESS OF PRESERVATION OF FRUITS. BY E. J. HOOPER. Enots on Plum -Trees. — A corres- pondent of the American Institute Far- mei-'s Club says that for removing knots from Plum-trees, he takes a paint-brush, dips it in spirits of turpentine, and thoroughly saturates the knot, being careful not to touch the tree except in the diseased parts. The turpentine kills the excrescence ; the tree puts on healthy branches below it. He burns all branches of diseased trees removed in pruning. The cultivation of all those kinds of hardy fruits that we have already suc- cessfully acclimatized in California, and of probably a great many more of ten- der, semi-tropical, and even tropical habits that may yet be adapted to our highly favored State (some of these latter have already become profitable in the warmer parts of the country), is not only an enterprise of great monej- value, but also very important and valuable in a social, economical, and hygienic point of view. However cheaply one countiy may be supplied from others with fruits, whether in their fresh and natural state, or canned, dried, or by the lately dis- covered Alden process (which seems to prepare them next best to the fresh or canned), it can never become a general consumer of this healthy diet, unless it is raised within its own limits, and im- mediately at hand. The consumption of fruit has the effect of cheapening, of course, some other articles of food, and in the careful statistics of the North- western Dairymen's Convention, we find that ' ' fruit materially affected the con- sumption of cheese, meat, and bread." Fruit supplies a more agreeable, whole- some, and sanitary substance of food for man than some other articles. The many wild fruits, also, that have in the course of time been reclaimed from their natural condition, or improved, mark greatly advanced steps in human progress- and refinement. The advantages which California pos- sesses over the rest of the Union for the production of such almost numberless varieties, offers-the greatest encourage- ment to fruit - raising. In nearly all the other States the Peach is limited, the Pear has diseases, the Plum has too 200 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTrRIST. many insect pests, the Cherry too often rots and is injured by insects, and Grapes are expensive in their cultiva- tion, and are very limited in their vari- eties (the native only being hardy out- of-doors). The Apple is their most generally suitable fruit, and even that in many sections is very much defaced by a variety of insect enemies. Their severe winters and springs occasionally are very injurious, and too often also even destructive. But here in Califor- nia, there is no limit to fruit production, and fortunately so, when the processes of its successful preservation in several ways are taken into consideration. And this affords us an oj^j^ortunity to de- scribe the new "Alden " process, which seems most opportunely to present itself at the present time as a means for the profitable disposal of our surplus fruits, particularly when they are raised at an inconvenient distance from the markets. This method of drying fruits and vege- tables has been lately introduced into California at the village of San Loren- zo, Alameda County. The principle of ;desiccation is quite rapid, and ferment- ation is obviated by its being operated at a high temperature; the surrounding atmosphere must be moist. The fruit is placed on shelves or trays of gauze in an apartment whose temperature is not more than 210 deg., nor less than 160 deg. at the bottom, and 110 deg. at the top. The trays are gradually raised twenty or thirty feet in this chamber, and, within about seven hours after they have step by step reached the top, they are ready to be taken out. This reduces them about seventy per cent, in .weight, and they are ready for sale. The dampness maintained in the .chimney or chamber produces an excel- lent effect on the fruit, it being far su- jDcrior to that which is commonly dried in kilns or in the sun, and it sells more readily. This operation has been most successfully adopted in many places in the East, and is coming into general use there. The plan of preservation does not cause the fruits to shrink as in the com- mon processes, and when soaked in water, they come out into their original size, taste, and colors. It costs but half a cent per pound for the green fruit, and if this process is adopted here it will af- ford us as great and even greater advan- tages than any other fruit district in the world enjoys, when our wonderful re- sources and means for the production of so many various fruits which are adapted to our soil and climate are con- sidered. The Alden fruit occupies only one -fifth of the weight of the fresh fruit, and can be sent to market at only one -fifth of the cost. It will keep for years, and will enable fruit -farmers at great distances from the markets, to send their fruit thus preserved, at times best suited to their convenience. "We shall at any rate, ver}' shorth' see what success attends the San Lorenzo estab- lishment, and our fruit- cultivators will doubtless be guided accordingly. When these arts of preserving fruits, which are now in their infancy, shall become general, and so perfect that our surplus crops can be utilized, the ex- tent to which fruits and vegetables will be consumed will be on a scale surpass- ing all present conception. The antic- ipation that the market for abundantly'' producing kinds like ours will be over- stocked, must be met by ascertaining the districts and countries most needing them. Probably, as in the introduction of most im^jrovemeuts in every science, there will not be wanting jjarties who will raise the cry of humbug, and utter doleful jn-eachmeuts against patronizing novelties; but in this Alden process we THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 201 have au almost certain guarantee (from its success in the East) that with all our superior advantages in California for the purposes required, we are likely to witness something extraordinary in its effects in an economical, as well as pe- cuniary aspect. It would seem that in nothing do we more need to learn than in the proper handling and marketing of our fruits. Thousands of bushels of Grapes, Apri- cots, Pears, Apples, Peaches, andPlums, etc., are annually most wastefully fed to stock, or allowed to rot on the ground. Many more thousands have been shaken from the trees, tumbled into bags, bar- rels, or wooden boxes, and trotted over rough roads until their market value was reduced to barely the cost of this rough handling, and the owners are now doubtingly considering the ques- tion, Will fruit-growing pay? "Well, this Alden affair, it is to be hoped, if a paying result is reached and made pub- licly' known, will help to effect a benefi- cial change in our fruit interests in this State. We shall from time to time re- port progress with regard to it, and be able, probabh', to write something more about it in our August and September numbers. The Wheat cro^o of the country for last year is estimated by the Agricultural Bureau at 240,000,000 bushels more than for the preceding year, and the quality is also much better. The de- partment estimates the Indian Corn crop of the United States to be eight per cent, above the average. The yield of Oats is estimated to be not quite two hundred and sixty-five million bushels. Barley is reported as not likely to be less, but poorer than last year, and Rye two per cent, less in quantit}^ than last year, though generally good. AGAPANTHUS. BY F. A. MILLER. A highly valuable bulbous - rooted flowering plant, which has been culti- vated very successfully by most of our florists for a number of years. The treatment of the Agapanthus is very simple ; sandy loam mixed with one- fourth to one -third of old manure is an excellent soil for it. Although it is generally treated as a greenhouse plant, I 'have seen a profusion of flowers pro- duced upon plants in the open air, when partly sheltered from our heavy winds. We may, therefore, consider it a hardy plant in this neighborhood and all sim- ilar climates. The principal flowering season is in the summer, yet I have seen Agapanthus here in perfect bloom in De- cember and January. This is easily ac- complished: having several plants, one may be allowed to rest (by rest, I mean that no more water should be given than is positively necessary to keep the roots from drying up, and that the plant or root during that time should occupy a cool place in any out-of-the-way corner), while the others may be forced into vig- orous vegetation by a liberal supply of moisture and a warm exposure. If plants are cultivated in the open air, they will naturally flower during the early summer, which is our most favor- able season. The variety cultivated here is the A. umbellafus, undoubtedly the most de- sirable. Its flowers are of good size, and are produced in great numbers, upon a stalk from two to three feet high. Its foliage is also very decora- tive and generally admired. It is propagated by division of the roots, which operation should be per- formed immediately after its flowering period. * Natural Order LiUacece. 202 TilK CAMI'OKNTA HOUTK^Ul/nuaST. A viiii<'|,v I111.H Im'cii |ir()(Iiic('(| wliii'li 1:1 kiinwii nti A. iiitillijionis. II. in t.ni.l Hint, il. yicliln II. MTciiici' iiliiiiiv(U'iil llovvcr-HliillvHtliii- ili;;' I lir OCil.Mi'li. AlinUi(«r VMlicl.V, .1. illlihi'lldhlti (I'nl. ■ iir.)ci(>ii,l<'il (piili^ iinrHHiilion williiii 1Im» liifil. IrwycnrH, in lOiiinpo, willi it.4 liiiflv \ iii(';;'iil<'(l I'dliii;',!". NcillHT (•!' IIm'so viiricl.if'H Iiiih 3 •■!. I,,., Ml inliodiiccd lictv, lull. il. in It) li« lii)|H'il llui.1. IImv will uniiii iiinlvK llirir M|i|i('Mriinod (|ii,'dili<'H iiiiiKc il n moist ' li'.siriiMc iii'i|iii:iil inn. Tiii'iiK in 11 pliuit {^'ro\vin('('!' Iiin,";iii\" II lU'cHcnlH 11 Imiiii'Ii itr lull, of li;'lil. •^rccii 1oii,\mh>- hlmpt'd l('n\(»s, Hpriiif^iii^' iinmrdiiitrly I'lom llio ;froiiiid, llio IciivcH nu'iisiirin^f IVoiii six lo ('i';lil. iiiclicH ill l('ii;',ll\ tiiid nboni (inn inch in lircadlli. I'ldin llic (•(Milrc ol' lliis Imiicli III" IcMYcs hIiiiIh n|), 11.W llin ticiiHon ndvniifi'M, 11 Hlriii^lil, sliilK, risiii;'; lo liin li('i;;lil ol' from I w o lo I Iiit<> IV(>I, iind Iniiiiniiliii;'; in 11. (•oll(ii of l)ri;|lil |iiir|ilt> llowcrs. Tim loaves aro vorv rni'^ranl. wlim l>riii:u'd, Inn in;;- a Hl.ron;;' vanilla odor. "This lilllo |ilaiil. a {^rowlli prcnliar to llio lower Slal(>s is now," nayH llio Mobil,' /{lu/islcr, " allractiii;' no lill.lo at- ionlion as an arliclti for Hccnlin;^- l.obac- ro, and wrapptMH I'tu- lino cif-nrs. Mvon nl this lim(> il, is coinmandin^' a lii;.;li ]n'ic(> in llio marl<(>t; nnd as it lau-omcH Ix'llor Known, llio dcnituul for it will (loul»ll(\sH ho ;>rt*alor. \Voaro conlidonl, l.liat. the day is not. far distanl. w Ihmi il. will li-'uro as ono oH oiir mosl. iniptnt- ant. prodiiols; niul since il is (Mired lo (lu^ South, and can be ,e'rown lo perl'ccliiui upon (uir ]mor<\st I'iiic-himls, liie freiilj of ;;-ooil fort.uo whicli l»ron;;lit. it. into nolice \h likelyo jirovti a i^'ood freak to ns. " Ki\ Watku C'liiCHH. - Any farmer who ks a numin;^' ulream or a poml f is availalile, it nuiy lie cultivated wli prolil. II i.s an lupnitie perennial; ad where coiiiin;,' up spontaneously, on' sown, the moin once obtaining,' u fou hold, the plant, soon eovers (he Mirfivt of tlui water, and thereafter yields ii alinudant supply. It often brin;,'H froi $'^ to !?r) per bushel, or ^l per pim'i basketful. \\Iien the water is shallow, all thai iieeessary is to drop the H«'e«l into U> water in (he fall, and it will usiml^ j^row without further trouble; ov in tit sprin;,' tlie roots may be jilanted iliroo ly, at (he diHdmee of ono to two fei from each «)tlier. CroHH Ih unti-HCorbiT (ie and «'xceedin;.(ly a^r»«eab|e to tli taste, and is truly valuablo uk ono ( o>ir best sprin;^' salads. Tt is only ti) want of kiiowled^'o rela(in«,' to tho 1ml its and eiiltivution of this )daMt, ihv prevents its mor»« universal eultivutioi * Trout streaniH eNpeciidly are well iidapl eil to the «-ultivation of this plant, wine the water for raisin},' healthy trout mu; be pure, and pure water j>;iveH a pocul iarly ajjfreeable tlavor to the |)lant. 'I he seed is very tine, over 100,00 bein;j; contained to the mmee. Th< plant is supposed to hav(« been intro diierd iVoiii Miirojie, but has beeom natiirnli/ed ami wild in many j)orti()U of the llnit(>d Stat(>s. The sten» i.s f roD si\ to (>i;^liteon indues h)npf, aocordinj., to th(> depth of w.-iter in which it {^n'ows the l(>aves bein;^'' borne alon^' tho stems bolli the le.'ives and s(<»m8 aro uaod foi e.ilin^'.- ir,>/(T/i Hiinil. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 203 WEEDS. We have been favored by Professor D. C. Oilman, President of the Univer- sity of California, with a copy of a "Lecture on Weeds," by Prof. Wm. H. Brewer, Botanist of the California Geolog'ical Survey, and we have found it so interesting that we have deemed it advisable to lay before our readers the following extracts from it: "Farmers and gardeners usually ap- ply theterm, weed, to nny smallplant grow- ing ivhere it is not ivanfed. Commonly they are troublesome, some by choking out better ones, of which you all know familiar examples ; some by having noxious qualities, as Wild Onion; some because unsightly, as Ragweed; some because of thorns or prickles, as the Thistle; some by interfering with tillage or farm operations, as Hardhack ; some because of burs, as Burdock; some be- cause of spoiling the temper, as Furs- lane is claimed to do by our Hartford friends — in short, they are troublesome in a variety of ways, and yet onl}- trul}- troublesome when they are hiu'd to eradicate, or rather, hard to keep down in numbers. I shall show that the act- ual eradication of weeds, although often talked of is very seldom done. "It is usually their numbers that makes them injurious, and they multi- ply in a variety of ways. Some by seeds, some by roots, some by shoots, some by runners, some by all these methods, and every combination of them. Those that die after shedding their sin- gle crop of seed, mostly increase bj' seed, but the perennial ones in a vari- ety of ways. "The troublesome weeds of one lo- cality are not those of another. I am not familiar with the comparative worth- lessness or annoyances of Connecticut weeds, so I shall devote myself mostly to general facts. "All weeds are local in their trouble- someness; those most annoying in one locality are not much of a jDCst in an- other region. To be troublesome, they must be peculiarly well fitted for both the soil and climate, and as before said, must have strong powers of multiply- ing. Some years ago, in a neighboring State, I made observations for several 3'ears on the numbers of seeds produced by some of tlie most common weeds. I found individual plants of the May weed [Marala Cotula) producing 30,000 seeds, while near such luxuriant plants Avere others so dwarfed that they would ripen less than a dozen, so wide were its powei's. When starved, it would ripen its few seeds on a very small l^lant, but each of these seeds, if it fell on good ground could the next year produce its thousands. The Ox-e^ye Daisy (Leucaidhemian vulgare), from 100 to 10,000 from a single root. Canada Thistle (Cirsium arvense), from a few up to 10,000; the Pasture Thistle (C. lanceo- latam), still more; and a roadside Mul- lein ( Verbascum Thajysus) produces 600,- 000 seeds. I might extend this list. I merely give you these to illustrate how enormous are the powers of multiplica- tion of some of these common pests. Then, again, with many of them the seeds have special means of being scat- tered. Some by the winds, some by animals, to fall everywhere, and to spring up and flourish whenever the right conditions occur. " It is perhaps from these enormous powers of increase that the belief has so often become popular, that they were a spontaneous production, that is, orig- inating without seeds. I have met in- telligent men who believe that the Mul- lein, Fire-weed {Erechf kites), and other plants would spring up where no seed had fallen, when the fact is, that these plants are so wonderfully proliMc that a few plants can seed a farm. Their seeds fall everywhere, perhaps not one in a thousand ever grow. The Mullein 1 spoke of (and it was not an unusually large one) with its GOO, 000 seeds, if they were evenly distributed, and all grew, would produce a plant on every scpaare yard of 126 acres. The fact that weeds are far more prolific than the grains they grow with, gives rise to a class of facts that is often forgotten. Many of you know that Wheat contain- ing Chess becomes more foul each year, unless very great care is taken with the seed. The cause is, that the Chess multiplies so much faster than the Wheat. A field of AYheat, yieldiug 204 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. twenty-fold tiie seed sown, is veiy good; thirty-fold is very extraordinary; but a Chess -plant not yielding- one hundred fold would be a very poor one. Hence its proportion increases on the Wheat, and as it is also more tenacious of life, a hard winter may kill the Wheat, when the Chess will come on and produce a crop, inducing the belief that Wheat has turned to Chess. In fact, this has been a subject of discussion — I know not how long — and men may still be found who believe in such transmuta- tion. Yet few successful farmers now believe it; with good farmers the idea is exploded. "With such plants, we must get rid of them by sowing clean seed always. Chess may be got out of a farm, as I know by experience, but it takes years of patient and vigilant warfare. And the same may be said of cockle. "Bear in mind that the soil, climate, and cultivation regulate the trouble- someness of weeds. In one part of New York State, Wild Onions injure the pastures. In another part, where the pastures are just as good, one scarcely ever meets with a specimen. The same is true of the Snapdragon {Linaria vul- garis). Many of our worst weeds are imi^ortations from Europe, and what illustrates this part of my subject, is the fact that some of them are not trouble- some there. It is only when they come here, on a new soil, and with a new cli- mate, that they become so." Plant Trees.— The question of plant- ing trees is one that is of particular in- terest to California at the present time. There are but very few trees in most of our rich and fertile valleys,, and through negligence or indifference- on the part of the inhabitants but few, if any, have been set out even around their resi- dences. Many localities, now consid- ered worthless, could be made produc- tive in a few years by studding the land with trees, and encouraging their growth for a few years by irrigation. After they have secui-ed deep root they would require no further attention except to keep them in order. By planting trees on' farms they are increased from one to a hundred fold in value; and in many instances land that is now considered worthless, can, by this means, be re- claimed to agriculture. The expense is warranted by the increased value of land covered by trees. Last sjiring, for example, the Michigan Southern and Lake Shore Railroad Company jilanted trees, fifty feet apart, along both sides of their road between White Pigeon and Toledo, 11,000 Chestnuts and 10,000 Euro2:)ean Lai'ches of one year's growth being used for the purpose. Great care was used in preparing the holes for the reception of the roots, the toji soil being thrown in the bottom. The cost of this work was only eight cents per tree, in- cluding everything. A number of the Eastern cities are setting out trees in their streets on the boulevard j^lan, and in all quaiiers an interest in the tree subject is being manifested. Will Cali- fornians awaken to their own interests in this matter? — Alfa. Shade for Glass-Houses. — The best permanent shade for plant -houses is linseed oil and sugar of lead, in the proportion of about a teasj)oonful of lead to a quart of oil; but the exact trial must be governed by the amount of shade required, which can easily be proved by trying it uj)on pieces of waste glass. First, wash the glass thorough- ly clean, and then, on a dry, clear morning, take the oil mixture, and paint as thinly as possible over the glass with an ordinary paint-brush. By dabbing it gently with a diy brush, it will im- part to it the appearance of ground glass. The shade will stand for a sea- son, and can b& removed by washing it with strong pearl-ash water. — New Jer- sey Mechanic. THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. 20? THE RAIN -FALL AT SAN FRANCISCO, AND THE AGRICULTURE OF CALI- FORNIA. A recent paper read before the Cali- fornia Academy of Sciences on "The Probable Periodicity of Kain-fall," was illustrated by diagrams which exhibit so clearly the relative rain -fall at San Francisco that we lay them before our readers, instead of the columns of fig- ures from which they were drawn. They also furnish us a text for a few remarks on the agricultural prospects of this State. Figure I illustrates the relative total yearly rain -fall for each year. Figure II shows the monthly rain -fall for the same years ; and the size of the black areas indicates the relative amount in each year. In this, we see the well- marked short period of comparatively little rain-fall and of clear weather dur- ing some part of our winter months, or wet season. Figure III exhibits (on a scale twice that of Fig. II) the aver- age monthly rain -fall for twenty-three years, 1849 to 1872. In this, the short, dry period of our wet season is masked because it does not occur at any regular time. It is readily seen that no law of periodicity of rain-fall can be deduced from these observations ; nor has any been deduced even in the elaborate dis- cussion of the rain -fall of the United States by Prof. Charles A. Schott, of the Coast Survey,* nor is there any ap- parent secular change of the rain -fall. A knowledge of each would be valuable both scientifically and practically. In the early life of California, her prosperity depended upon the yearly yield of gold; her prospective prosper- ity depends upon the' rain -fall over the * Tables and Results of the Precipitation^ in Rain and Snow, in the United States," etc. Smithsonian "Contribution to Knowledge," No. 222; May, 1872. Vol. III.— 27. surface of the State. Were this as great and uniform as it is on the east of the Rocky Mountains, our future could be predicted, and little interest would be manifested upon the subject. But west of the Rocky Mountains, and es- pecially along the Pacific sea -board, every farmer, mechanic, manufacturer, and cajDitalist is vitally concerned, and fully appreciates the value of water. It is the life-blood of those sections of the country not blessed with large rain-fall. Along the northern coast the precipi- tation of rain is enormous; to the south- ward it reaches almost nothing. On the coast of Alaska the average amount is 83 inches; at the entrance to the Strait of Fuca, 123 inches; entrance to the Columbia River, 75 inches ; and about 36 inches at Cape Mendocino in latitude 40-2°. Thence to the southward the rainfall decreases rapidly to latitude 28'' or 26^, where we find the "dol- drums," with much cloudy weather and, little or no rain -fall. South of the "doldrums" the seasons change, and the rains, which are generally very light, commence in June or July and end in December. Our prosperity as a State depends not onl}"- upon the facts concerning the rain-fall as already develoj)ed, but upon our capacity to utilize them. We know that without a certain amount of rain- fall, our grain -crops must be failures; with a given number of inches fairly distributed during the season, a crop is assured. Northward of latitude 39°, we know that in a series of years the rain- fall is adequate to give large crops to ordinary industry. South of 39° on the sea-board, but especially east of the' coast range of mountains, the crops are very uncertain for want of rain. With the virgin soil of our valleys and a rain- fall of twelve inches at proper intervals, on summer -fallowed land, the average 20G THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. / yield of Wheat will exceed thirty Lush- els to the acre; with seven inches, un- der similar conditions, the yield will be about fifteen bushels. This is the re- sult of our inquiries and personal ex- aminations of the San Joaquin and Tulare valleys this season. Last year, with a rain -fall of ten and a quarter inches about Visalia, the j'ield of Wheat was very large; this year, with a rain- fall of seven and a quarter inches, the crops are comparative failures. We are thus dependent upon the rain -fall for our crops. There is not an average rain -fall throughout our ' great valleys south of thirty -nine de- grees to give an average or certain crop, and millions of rich acres will lie idle under blue skies for want of water. We can not control the rain -fall, but we can control the water, in part, after it is fallen. The river -courses are to- day carrying to the sea millions of cubic feet of water that can be spread over our valley lands, and along the flanks of our vine -soils of the Sierra Nevada. All we need in addition to the rain-fall over the whole land, is the control of a few inches in depth of water, over the lands under cultivation, from the mid- dle of February to the middle of March, to insure great crops of grain, grass, alfalfa, etc., and to invigorate our or- chai'ds, vineyards, and forests. To accomplish this, we need a comprehen- sive system of irrigation, controlling the ■water from the mountains and distrib- uting it under just but inflexible rules. '.Such a system will demand the highest engineering skill, money, time, author- ity, and integrity. It must be done, or this State will remain nearly in statu quo. This season we have seen tens of Jthousands of acres of grain irrigated since March first, standing well, ^vith a promise of thirty-five to fifty-five bush- els of W^hcat per acre. On one farm of 3,000 acres the crop was given up as an absolute failure near the end of Febru- ary, but by energetic ejfforts irrigation water was got on to it soon after the first of March, and with only one flood- ing it was saved to yield probably fifty bushels per acre. The irrigation water cost one dollar and a quarter per acre. We could enumerate many other simi- lar though less marked cases. So far as we can learn, the United States Board of Commissioners of Irri- gation for the Sacramento, Sau Joaquin, and Tulare Valleys have satisfied them- selves that the rivers flowing from the Sierra Nevada can be controlled and utilized to spread their vitalizing power over millions of acres of land, that to- day are barren, and for want of sufli- cient rain -fall inust otherwise remain so. The land of those valleys is pecul- iarly adapted for irrigation; there is no known equal area on the globe with a more even surface and gentle, regular slopes than the great basin between the Sierra Nevada and the Coast Range. Every inch of water over that basin is worth millions of gold dollars to this coast. It can be made to support mill- ions of people, and that fact carries other marvelous results with it in the development of commerce and the use- ful arts. American Steam-Plows. — We do not know of any successful American steam- plow. The English system of station- ary engines on each side of the field is, so far, the only practical mode of plow- ing by steam. American inventors have sought to accomplish steam-i)lowing by the aid of a traction engine. It remains to be shown that it is either economical or practical. — N. Y. World. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 207 SHELLAC. Tiie uses of Shellac in tliis country have, within a few rears past, increased wonderfully, and the consumption for all purposes is very large. The chief use of this substance is in the manu- facture of the various kinds of varnish, for which it is admirably adapted, and is preferred to almost an}' other mate- rial. Large quantities are also used in the manufacture of sealing-wax, of which it forms the chief ingredient. Besides these chief uses. Shellac enters quite largely into all kinds of sizing matter, particularly that used by the hatters for stiffening bodies of hats. The best specimens of this article are brought from Siam, and the next to this is reckoned that from Assam. That from Bengal is deemed inferior. It is said that the capacity of those regions to keep up the supply far exceeds any possible demand, and this may be more readily understood when it is considered that these localities furnish the supply for all the markets of the world. Though Shellac is very well known in connection with the uses to which it is put, it is not generally known what it really is. It is a resinous substance, which was once supposed to be dejDos- ited by an insect on the twigs and branches of various species of the Fig or Banyan tree in the East Indies. It is, however, rather the product of the tree itself, exuding at the sting of the insect. These insects resemble somewhat the cochineal insects of Central America, and at certain seasons of the year flv about in immense swarms, puncturino- the tender branches of the tree, from which flows a milk}- juice. This juice hardening forms a crust about the twigs, which are then broken from the tree, and form what is known to com- merce as stick-laci When this stick-lac is broken up and its coloring matter re- moved by warm Avater, it assumes the form of a small grain, and hence is called seed-lac. It is sometimes melted into cakes, and is then called lump-lac. But more commonly it is prepared for mar- ket by putting the seed -lac into fine linen bags and slowly heating them, and then straining and wringing out the material upon a smooth surface of wood.. Purified in this form it is known as Shellac. It is soluble in alcohol, and melts readily at a moderate heat. The coloring matter of Shellac, which owes its origin to the insect, is readily washed out with warm water. The ma- terial thus obtained yields a bright red powder not unlike carmine. This dye is yet used by the natives for coloring crimson, and the crimsons of the an- cients are supposed to have been ob- tained from this source. The dyers of Brussels and Holland, whose red colors have always been remarkable for their durability, use this material. Before the discovery of cochineal this lac col- oring-matter was in universal demand, but now that other red dyes have been discovered, its use is considerably di- minished. Arraxgixg Flowers ix Beds.— In ar- ranging flowei-s in beds, the principal things to be avoided are: The placing of rose -colored or red flowers next to scarlet or orange, or orange next to yel- low, blue next to violet, or rose next to violet. On the contrary, the following colors harmonize: white will relieve any color (but should not be placed next to yellow), orange with light blue, yellow with violet, dark blue with orange -yel- low, white with pink or rose, and lilac with yellow.. By observing these rules the amateur may have his flower- bor- ders vie in beauty and arrangement 208 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. with those of greater pretensions, and even surpass many of them. Nothing adds more to beautify home than a well arranged flower-bed of rare flow- ers.— SimUieni AyricuUunst. REMARKS ON THE NUDIBRANCHIATE, OR NAKED -GILLED, MOLLUSKS. BY K. E. C. STKAENS. In the true Gasteropodons (Greek — gaster, belly, Ixodes, feet), or belly-footed mollusks, we find two great Orders: the Branchifera (from the Latin words branchue, gills, and fero, to bear), or Gillbearers; and the Pulmonifera (from the Jjatin jndmo, lung, and fero, to bear), or Lungbearers — the latter respiring by pulmonary sacs. Besides this striking difiference in structure, the branchiferous Gastero- pods pass through a distinct larval stage, and come from the egg in a very differ- ent form from that which they present ■when mature or in the adult stage. The pulmoniferous mollusks undergo iHO such metamorphosis. The Branchifera are divided into two sub-oiiders according to the position of the gills, and the sub -orders are again divided into groups. One of these sub-orders is called the Opisfhobranchiata (from the Greek word qpisthos, behind, and branchice, gills), and it is this group to which I refer here- :in. The second great group of the sub- order Opisthobranchiata is the Nadi- .brancldata, or naked -gilled crawlers. The animals, as would be inferred from the name of the group, are destitute of ; shells, except during the embryonic pe- riod, when these delicately constructed ^creatures are furnished with a small glassy spiral shell, and can swim in the water freely; but as they advance in age the form of the body is modified, and the shell falls off. In the matter of sexual development, they are her- maphrodite; they are also carnivorous in their food, which consists piincipally of zo62)hytes. The Nudibranchiates are divided into three principal families: the jEolidoe, which have the gills along each side of the back; the 'Tritonidcv, which resem- ble JEoUdcB somewhat in form and posi- tion of the gills, but present other structural differences, which warrant their separation as a family; and the Dorldiv, generally of broader form and larger size than the two preceding fam- ilies, as well as of tougher substance, which have the gills placed in a circle on the back and generally in the hinder part of the body. The gills or bran- chial Illumes are of very elegant forms, and frequently present the appearance of Fern -leaves, or similar graceful and feathery shapes; the foot (or bell}') is much smaller than the mantle (or back, as seen from above). The first two families contain species frequently remarkably elaborate in the development of the tentacular proc- esses upon the back and sides, often of most brilliant and varied coloration, while the substance of their bodies is but a trifling degree harder than that of the jelly-fishes; the various tissues of the body being so transparent and deli- cate that the beating of the heart and the digestive processes are discernible. These remarkable creatures, many of them of marvelous beauty, are found in all parts of the oceanic waters, from the Arctic to the Equatorial seas; probably thousands of species exist as yet unde- scribed. As but few of the naked- gilled mollusks are of a substance suffi- ciently solid to admit of preservation in alcohol, they are seldom seen in collec- tions. They may be detected at lowest THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 209 water- mark on the under side of rocks, appearing- to the uneducated observer as nothing more than a highly colored bit of mucus or slime, for the reason that being exceedingly timid, when dis- turbed they draw their bodies into an almost shapeless lump. 1 2 NUDIBKANCHIATE MOLLUSKS. Figures 1 and 2 represent two spe- cies of California Nudibranchiate (or naked- gilled) Mollusks, magnified, be- ing twice as long and twice as wide as the living specimens were from which the drawings were made; both belong- ing to the group of Triopa. The first (Fig. 1) is Later ibranchceia /estiva, so named because the branchsea or gills are on the side of the body and oppo- site each other; the body is of a trans- parent cream color, and the festooned or looped lines on the back are of an opaque chalky whiteness, while the sub- stance of the bodies in both of the forms figured is nearly as soft as jelly. The largest of the two figures is Tri- opa Carpenteri, named fur Dr. P. P. Carpenter, a distinguished naturalist, well known among scientific men for his laborious and thorough investiga- tions in the natural history of the west coast of North America. This animal is exceedingly pretty when alive and examined with a magnifier; the upper part of the club-shaped tentacles near the head, and the edges of the gill- plumes which resemble delicate fern- leaves, as well as the ends of the short projecting jDrocesses around the edge of the body, are tipped with a brilliant orange, and the body, which is of a translucent whiteness, is covered with fine pimples {papilke) of orange. Both L. /estiva and T. Carpenteri were found on the under side of large granite bowlders near the light -house at Point Pinos, Monterey. When visiting the sea-shore, it will well repay the trouble to turn over some of the bowlders, for Nature hides many such beautiful forms as are above described, in just such out- of-the-way places. California Chestnuts. — At a late meeting of the California Academy of Natural Sciences, Dr. Kellogg said he had just returned from under the shad- ow of the finest. evergreens ever grown. He hoped the Secretary would record the fact that there were in California true Chestnut - trees {Gasfana chryso- p)hylla) from one hundred to two hun- dred feet high, four to six feet in diam- eter, and with a clean trunk of from fifty to seventy feet. This fact had hitherto been doubted, although he had stated it before the Academy several times. He had on the trip also met with Rlius aromatica. A new plant, de- scribed by him, was an Hibiscus or kind of wild Hollyhock, having a strong fibre similar to the Ramie; the first ever col- lected in this State. 210 THE CALIFORNIA HOKTICULTURIST. THE CULTIVATION OF MUSHROOMS. BY T. V. MC'EYOY. The cultivation of Mushrooms is a process in g-ardening perhaps the most singuhir and curious of any. In the cultivation of other vegetables, we either sow or plant something material — slip, root, or seed, which we can see and feel; but in the cultivation of the Mushroom, we neither sow nor plant anything visi- ble, at least to the naked eye. Yet it is certain that Mushrooms are produced by germs or seeds which naturally veg- etate in the fields at certain seasons, and which may be made to vegetate artificially at any season by a certain process, and by xising a proper compo- sition. There is no rule for the time of making Mushroom beds, as it may be done with propriety at any season of the year; nor is light necessary for the production, as Mushrooms may be as successfully raised in a cejlar as any- where else, provided it is not too damp. The only precaution necessary, is to have the beds where you can regulate the moisture. If you can obtain Mushroom -spawn, and make a bed of moderately- fermented stable-manure, about three feet deep, spawn it over when strong heat has sub- sided, and cover it over Avith light earth, you can obtain Mushrooms sooner than by the way I am about to describe. But as Mushroom - spawn is not always to be obtained, particularly in San Francisco, I would recommend instead the following method : Make a frame of ordinary boards about twenty inches deep, four to six feet Avide, and of any convenient length from ten to twenty feet; and if you can not place it in a situation already covered, you must put a roof over it, so as to prevent it from getting too wet when the winter rains come. If there be no natural drainage under the bed, make a floor of ashes, brickbats, chips, or gravel, so as to keep the bed quite dry and free from under- damp. Now, lay a course of horse- droppings six inches thick. These should be fresh from the stable; they must not be broken, and the drier the better. Collect them daily until the whole bed or floor is covered to the above thickness, and see that they do not heat or ferment. When this course is cjuite dry, and judged to be j^ast a state of fermentation, cover it with two inches of light, dry, sandy earth. Now, lay another course of droppings, and earth them over as before, when past a state of fermentation ; then, a third course, which in like manner earth over. This finishes the bed, which will be a very strong and productive one if prop- erly managed afterward. In forming the bed it should be a little rounded, in order that the centre may not be more moist than the sides; if it be made up against a wall in a cellar, shed, or sta- ble, it may have a slope of a few inches from the back to the front, less or more, according to its breadth. As soon as the bed begins to run, water it. In order to find out this, thrust your hand a few inches deep in different parts of the bed, and examine what you bring up. It ought to smell exactly of IMush- rooms, and look like little bits of thread. But generally you will be forewarned of the spawn's running by a previous crop of sjDurious fungi. These fungi are generall}^ what are called pipes or balls — sometimes a kind of Mushroom of a very bad sort, thin, flat, with white or pale yellow gills. They have all, however, a nauseous, sickly smell, and may be readily distinguished from the true Mushroom, which is thick, hemis- pheric, with brown or reddish gills. When by this means you have ascer- tained tbat the spawn is fully formed, THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 211 water tbe bed two or three times well, in order to set it growing; for without moisture it will remain dormant, and show no s3-mptoms of vegetation. Give just sufficient water to wet the bed through, and afterward keep the bed in a medium state — a little inclined to be dry. "When j-our bed gets tired of produc- ing, cease watering for a few months. Then, if you examine as directed before, you will find a new net of spawn on the top, the threads being deep-rooted al- most to the bottom. By a hearty water- ing as at first, a plentiful and lasting supply may be obtained. In gathering Mushrooms, they should be always cut, so as not to disturb the young ones which are forming. New Use for Flax- Seed. — An En- glish paper contains a statement which would seem to open the door for a new use for the product of Flax-seed, and is of value to the western farmer as tend- ing to enhance the value of this seed, as one of the products of the farm. The new use is in the manufacture of an article called liueolum, deriving the name from llninn and ceurn. It is said that it will be a rival to caoutchouc, or as is commonly called, India-rubber. The new article is manufactured of linseed oil by oxidizing it until it is solidified into a resinous substance, as we fre- quently find it when it has been exposed to the atmosphere. It is stated that "in this state it is combined with resinous gums and other ingredients, whereupon it assumes the appearance and most of the properties of India-rubber. Like India-rubber, it can be dissolved into a cement and used in the manufacture of the material for water- proof clothing. It can be used as a varnish for the pro- tection of iron or wood, or for coating ships' bottoms. It is as good as com- mon cement, having the properties sim- ilar to marine glue made from India- rubber and shellac. It is easily vulcan- ized by exposure to heat, and by this means becomes as hard as the hardest wood, and capable of the finest polish. The great variety of uses to which it can be applied in this form will at once suggest themselves to the reader. The manufacture of lineolum has thus far been made to produce floor-cloth, for which it has proved itself well adapted. Combined with ground cork, it is spread on a stout canvas, the back of which is afterward water- proofed with oxidized oil. The fabric is then printed by means of blocks in the ordinary' way. The floor-cloth thus produced is plia- ble, noiseless to walk upon, washes well, preserves its color, and rolls up like an ordinary carpet. It is very dur- able, and its component parts will not decompose by heat or exposure to the sun or water, as will India-rubber. — Farmej-s' Club. YioLxV Perpetual Yellow. — \Ye have grown all the Yiolas that have been brought before the public and recom- mended for bedding purposes, and con- sider this by far the best of the yellows that we have yet seen. When it was supplied to us it was said to bloom all the year round, and it most certainly does so. It was in bloom all winter in the cutting -bed, and all through the summer it has produced in continuous succession the most extraordinary crop of bloom of any bedding Yiolet, or in fact any other plant, that we have ever used for bedding; and it looks as little like exhausting its blooming power now as ever. The habit is excellent, and the color a clear and most eftective yel- low. Not a single plant has given way. — London Gardener. 21-2 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. AMERICAN POMOLOGICAL SOCIETY. In our June number we jiresented the Address of Invitation of the American Pomoloj:fical Society. We hope that our horticultural friends will for the honor of California make strenuous ef- forts to participate in the exhibition. We append the Premium List and Pro- gramme of Business: PREMIUM LIST. Five hundred dollars has been offer- ed by the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture, and one hun- dred dollars each is tendered by the following gentlemen, for Premiums and the promotion of the objects of the So- ciety, viz: Hon. Albert Fearing, Presi- dent of the Hingham Agricultural So- ciety; John Cummings, Esq., President of the Middlesex Agricultural Society; Dr. Nathan Durfee, ex-President Bris- tol Central Agricultural Society; AVill- iam Knowlton, Esq., ex-President Wor- cester Agricultural Society; Charles O. Whitmore, Esq., and Gardner Brewer, Esq., of Boston. The following prizes will therefore be offered, in accordance with the above generous donations: Apples. — For the largest and best collection of Apples, correctly named, from any State or Society, three speci- mens of each variety: 1st premium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars; 2d premium, the Society's bronze med- al and twenty-five dollars. For the largest and best collection of Apples, correctly named, grown by one individual, three specimens of each va- riety: 1st premium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars; second premi- um, the Society's bronze medal and twenty- five dollars. Pears. — For the largest and best col- lection of Pears, correctly named, from any State or Society, three of each va- riety: 1st premium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars; 2d premium, the Society's bronze medal and twenty- five dollars. For the largest and best collection of Pears, correctly named, grown by one individual, three of each variety: 1st premium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars; 2d premium, the Society's bronze medal and twenty -five dollars. Grapes. — For the largest and best col- lection of named Native Grapes, from any State or Society, three bunch es of each varietj': 1st premium, the Socie- ty's silver medal and fifty dollars; 2d premium, the Society's bronze medal and twenty-five dollars. For the largest and best collection of named Native Grapes, grown by one individual, three bunches of each vari- ety: 1st premium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars; 2d premium, the Society's bronze medal and twenty- five dollars. For the lai'gest and best collection of named Grapes, grown west of the Rocky Mountains, two bunches of each varie- ty: premium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars. For the largest and best collection of Native Grapes, correctly named, grown south of the southern line of Virginia, Tennessee, Missouri, etc., two bunches of each variety: premium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars. For the largest and best collection of Grapes grown under glass, two bunches of each variety: pi-emium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars. Peaches. — For the largest and best collection of Peaches, correctly named, from any State or Societ}', three of each variety: 1st premium, the Society's sil- ver medal and fifty dollars; 2d premi- um, the Society's bronze medal and twenty-five dollars. For the largest and bes* collection of Peaches, correctly named, grown by one individual, three of each variety: 1st premium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars; 2d premium, the Society's bronze medal and twenty-five dollars. Plums. — For the largest and best col- lection of Plums, correctl}' named, from any State or Society, three of each va- riety: 1st premium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars; 2d premium, the Society's bronze medal and twenty- five dollars. For the largest and best collection of Plums, correctly named, grown by one individual, three specimens of each va- riety: 1st pi'emium, the Society's silver medal and fifty dollars; 2d i^remium, the Society's bronze medal and twenty- five dollars. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 213 _ SredJlng Fruifs. —For the best collec- tion of seedling Ajiples, grown by one individual: premium, the Society'^s sil- ver medal. For the best collection of seedling Pears, grown by one individual: premi- um, the Society's silver medal. For the best collection of seedling hardy Native Grapes, either from native seeds or hybrids, grown by one indi- vidual: premium, the Society's silver medal. For the best collection of seedling Plums, grown by one individual : pre- mium, the Society's silver medal. For the best collection of seedling Peaches, grown by one individual: pre- mium, the Society's silver medal. Figs. —For the best collection of fresh Figs, grown in the open air: premium, the Society's silver medal. For the best exhibition of dried Figs, grown and cured in the United States': premium, the Society's silver medal. Oranges.— For the best collection of Oranges, grown in the open air: premi- um, the Society's silver medal. Lemons.— For the best collection of Lemons, grown in the open air: premi- um, the Society's silver medal. Baisins.— For the best exhibition of Raisins, grown and cured in the Unit- ed States: premium, the Society's silver medal. Dried Fruifs. —For the largest and best collection of Dried Fruits, with full description and expense of process : premium, the Society's silver medal. Canned Fruiis.— For the largest and best collection of Canned Fruits, with full description of process and expense : premium, the Society's silver medal. Premiums are subject to the general rule of restriction, that where objects are not worthy, prizes will be withheld. No State, Society, nor individual can compete for more than one premium with the same variety or varieties of fruits. PEOOEAJVIME OF BUSINESS. Hours of lleeting.— Wednesday, 10 o'clock in the morning, and 3 o'clock in the afternoon; Thursday, 9 o'clock in the morning, and 3 o'clock in the after- noon; Friday, 10 o'clock in the morning, and 3 o'clock in the afternoon. Bides for .Speaking.— F\\e minutes, Vol. III.— 28. and no person to speak more than twice on the same subject without leave. Wednesday, 10 a. ji. Introductory Ex- ercises; Appointment of Committee.s, namely, on Credentials, on Nomination of Officers, on Record of Fruits exhib- ited, on Awards of Premiums. 3 p.m., President's Address; Reports of Com- mittee on Credentials and on Nomina- tion of Officers; Election of Officers; Reception of Treasurer's Report; Dis- cussion in regard to place of holding next meeting; also, in regard to wha't measures the Society will take to par- ticipate in the International Exhibition of 1876, in Philadelphia; and in refer- ence to the policy of awarding premi- ums by this Society. Thursday, 9 a.m. Reports of Stand- ing Committees; Discus.sion of the value of fruits enumerated in the Catalogue, as indicated by stars, to be called by the Secretary, in alphabetical order, as follows: Ajjples, Pears, Grapes, etc., etc. At the close of each division, statements relative to new varieties will be received, Friday, 10 a.m. Reports of Commit- tees on Fruits exhibited, and on Premi- ums; Reception of Essays; Completion of Discussion on values of fruits as per Catalogue, and introduction of names of new varieties. 3 p.m.. Resolutions, etc., Adjournment. ESSAYS. The following persons were appoint- ed at the last meeting, to prepare Es- says, as follows, viz: Hon. W. C. Flago-, Illinois, on Diseased Apple-trees, and their Cause; Wm. Saunders, Esq., Dis- trict of Columbia, on Theory and Prac- tice of Pruning; Thomas Meehan, Esq., Pennsylvania, on Fungi on Fruit, and Fruit Diseases, as cause, result, or con- comitants of one another; P. J. Berck- mans, Esq., Georgia, on Cause, Reme-. dy, or Preventative of Pear Blight. In addition to the above, the follow- ing named gentlemen have been invit- ed, and are expected to prepare short, condensed iDractical essays, or papers, as follows: Professor Iiouis Agassiz, of Harvard University, Massachusetts, on the Geological Age of Fruit -bearing Plants; Dr. John Strentzel, California, on the Cultivation of the Fig in the United States; Dr. E. S. Hull, Illinois, 214 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICUL.rRIST. -I- on Root Pruning, and how to grow the fairest fruit; Mark Miller, Esq., Iowa, on Fruit Growing, and Varieties, in Iowa and other Western States; Geo. W. Campljell, Esq., Ohio, on Grapes, Culture, Varieties, etc.; C. M. Hovey, Esq., Massachusetts, on Pear Culture; P. Barry, Escp , New York, on How to grow and keep Pear-trees in vigor and shape; Robert Manning, Esq., Massa- chusetts, Is there a permanent decline in the Apple-tree and its crop in New England?; P. T. Quinn, Esq., New Jersey, on the Exhaustion of Fruit- trees, and the i-emedy therefor; Josiah Hoopes, Esq., Pennsylvania, on the In- fluence of the Stock on the Graft, or of the Graft on the Stock; A. S. Fuller, Esq., New Jersey, on Cultiue and Vari- eties of Small Fruits; "\Vm. Parry, Es(j. ; New Jersey, on the Cultivation and Va- rieties of the Apricot and Plum; W. C. Barry, Esq., New York, on the Keeping and Ripening of the Apple, Pear, and Grape; F. R. Elliott, Ohio, on the Cherry. Trees and Rain. — The influence of trees upon rain and the general moist- ure of the atmosphere, which has been much discussed of late, receives a strong illustration from the island of Santa Cruz, West Indies. A friend who spent the months of February, ^larch, and April last upon the island, informs me that when he was there twenty years ago, the island was a garden of fresh- ness, beauty, and fertility; woods cov- ered the hills, trees were everywhere abundant, and rains were profuse and frequent. The memory of its loveliness called him there at the beginning of the present year, when to his astonishment he found nearly one -third of the island, which is about twenty-five miles long, an utter desert. The forests and trees generally had been cut away, rainfall had ceased, and a process of desiccation beginning at one end of the island had advanced gradually and irresistibly up- on the laud, until for seven miles it is dried and ( Bolate as the sea - .shore. Houses and eautiful plantations have been abandc ed, and the people watch the advanceof desolntion, unable to arrest it, bui knowing almost to a cer- tainty the tijJB when their own habita- tions, their Jtdens and fresh fields, will become a paiof the waste. The whole island secmadoomed to become a des- ert. The iiabitants believe, and my friend confi^s their opinion, that this sad result ii}duc to the destruction of the trees uj^n the island some years ago. — Pnj '■•■' *•' ' rr Monthly. Sowix«i '^K Seeds. — We have the following t ' data from Robert Douglas, i>[ \ - . ,,;in. III., relating to the seeds o timber and useful trees. Mr. Dougln sows and handles more trees than ar nuiu in America whom we know, and ^ give the information re- lating to th^hinting and germination, in answer tcaumerous inquiries. "All th^evergreens (Junipers ex- cepted) majie sown diy, or soaked in tepid watci*or twenty- four hours be- fore sowing Juniper seeds will not germinate d the second 3'eaft As a rule in sowig, the covering of earth should be gverned by the seeds; very light seeds equire verj* light covering, and should >e hankaniiui$. Setting out Trees by the Roadside. — The growth of timber to take the place of our rapidly disappearing forests, has led farmers iu some sections to set out trees. While it may not be convenient or desirable for all to adopt this plan, every one can set trees by the roadside along- his own land. There are many advantages to be derived from them, which can be seen at once to more than pay for the trouble. They beautify the premises, and give a better appearance to the landscape. And if the trees are Maple, which is one of the best, and most easily raised, when grown they will furnish a large yield of maple su- gar. If Butternut or AValnut, the nuts are, in a measure, a compensation for the labor of setting them out. There is to be in the future such a demand for wood, that it will not answer to cut down and not replace in some way. In Baden,* and in other German States, as well as in some of the departments of France, the law obliges a person to plant a tree in the place of every one cut down. In this way, miles of rows of shade -trees line the roads, making pleasant shaded walks through all the towns and villages. It is a fact not geuerallj' known, that trees increase their wood -making capacity in about the ratio, as the square of the number of years indicating their age. The third year they make nine times, the fifth year twenty -five times, and the tenth one hundred times the amount of wood they make the first year. The trees grow more. rapidly as they get older, and we can not aflford to cut them down until they get their growth. Some towns in this section have al- ready formed associations for beautify- ing their sites by planning i>arks and setting out trees by the roadside. If this is not done, individuals can, with but little trouble, and without expense, procure trees and set out in front of their own lands, and stimulate their neighbors to do the same, so as to make a uniform and continuous line of shade- trees along the roadside. — New England Homedead . Charcoal on Flowers. — A correspond- ent of the Bevue Horllcole, says that not long ago he made a bargain for a Rose- bush of magnificent growth and full of buds. He waited for them to blow, and expected Roses worthy of such a plant, and of the praises bestowed u^Don it by the vender, but when it blossomed all his hopes were blasted. The flowers were of a faded hue, and he discovered that he had only a middling multiflora, stale color enough. He, therefore, re- solved to sacrifice it to some experiments he had in view. His attention had been directed to the effects of charcoal, as stated in some English publications. He then covered the earth in the jDot in which the Rose-bush was, about half an inch deep with pulverized charcoal. Some days afterward, he was astonished to see those which bloomed of as fine a lively rose color as he could wish. He determined to repeat the* experiment, and, therefore, when the Rose-bush had done flowering, he took off the charcoal and put fresh earth about the roots, and waited for the next spring, impa- tiently, to see the result of this experi- ment. When it bloomed, the Roses were at first pale and discolored, but by ap- plying the charcoal as before, they as- sumed their rose-red color. He then tried the powdered charcoal iu large quantities upon Petunias, and found that both the white and violet colored flowers were equally sensitive to its ac- tion. It always gave vigor to the red or violet colors, and the white Petunias THE CxVLIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 221 became veiued witli red or violet tints; the violets became covered with irregu- lar spots of a bluish or almost black tint. Many persons who admired them thought they were choice new varieties from the seed. Yellow flowers appear to be insensible to the influence of char- coal. Forest Trees. — One of the hard things for our prudent, thrifty people to learn, is the climate value of forest trees. The first thing the old settlers did was to destroy the forests; and their descendants in most places still value trees solely for the wood they will yield. But the more enlightened agriculturists begin to see the fatal mistake made in robbing the hills of their natural cover- ing, the sources of moisture, and at- tractors of rain. The forests are not only fertilizers, but also the irrigators and reservoirs of a country. In New England, and some parts of the West, farmers are planting trees to restore the fertility of the soil, and prevent the distressing droughts of summer. The history of the Isthmus of Suez has taught us a striking lesson in this re- spect. A few years ago, the whole region through which M. de Lesseps' famous canal now passes hundreds of richly laden vessels, was a sterile desert — the rain- fall amounting often to less than an inch during the year. There were no trees to be seen far or near. When the energetic Frenchman began his gigantic enterprise, he at once di- rected thousands of trees to be planted in proper localities; they grew up, thanks to careful irrigation, and now the astonished eye of the traveler be- holds blooming prairies and stately for- ests, where once all was ■n^iste and wild desert. But a still greater change has come over the climate; rain now falls frequently and abundantly, the soil pro- VOL. III.— 29. duces richly; and if that man is to be counted a benefactor, who can make a blade of grass to grow where none could be raised before, true glory belongs to him who has thus created, as it were, a fertile land, capable of maintaining thousands of industrious and happy citizens. — Exchange. CmccoRY. — There is considerable at- tention given to the production of this root in California. There are now three companies at M-ork, one in Sacramento County, another in Yolo, and a third in San Joaquin. The Sacramento com- pany commenced last spring by j^lant- ing 70 acres, and will next spring j)lant 180. The average yield is fifteen tons of green, and thi-ee of the roasted root, to the acre. In Yolo, 100 acres are cul- tivated, and we suppose San Joaquin must have still more, for the Stockton Independent estimates the entire crojD of the State for this year at 5,000 tons, implying the occupation of not less than 300 acres. The Stockton factory pays $15 per ton for the green roots. Heretofore we imported largely of Chic- cory, but two years since we raised a surplus across the bay and shipped considerable to New York. During the current year imjjorts to a limited extent were renewed. The Independent says: ' ' The manufacturers express the opin- ion that the growth and development of this interest and source of wealth will be slow in this State, fi-om the fact that the action of the last Congress in re- ducing the duty on the imported article from Europe, not only brings the Cali- fornia producer into direct competition vrith the foreign laborer, but actually places the Pacific coast venture at a positive disadvantage. Chiccory raised in the German States can be laid down in New York for $12 per ton freight, 222 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. whereas the freight on the California product laid down in the cit}^ is about one-third more than it is from Germany, It is contended, therefore, that the pro- duction and manufacture of Chiccory in California, under existing circum- stances, will be limited to the supply of the home demand." — San Francisco Coynmercial Herald. Sulphur to Kill Vermin. — It is well to know that the powdered sulphur of the druggist is the cheapest, handiest, and best thing yet discovered for killing parasites that infest sitting hens, and find their way to fresh pastures upon the chickens as soon as the latter are hatched. Many times the people com- plain that when the chickens are a week or two old, they drop or die from the attack of large lice, which literally cover the heads of the birds. If exam- ination is made earlier, it will be found that the insects have taken up their abode upon the chickens' heads while still in the nest, for they forsake the hen, preferring the chickens. It is bad business to have to catch the chickens for treatment after they have left the nest, when the remedy can be applied with so little trouble before hatching begins, A week or so after the hen has been given her clutch of eggs, sprinkle them and the whole of the nest and straw, for a little distance around, with the sulphur, when the hen is off. The night following, attend to the hen her- self, by lantern-light. Disturb her just enough to make her bristle her feathers, and then dust sulphur well down to their roots. Go over her w'hole body thoroughly, excepting the parts in con- tact with the nest, and lift each wing and scatter a pinch; attend to the head, neck and tail. It will not injure the hen in the least, nor the chickens when they are hatched. We repeat the oper- ation at an interval of a week — though perhaps one application is sufficient — and have never found the slightest trace of vermin upon hens or chicks after- ward. Use two small handfuls. It costs little either in money or trouble. Tobacco, snuff, grease, carbolic powder, etc., are not to be compared with sul- phur for this particular purpose, and the best dust-bath privileges for the hen are not to be relied uj^on alone. — Ex- change. Compost Heaps. — It is often recom- mended that when manure is thrown into heaps in the field, it should be covered with a layer of earth, to pre- vent the escajje of the ammonia. The experiments of Dr. Voelcker, at the Royal Agricultural College, at Cirences- ter, in England, have established the fact that evai:)oration of ammonia from large heaps of manure goes on but slightly; for the reason that during the decomposition of the manure certain organic acids are formed at the same time the ammonia is evolved, and these immediately unite with the ammonia, forming non- volatile comj^ounds. There is an active escape of ammonia from the interior of large heaps, where the heat is too great for the chemical change above referred to; but, as it ap- proaches the exterior part of the heap, where the heat is very much less, the ammonia is completely taken up by the organic acids and retained. There wdll be but a trifling escape of ammonia, while there is sufficient moist- ure ^to retain it, for water absorbs and retains many hundred times its bulk of ammonia gas at ordinary temperature. These non-vplatile compounds, from being highly soluble in water, are liable to be washed away at every rain-storm, giving the well-known color to the THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTUEIST. 223 draiuings of manure heaps. — Maryland Farmer. MESQriTE Gum. — M. F. Kalteyer, Treasurer of the Agricultural and In- dustrial Association of "Western Texas, says the Mesquite gum of that region is almost identical with gum-arabic, hav- ing been in use there for medicinal and other purjDoses, especially in the prep- aration of mucilage, gum-dro^DS, jujube paste, etc. The past year it has become an article of export, some 12,000 pounds having been gathered in Bexar County, and as much more between that and the coast. No gum is gathered west of Bexar, though the drought was favora- ble to a large crop. This gum is hard- ly known east of the Brazos. It exudes from the stem and branches of a Mimo- sa, several species of which grow in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. One of these species, Algarohia glandulosa (Torrey and Gray, N. A. F., 399), is rarely met with below the mountain re- gion of western Texas. The species most common in Bexar Countj' grows from twenty to forty feet high and eighteen inches thick. From it char- coal is manufactured. It is generally used for picket poles, being very dura- ble. It is also made into handsome furniture, the grain being very fine. It grows where no other fruit-tree would live. It was favorably noticed in the last annual report of the American Pharmaceutical Association. How TO AGE "WlXES AND BraNDIES. There have been various methods and processes suggested and tried, to give the qualities of age to brandies and wines. One process consists of heating the TNines or brandies; and another, of freezing them. One consists of pump- ing air into the wine ; while another pumps it out. Each and all claim per- fection for their processes; but those who have tried them thoroughly have condemned all these expedients, as en- tirely inefiicient in producing the bene- fits promised. The only change effect- ed was a vapid softness, that in no man- ner resembled the qualities acquired by age. Age develops the flavor through a long, slow, and gradual change of the natural ingredients of the wine; and when this flavor has become fully and agreeably developed, it is called bou- quet. There is no artificial process yet invented which can produce this result. It is much to be regretted that many of our wine-makers are so euterprisiDg, be- cause they have been, and still will be, victimized by every sanguine process- inventor who comes along. Thousands of gallons of good wine have thus been spoiled annually, by people who wish their wines to acquire all the qualities that age alone can communicate. But we learn as we grow older; and the good days of these would-be inventors are passed. We are fast coming to the conclusion, that Nature's laboratory, managed by Time, is the most perfect of all; and man can follow closely, but not excel, nor even equal. Nature's si- lent work. — Overland Jlonihly. Eescxt of Forest Extekyhnatiox. — Sardinia and Sicily, once the granaries of Italy, have suft'ered the penalty of their thoughtlessness in exterminating' their forests. Two thousand years ago, those lands were celebrated for their wonderful productiveness, and were said to be the most beautiful in the world. In 1800, Humboldt visited Venezuela, South America, and was in- formed by the natives liring in the val- ley of Araguay that they had noticed, with great astonishment, that a lake 224 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. which la}' iu the middle of the valley had decreased in A'olume every year; the cause of this is clearly traced to the felling of a great number of trees which grew on the surrounding mount- ains. In Hungary, the periodical droughts are universally attributed to the annihilation of the forests. In Ca- iro, lower Egypt, a great many years ago, rain fell but seldom, only once in three or four years; but since the time of Mohammed Ali, twenty to thirty millions of trees have been planted, and the result is now that the people have from thirty to forty rainy days every year. Surely these few of the many examples are warnings sufficient to put us on our guard. Coffee - making. — Professor Leibig, the German chemist, says good coffee should be rich in two principles, extract and aroma. "When boiled a long time, coffee is rich in extract but deficient in aroma; and when boiled only a short time it is rich in aroma but deficient in extract. In order to obtain both of these properties. Professor Leibig di- rects to take two-thirds of the ground coffee needed for a meal, put in the water and boil briskly a considerable time, and when the meal is nearly ready, take the cofi^ee from the fire and add the remaining third of ground cof- fee; stir it well, let it stand a few min- utes and serve. The above directions will not avail much if the coffee is not properly roast- ed. Roast often, and in small quanti- ties at a time. According to M. Schadler, only half the quantity of finely ground coflee is needed, in order to produce the same strength of beverage obtained by the ordinary coarse-ground article. If, af- ter the Oriental fashion, the ground coffee is crushed fine in a mortar, only two-fifths of the coarse is needed. In- fusion, boiling or filtering through a bag, all have the same result as regards strength, except that by filtering, the aroma of the coffee is better preserved. Keeping Apples in Plaster. — A writ- er in the Rural New Yorher says : "I have been exj^erimenting the past few years with Apples, and find those packed in plaster keep much longer than any other way I have tried. I use flour bar- rels, and find them preferable to api:»le barrels, as they are made tighter. I first cover the bottom of the barrel with plaster, then a layer of Apples, then cover with plaster, and so on till the barrel is full; then put the head in and drive the hoops tight. The plaster be- ing of a cold nature, keeps the fruit at an even temperature, and being fine and dry, packs so close as to keej) the Apples air-tight. I had Northern Spy and Swaar almost as fresh in May as when they were picked, and found no decay- ed ones, and think they would have kept till early Apples where ripe, had we not used them. Shall put up sever- al barrels for next sprin|[ and summer use, as I am satisfied that our best va- I'ieties, such as Steele's Red Winter, Wagner, and Seek-no-further will keep several months longer than putting them up without any plaster, and will retain their flavor much better besides." The Guano Islantds. — The stock of Sfuano on the islands near Peru is near- ly exhatisted, and it is estimated that the supply from these sources will fail within four years. A Peruvian journal, published at Lima, says, however, that immense guano beds have been discov- ered on the mainland, north of Callao, THE CALIFORNIA HORTICTLTUEIST. 225 of a quality superior to that found on the celebrated Chincha Islands. The discovery is the result of an exploration set on foot by Henry Meiggs, the great railroad contractor. Another expedition sent to a place near Pisco, where it wis reported there were large deposits, as- certained that no guano was to be found there. The beds north of Callao, where it is said that millions upon millions of this valuable fertilizer lie within easy reach, are the resort of sea-lions in im- mense numbers. — Exchange. As an offset to this, an exchange gives the following, which we hope to be true: It is said there are in Russia no less than 50,000,000 acres of land, which will yield 5,000 tons of phosphate of lime to the acre. This contains 20 per cent, of phosphoric acid. The decay of the guano trade is evidently destined to have little effect upon the agriculture of the world, for that manui-e will be replaced by artificially prepared phos- phates.— Tanner and Gardener. of leaves of the mixed forest growths, common in the United States, will yield nearly two pounds of this most indis- pensable fertilizer. Vaxue of Forest Leaves. — The New York Tribune says: "Every farmer has within in his reach material, which, if gathered and mingled with the more easily decomposed matter, will furnish for his crops food of the richest descrip- tion. Of these, the first in importance are forest leaves. These rapidly decay and contain a much larger proportion of the most valuable fertilizers than the wood. "While the dry wood contains from one -tenth of a pound to four pounds in the hundred, of potash, dry leaves and young twigs contain from half a pound up to ten pounds of potash in the hundred. Almost exactly the same relative proportian holds good in regard to the phosphoric acid contained in these substances. A hundred pounds FiLBESTs. — The Turf, Field, and Farm has the following in reference to the cultivation of Filberts : ' ' "SVe were sur- prised, on Arisiting one of our Broadway fruit -shops, to find fresh Filberts, im- ported from Kent, in England, selling with their heavy green husks on for 80 cents per pound, and this has been the average for several years. "Why should not our farmei"s in the Middle and Southern States grow Filberts? The climate which will produce good peaches will also 'produce Filberts, and all of oiu" light tobacco lands in the basin of the Chesapeake are as well suited to their growth as the soil of Kent, and certainly at the prices now ruling in New York, or at even half these prices. Filberts would prove the most profita- ble product within the whole range of agriculture. Xor is the adaptation of the soil and climate of our ^Middle States to the growth of these nuts at all problematical, for they have been grown in a small way on some of the old home- steads in Virginia for more than a hun- dred years." Coffee. — For reasons not revealed, there is a growing deterioration in Cof- fee from every source of production. It is probably the same cause that dete- riorates all fruits and other products, viz.. confining cultivation to constant selections without variation. In time, like intermarrying cousins, this breed- ing-in runs out all vegetable stock. The world is being relieved of worn-out Tea- plants, by new growths in new soil — in India. That country is going very ex- tensively into Coffee culture. Already we find in English papers praise of In- 226 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. dia Coffee that rivals Moclia, Java, and Jamaica. Coffee in India is becoming an important article of agriculture and export. In the southern counties of California, Coffee can be grown. We understand that this is demonstrated; and we are assured that, once in bear- ing, the Coft'ee-trees demand little care and insure large profits. — Willamette Fainner. Substitute for Gtrafting - Wax . — I had no regular grafting -wax, and yet wanted to graft some Apple-trees. I tried various substitutes, but none of them answered. I thought of covering some cotton with a thin solution of resin and grease, making, in fact, a sort of sticking-plaster of it. This I did, and cut into strips about three-quarters of an inch wide, hanging them on a little pole for use. After cutting and fitting the grafts, I took about ten inches in length of these strips, and bound the graft round and round, using the stick- ing part next to the tree. It answered splendidly, and the grafts were retained in their position as rigidly as if they grew there. The weather could have no perceptible effect on them, as the grafting - strips stuck fast to the graft, and were perfectly water-tight. The speed with which each graft was made was something worth noticing; and to prevent the cotton sticking to the fin- gers, nothing more was requisite than to use a little grease on the operator's hands. — Science of Heallli. Cranberry Culture. — If your peat bed is so situated that it can be drained at will and the surface is sandy, it is the best possible location for Cranber- ries. When the surface is not sandy, it is usual to cart on sand for the purpose. In this way some of the best Cranberr}'- beds East have been made. It prevents the vines growing too strong, and keeps down weeds until the vines cover the ground. Upon a pure peat or muck bed, we should not plant. Of course, Cranberries can be raised from seed; but since the Cranberry roots easily from the vine, it is far better and in the end cheaper to buy cuttings with which to make your plantation. Besides, if you can make your plantation from cut- tings or roots, and buy of responsible parties, you get the variety you wish to grow. There are now several superior varieties in cultivation. — Wedern Rural. Plant Trees. — Every citizen who has no trees about his residence, should see to it and plant shade-trees. To esti- mate the value of groves and shelter- belts in this countiy would be as diffi- cult as to estimate the value of good health in dollars and cents. No man knows how to appreciate either, until, having enjoyed one or the other, he is deprived of the blessing. The benefit to be derived from a grove in summer is that of shade and protection from flies; while the belt of timber, if proj)- erly arranged, will protect the farm from devastation by the storms of win- ter. They will furnish protection to both man and beast from the chilling winds, and add fifty per cent, to the value of the place. — California Farmer. India -Rubber. — The belt of land around the globe, 500 miles north and 500 miles south of the equator, abounds in trees producing the gum of India- rubber. They can be tapped, it is stated, for twenty successive seasons without injury; and they stand so close that one man can gather the sap of eighty in a day, each tree j^ielding, on THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 227 an average, three tablespooufuls a day. Forty -three thousand of these trees have been counted in a tract of country a mile long by eight wide. There are in Europe and America more than 150 manufactories of India-rubber articles, employing 500 operatives each, and consuming more than 10,000,000 lbs. of gum a year; and the business is con- sidered to be still in its infancy. But, to whatever extent it may increase, there will still be plenty of rubber to sujDply the demand. — Cincinnati Price Current. Perfumes. — The English magazine. All the Year Round, contains an inter- esting article upon the manufacture of perfumery, of which we learn that, from the middle ages up to the last century, musk, civet, ambergris, and lavender sum up the best known and most poj^- ular perfumes. It is onl}^ of compara- tively quite late years that the art has made so much progress, and been en- riched by so many new ingredients, as we find at present. Nevertheless, and in spite of all additions, the base of Eu- ropean flower-scents is contained in six flowers only, namely, orange - flowers, roses, jasmine, violets, acacia, and tube- roses. Others that have been tried are found of small use, and their special odor is best given by imitative com- pounds ; as heliotrope is imitated by vanilla dashed with almonds, and so on. Add to these six bases, geranium, lav- ender, rosemary, thyme, and some oth- er aromatic herbs— the last three grow- ing chiefly upon the mountains around Grasse, Nice, and Cannes, which are the principal European centres for the manufacture of perfumes; add also the peel of bitter oranges, of which the fruit goes to make curagoa; the peel of citrons and bergamots, of which the fruit goes to feed the cows of the dis- trict, and is good for the milk ; add musk, sandal-wood, ambergris, and gum benjamin; of later days add the leaves of the patchov^li, from India ; winter- green, from the United States; various of the andropagons, called by us goats' beard, from Ce3'lon; ihlaug-ihlang, from the Philip j)ine Islands; vanda, an or- chid, chiefly from Java, but from other places too in the Indian Archipelago; frangipani, from both the East and West Indies — and we have some of the prin- cipal sources whence our scent -bottles are filled, and the delicate soaps and jDomades jjerfumed. But still, where- soever the material is to be found, the French always remain the greatest pro- ducers; and, save as regards a few ex- ceptional perfumes — as attar -gul for one, eau- de- cologne for another— are the best manufacturers of the sweet scents which pervade the world. They do an immense trade in perfumery, and England is their best customer, as Rus- sia is their worst. England took, in . 1867, 424,500 kilogrammes of perfume- ry, valued at 2,546,000 francs ; Russia only 13,300 kilogrammes, at the value of 79,800 francs. After England comes Brazil, then Belgium, and then Spanish America; but even Brazil does very lit- tle more than half the English trade, and Spanish America less than half. The United States took 57,400 kilo- grammes, valued at 344,400 francs; and Austria only 14,600 kilogrammes, pay- ing for them 87,600 francs. Germany, in spite of her own especial industry at Cologne, took 107,800 kilogrammes, spending 646,800 francs ui^ou her pur- chase; but it would be interesting to know what amount of her own perfume she exports, and which of her number- less Jean Marie Farinas has the largest business connection. England does a good trade in her own lavender water, but by far the greater proportion is ex- 228 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. ported ; perfumes, like prophets, not having much honor in their own coun- try, all that is foreign being instinctive- ly preferred to vs'hat is home-bred, and the question of comparative excellence counting for nothing in the choice. Killing Weeds in Lawns. — The Amer- ican Rural Home says: "Dock, Canada thistles, horseradish, dandelions, and other strong -rooted varieties, are fre- quent tenants of the grass-plot. They obstruct the lawn-mower, and, when shaven as close as the grass, spring quickly into prominence again. Per- haps the best way of killing them out is to use a narrow -bladed spade, or a strong knife, which will cut the root deep enough under the surface, when it can be pulled up, and in most cases will not grow again. This, however, is not the case with strong -growing and extremely vital plants, like horse-radish, thistles, and dock. These require more frequent treatment, and perhaps some- thing additional to cutting. If a little salt, or what is much better, kerosene, can be applied to the cut surface of the roots, it generally kills them complete- ly.— EM-hange. Protect the Trees. — In setting out young shade trees it is a good idea to place around them such protection as will insure them from injury. This frame, or whatever it may be, should be of such a nature as to do more good than harm, and should be removed as soon as the trees have attained sufficient stability to care for themselves. We notice a large number of trees in town that had been boxed up when young, and, the boxes not being removed when the trees grew up, are now suffering be- cause of the owners' carelessness. The boxing around large trees should be re- moved, and that around young trees should be so fixed as not to damage the trees. Product of the Osage Orange. — The wood of the hedge -plant known as the Osage Orange {Mddura aiirantica), if boiled in water, yields a handsome yel- low extract, which is used in Texas as a dye. From it a large percentage of tan- nin is obtained. The seed of the fruit also yields a valuable oil, abundant, bland, and limpid, resembling olive oil, and burning with a steady flame in an ordinary lard -oil lamp. — Rural South- land. Effect of Oxalic Aero on Seed. — An English scientific journal states that ox- alic acid promotes the sprouting of seeds, so that seeds forty years old will germinate by its apj)licatiou . The meth- od is to soak the seeds for one or two days in a solution of oxalic acid, till they commence to sj^rout, when they are taken out and planted. — Exchange. METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, FoK THE Month Ending June 30th, 1873. (Prepared for The Horticultukist by Thos. TErrNENT, Mathematical Instrunieiit and Chronometer-maker, No. 508 Battery Street (oi^posite the Custom-house.) BAEOMETEB. Mean height at 9 a.m *. 30.11 in. do 12m 30.10 do 3p.m 30.09 do 6p.m 30.08 Greatest height, on tlie 27th at 12 M 30.29 Least height, on the 4th and ^Oth at 6 p.m 29.93 THEEMOMETEE. (In the shade and free from reflected heai.) Mean height at 9 a.m 59° do 12m 64" do 3P.M &SP do 6p.m 59^ Greatest height, on the 17th and 23d at 12 ar TO-" Least height, on the 12th and 14th at 9 a.m 55° SELF - EEGISTEKING THEEMOMETEE. Mean height during the night 42° Greatest height, on night of Kith 48° Least height, on night of 8th 37° WINDS. North and north-west on 5 days; south and soutb-west on 5 days; west on 20 days. WKATHEE. Clear on 16 days; variable on 13 days; cloudy on 1 day. EAIN GAUGE. Junelf.th 0.08 Inches. Total rain during the season 18.02 " Average rain-fall during the past 24 seasons. 23.80 " ■t'M •'■,':aimnm •5'-«h??_ i ^ R Y HV: AND FLORA! r: A'7Tx:^r AUGUST, lb hiw^w Anrea. ^ — Kkllooo, J i'C! : r^uli » f • 1 '1». 1 The genus Anineia ^ '6 plants separated from tli> ^7^.': .•".',/<, ,..)"// specie^ of Cu.... ••;•:.. --.^i meaual size of the si somo fpat- 'lie flower, j i);an>' forh. erfects, knov a rubber- agains t the 8U- ■■; its. tL:' ■■ the ■ El revaiiing hues of thia tamiiy of flow- il ■rs, yellow, being relativ ■■- - • - i^^- ♦ rhif* has also tlie di\ e and tube, i i,iri,..u^ ,,., . is peen in tL ^as the appeuruice of bcin;. ;hfc L •r of &<■: w 230 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. series of three outer or lower; the three others, successively higher, form the second series, which are lai'ger, except the fifth scale or lobe, which is narrow- er; and the sixth, or inmost and highest set, is a mere sharp, delicate membrane, scarcely one-fourth the length or size of the others. The outermost lowest ru- dimentary scale is not included. The upper flower is laid ojoen, and a scale removed, to show the short proper pur- ple tube; the short smooth purple cen- tral style, which is two-lobed; the five filaments or threads, bearded below, with long anthers, w^hich in the dry state twist from left to right, or the contrary way to that of the stem (that is, from east to south to west, or just the way the sun does. The seed-vessel is two-celled, with two smooth seeds in each cell. The medical properties will be referred to hereafter. Hahd and Soft Watee. — All house- wives may not know how materially the effects of hard and soft water differ in the cooking of various vegetables. While one species of vegetables re- quires hard water, another species be- comes sensibly deteriorated by it. For instance, Peas and Beans cooked in hard water, containing lime or gypsum, will not boil tender, because these sub- stances harden vegetable caseine. In soft water they boil tender, and lose a certain raw, rank taste, which they re- tain in hard water. Many vegetables (as Onions) boil nearly tasteless in soft water, because all the flavor is dissolved. The addition of salt often checks this, as in the case of Onions, causing the vegetables to retain their peculiar flavor- ing principles, besides much nutritious matter, which might be lost in soft wa- ter. Thus it appears that the salt hard- ens the water to some degree. For ex- tracting the juice of meat, to make a broth or soup, soft water, unsalted and cold at first, is best, for it much more readil}' penetrates the tissue; but for boiling meats where the juice should be retained, hard water is preferable, and the meat should be put in while it is boiling, so as to seal up the pores at once. — Z ion's Herald. DESIRABLE PLANTS OF RECENT IN- TRODUCTION. BY F. A. MILLEB. ' Every year new plants are introduced; some of them prove valuable acquisitions to the garden or the greenhouse, w'hile othei's are of little merit and should be cast on the rubbish heap. Catalogues which are sent out annually from the large establishments of the East and from Europe, present to the reader long lists of new plants, and the flower-lov- ing community are often misled by brilliant descriptions of plants which in reality have no merit about them. Our florists here in California import annu- ally from the more extensive floral es- tablishments of the East and of Europe, plants, which according to description promise to be mei'itorious; but too often they meet with disappointment in this resjDCct, receiving plants such as prove to be of no value in our climate. A nurseryman here considers himself for- tunate if one out of every five plants he imports is meritorious and desirable for our market. Out of the list of plants imported within the last two years, the following have proved excel- lent additions to our already extensive collections, and may be safely recom- mended to every lover of plants and flowers. They are deserving of exten- sive culture, are easily taken care of, and may be now obtained of our most THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 231 prominent nurserymen and florists. I will begin with the Eranthemum Tuher- culafum, which was first introduced here in the spring of 1872, and flowered dur- ing the same summer. Its blossoms are pure white, star-shaped, delicate and pleasing, resembling the well-known Jasmine, one of our most popular greenhouse climbers. It flowers with me continually, summer and winter; its habit is dwarfish, neat and compact. As a house plant I can strongly recommend it, and I am quite sure it will give gen- eral satisfaction. It thrives well in al- most any soil, and does not require large pots. It is easily propagated by cuttings. Torenia Asiatica is an exceedingly pretty flowering plant of recent intro- duction. Its flowers are trumpet shaped and of a very rich velvety blue with a dark shading. With me it has flowered continually, and is admired by every one who sees it. It may be made available for baskets also. In well -protected places, and in a warm exposure, I am inclined to believe it would thrive well in the open air. If grown in pots, the soil should be well drained with char- coal to keep it from becoming sour. It is readily propagated from cuttings, and the young plants will flower freely soon after being rooted. Streptocarpus Eesii, a native of Aus- tralia, was brought here two years since, and of all the house plants it is one of the most remarkable for the profusion of flowers which it produces at all times. It is a gesnerious plant, and its flowers are similar in shape to the Gloxinia, but smaller, of a bluish white color, blotched and striped with lilac. Unlike the Glox- inia, it does not require any rest; plants which I have under cultivation have never stopped growing and producing flowers in great abundance continually. This is one of the most valuable acqui- sitions, and will prove most popular with florists as well as amateurs. Begonia Weltoniensis was brought to California last year, and has proved to be the very best of the flowering Bego- nias ever introduced. Its habit is ex- cellent. Of dwarfish and dense growth, its shining, crimson stems and leaf- stalks, its vividly bright green foliage, and its delicate, waxy pink flowers, make it one of the most attractive of flowering and foliage plants for the house. It flowers freely all the year round, and does not seem to be at all particular about soil or treatment. Keep the plant moderately moist, and you can not fail to be successful with it. In connection with the above I would mention two more varieties of Bego- nias of recent introduction: Begonia Boliviensis , a tuberous-rooted variety, producing very showy bell-shaped flow- ers of large size and of a bright red color, very distinct from all others, and quite a striking novelty. B. odorafa, a plant of excellent habit, handsome foliage, and unusually large spikes of pure white flowers, which are delicious- ly fragrant ; one of the most desirable varieties of flowering Begonias. Eucharis Amazonica, a bulbous-rooted plant, is a native of South America. Although introduced into Euroi^ean gardens several years since, it may be considered new in this country, as but very few plants have found their way into the floral establishments of Cali- fornia. It promises to become one of the most popular floweriug plants under cultivation. The flowers are of a pure waxy white color, and have a most de- lightful perfume. It may well be said to rival the Camellia for bouquets. Al- though the flower may neither be so ef- fective nor so pleasing to some as the Camellia, its fragrance fully makes up this deficiency, and when we bear in 232 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. mind that the Euchaiis produces an abundance of flowers throughout the different seasons of the year, after the plants have become sufficiently strong, its value as a florist's flower can hardly be overestimated. The cultivation of the EucJuiria Amazonica is not attended with any difficulties, and in any ordina- ry greenhouse it will thrive well in this climate if kept moist. It should be en- couraged by an occasional manure wa- tering, and should be allow"ed plenty of pot room. A warm and shady position is desirable; it is also important that the soil should be well drained. At this time the stock of plants is small, and but very few specimens are for sale, but I hope that in another year plants may be obtained at a reasonable rate. There are, of course, many other new plants under cultivation here, and many of them are promising, such as the dif- ferent varieties of the Clematis, the White Grape-myrtle, Ferns, some most remarkable and beautiful tender orna- mental foliage plants, Roses, etc., but as they are too numerous to mention in this article, I will endeavor to speak of them at some other time. Within the last tw^o years the impor- tation of new and rare plants has large- ly increased. It is for our flower-loving amateurs to encourage our nurserj-men in their efforts to keep pace with the progress which Floriculture has made and is continually making in the Old World and in the more settled Eastern States. * A CORRESPONDENT of the Santa Barbara Press writes thus: ' ' The English Walnut shows itself as a stately, magnificent tree, with clean, grayish bark, and widely -spreading branches. It is, like our own black walnut, a tree of slow growth, and does not begin to bear until seven or eight years of age. In twelve years, with thorough culture and irrigation, it bears from 50 to 75 pounds of nuts; at fifteen years, from 100 to 160 pounds; thirty trees may stand on an acre, and it is customary here to plant Almond trees between the rows of the Walnut, which pay the cost of cultivation and a hand- some profit, and are cut down when the Walnuts begin to cover the ground. Nuts sold this year for 12^ cents per pound in Los Angeles. A little arith- matic will tell you that, at 100 pounds to the tree, which, for an orchard fifteen years old, would be, everybody tells me, an under - estimate, the yield would be $375 per acre. The only ex- pense is the cost of cultivating and ir- rigating; one man could easily care for thirty acres. The nuts fall when ripe and are picked uj) and sacked as Hicko- ry-nuts with us. It is asserted that the tree is absolutely free from disease or enemies in the State; it needs no prun- ing, and it may be safely transplanted when three years old, so that the plant- er would get a crop in seven years. At twentyyears trees have borne 250 pounds of nuts. Two English Walnut trees near Santa Barbara, thirty years old, have yielded $50 worth of nuta each per an- num for several years past." To Get Tender Horse-Radish. — An English gardener says: "It may not be generally known that if leaves or lit- ter be placed on the tops of Horse-rad- ish crowns, two feet or so thick, the plants grow through them in the course of the summer, making small white roots the thickness of -one's finger, w'hich are as tender as sirring Radishes, and much .to be preferred to the tough, stringy stuff" usually sujjplied with our roast beef. " THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 233 SOWING SEEDS-TRANSPLANTING AND PRICKING OUT. BY E. J. HOOPEE. There is often complaint made that some kinds of seeds will not vegetate. This is often owing f,o sowing them too deep, and this evil of deep sowing is not confined to the open garden. One cause why seedsmen get such bad names when seeds will not grow, is ow- ing to this too-deej) covering, or plac- ing of seeds in soil so water-logged that, though they swell, the air can not get at them and decomposition is the result. As a general rule, small seeds in pots should seldom be more covered than the thickness of their own size. A little shading, before the seedlings ap- pear, is far better than a thicker cover- ing. In the case of all seeds, and es- pecially those a little old, it is always safest to jD^^ce them in soil a little moist, and to allow the seeds to absorb moisture from it gradually, instead of watering the soil, except after some time, as in our California springs and summers, and then only rather sparing- ly. In general cases, and especially in the case of small seeds, the necessary moisture should be given by watering the pots well before sowing, after drain- ing them well, and tilling them with the light, sandy, proper soil, and then waiting a day or two for the soil in the pot to become a little dry on the sur- face before sowing. When covered af- terwards, according to the size of the seed, and the mouth of the pot covered with a square of glass, and that shaded from sunshine before the young seed- lings appear, hardly a good seed will fail to groMj. Even then careless water- ing overhead will ruin myriads of ten- der plantlets. It is safer to communi- cate moisture from below, or flood the surface by pouring the water on a piece of crock held close to the inside of the pot. The whole of the young tender plants may thus be moistened without coming immediately in contact with fluid from the rose of the watering pot, upon their tops. The previous moisten- ing of the pots before sowing is suffi- cient, in most cases of nicety, to sui^ijly the requisite moisture until the young seedlings are past danger. Care should also be taken in sowing tender things in pots, that the soil should be from a quarter of an inch to half an inch dis- tant from the rim. When pots are filled more fall than that, a careless rose-wa- tering will often send the seed out of the pot. Frequently when I have found, in my practice in the East, a pot empty of seedlings, I have discovered them in abundance among the ashes in which the pots were plunged. If these little matters were attended to, I feel confi- dent that less blame would be thrown on the shoulders of seedsmen, most of whom make it a point of honor to do their very best for the gratification of their customers. Another cause why seeds saved by amateurs and others refuse to vegetate, is, that after cleaning they are often left in a place thinly spread out, and exposed to the full force of the sun. The cai-bon, or starchy matter, becomes so fixed, or indurated, that it will not change into a sweet, sugary substance for the nourishment of the embryo. I have known five kinds of cucumber seeds much injured by exposure to the sun for months, or weeks, on the open shelf of a hot-house. A few days would have done them no harm. TRANSPLANTING AND PRICKING OUT, When seeds are sown thickly in a bed out of doors, the young plants are in- jured when they stand for a long time thick in the seed-beds, and are greatly 234 THE CALIFOENIA HOETICULTURIST. improved by being- pricked out; such vegetables for instance as Cabbage, etc., as well as some flowers, should be set out two or three inches apart in inter- mediate beds. This is even more neces- sary with all tender things, sown in pots, and placed in a higher tempera- ture than the open air. If these are left long in the pot, and especially if at all thick and drawn up, however care- fully watered, there is a great likelihood that many of the plants will rot and shank off at the surface of the soil. Mere thinning will not prevent the evil. The least carelessness will sometimes present you on a morning with a sur- face of slimy, decaying matter, instead of the lively, brisk little seedlings you admired yesterday. I have even had something of this, when, as I thought, I had seen that moisture, air, and a gradual hardening off were sufficientlj' attended to. I confess I have been sometimes nonplussed to assign the right cause for the disappointment. Pricking off, however, is the great j)re- ventive. In the case of small things, like Lobelias, Calceolarias, etc., there is no necessity to p>rick them individvi- ally ; for, if moved in little tufts and placed in other suitable soil, in pots, pans, or boxes, the danger of fogging off' will be next to thoroughly obviated; and when these little tufts increase in size, then you can prick out the largest first, and thus go over them all ulti- mately. The chief requirement in these prickings out is to have nice, light soil, suitably heated before using. "When watered, use water quite as warm as the temperature of the house and j^it, and place the pricked-out plants, for a time at least, in as high a temperature as the seed-pots stood in. Where room is scarce, the pricked-out plants need not occupy much more space than the seed- pots, if thus pricked out in patches half an inch apai't; and the greater safety of the seedlings will more than compensate for the labor. Even thin- ning the seed-pot, and stirring the sur- face of the soil, and covering it with charcoal dust, though useful processes, have not such a salutary tendency as pricking the plants off, either singly or in little patches. (To bo continued.) ALFALFA FOR CATTLE. It has frequently been stated that no pasture could be found better adapted to the sustenance and fattening of cat- tle than Alfalfa. Its merits are based on several distinct facts, established by experience. First, it is more nutritious than ordinary grass; second, it produces more abundantly; third, it requires but little attention; fourth, it is good either for pasturage when green, or hay when cured. These conclusions were arrived at in a debate held the other day before the Farmers' Club of Napa County. Mr, Cornwell stated that he had twenty acres in Alfalfa, seeded in 1854, and al- though it had suffered greatly from the depredations of gophei-s, he regarded it as the most profitable,piece of land he owned. It yields three times more feed for cattle than any other pasture. In sowing, he first seeded with grain, and when it was half an inch high sowed the Alfalfa and brushed it in. He gave the grain a start so that it would protect the Alfalfa from frost. He un- derstood that seed raised here is not as tender as that which comes from Chile. The seed is worth from 25 to 30 cents per pound. The second yeiu" after sow- ing his, he cut it down five times. Loose soil is more favorable than heavy. Mr. Trubody has a neighbor who sowed thi-ee or four acres of Alfalfa on THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 235 low, close land, aud cut from it seven tons to the acre. He thought there was no trouble in producing it, if it was safe beyond the danger of frost. Mr. Mclntire had a similar experience to relate. Alfalfa, he said, does well when it is properly cultivated. One of his neighbors has drained and plowed twice before sowing; another has plowed and harrowed well, and both pieces were fine. The former was seeded on the 10th of April. Mr. Lane, near St. Helena, has ten acres from which he cut two crops of hay before August, and then kept stock on it till late in the fall. Thought spring sowing best. Had sowed with Barley, but thought it better to sow Alfalfa alone. This con- currence of testimony ought to be sat- isfactory as to the superiority of Alfalfa as food for live stock, and secure it more poj)ularity with farmers than it has hitherto possessed. Lux & Miller, who are among the largest cattle-raisers in the State, for beef, own extensive ranges of land on the San Joaquin and its tributaries. Of late they have seeded large tracts of land with Alfalfa, which flourishes to such an extent as to make one acre of land supply as much food for cattle as was formerly yielded by twenty acres. More than this, the Alfalfa land sup- plies food for cattle the year round, whereas hitherto the same land fur- nished grazing only fi.ve or six months in the year. The general introduction of Alfalfa into grazing regions will not only improve the quality, but increase the quantity of beef, and besides ena- ble the graziers to dispense with the use of three-fourths of the land now occu- pied by them. Califounia Floweii Season. — A cor- respondent at San Jose, California, writing early in January says: " In this balmy western land, we sit to write by open windows, inhaling the perfume of Heliotrope and Mignonette. Daisies sparkle in the sun after the early show- er. The fall -sown Italian and lawn grasses have covered the brown soil with tenderest green. Springing wild grasses are clothing the distant hills. Singing birds at this sweet morning hour fill the evergreen Oaks with mel- ody. Down the street, door-yards are bright with Pinks and Pansies. Hun- dreds of porches are festooned with delicately tinted Roses. Scarlet Geran- iums and Fuchsias climb luxuriantly through fences and over walls. Petu- nias, Verbenas, and the royal Calla Lily are as common as Morning Glories were in the States twenty years ago. In the gardens and on the lawns of the wealthy, we find the golden blossoms of the Acacia, the scarlet berries and graceful foliage of the Pepper-tree, and line Oleanders in a perfect blaze of rose- ate bloom. Our busiest spring time of seeding aud planting is here. Farmers are busy with plow, harrow, and drill; the orchardist aud the vintner with knife and shears." — HoriwiiUurid. You may glean knowledge by read- ing, but you must separate the wheat from the chaff by thinking. Congressional Aid to Forest Tree Culture. — Although we have not jet seen the act, yet definite information is now obtained of the fact that our last U. S. Congress passed an act to the ef- fect that anyone who will plant and keep in growing order for five years, not less than forty acres of trees, shall be entitled to one hundred and sixty acres of the public domain to which the planted quarter or section belongs. It is said that the act only specifies that the trees shall not be more than eighty feet apart. 23G THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. WEEDS. [Continued from page 204.] ' ' One of the most interesting features of the subject of the distribution of plants on the earth, is the way that some plants invade a region they are carried to, but where they are not na- tive. Three of the most common forage plants of California (and there called native plants) are plants that have no value in the countries whence they came. They are natives of the region about the Mediterranean, where they may be called harmless weeds, not troublesome, and not particularly use- ful. One of them, the Wild Oats {Avena sterilis), is found from Palestine to the Atlantic, but I never heard that it is of any value there. But in America, it clothes the plains of California, and western Mexico ; also parts of South America, and the Island of Juan Fer- nandez. Great areas of hundreds or even thousands of square miles together are seeded with it, and millions of ani- mals feed on it. So with the two others alluded to, Buit Clover (i^fec/ica^fo denfi- culata), and Alfilerilla {Erodium cicutari- inn). They are nutritious and valuable foi-age plants, from Oregon to Chile; yet, in their native lands they have little value. These plants have spread precisely as foreign ivep.d» do, only they are valuable ones, and they illustrate the principle. And whether a harmless plant here may be a troublesome one somewhere else, is beyond the power of man to guess. That is a thing to be established by experience alone; neither science nor previous experience can tell with certainty. Twenty years ago some farmers wished me to visit a locality where they thought they recognized a bad weed. They were from Eastern New York, where the Snapdragon is a vile pest, and thought they had recog- nized an old foe near their new home farther west. I examined it; it was the Snapdragon, yet no one tried to exter- minate it. It was by the roadside, and it seemed no one's particular business to do so. Fifteen years or more later I saw it again; it had scarcely extended at all; it was simply in an uncongenial region, and there it did not flourish; it was a weed still, but a veiy harmless one. In our brooks and streams, here and there, is a little water plant, more common perhajjs in Canada than here; not rare here, however, and I have never heard that it was very trouble- some. It was accidentally introduced into the waters of England, where it has sj)read so rajndly as to interfere with navigation. It costs thousands of pounds sterling every year to keep it out of the canals. A story that it had been put into a river by a noted botan- ist called down on his head the direst complaints; the plant was named from him, and it is now extensively known there as "Babington's Curse." He was not guilty, but even if he had been, no one could have predicted that it would have been such a curse in English waters. I give these as but illustrations, which might be extended to many more cases than I could cite in, one lecture. "As an example, right here at home, of a plant called a vile weed, which is usually harmless, I have an illustration before me. A few months ago the Report of the Department of Agricult- ure gave a list of some native plants that might be cultivated for ornament. Among them was one, rather common in New England, known to botanists as Fotentilla fruticosa. Immediately your secretary protested. In Litchfield and Berkshire counties, and regions adjoin- ing, it is a vile shrub, especially injuri- ous to moist pasture land, and is called Hardhack, Another shi-ub is usually THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 237 known under that name elsewhere, but with you this is so much worse than the genuine article that it has stolen its name. (I inquired of the farmers at this meeting, and all agreed that this is a vile pest of the pastures and meadows, but I have not heard that it is trouble- some elsewhere). " In short, weeds are not only trouble- some, but they are also very capricious. The most abundant, and perhaps the most widely -spread plant on the earth, the common Brake (Fteris aquilina), is not hard to eradicate, and will not thrive at all if cultivated." THE HAZEL — (COPtYLUS EOSTRATUS.) BY DE. A. KELLOGG. "The Hazel Bush o'erhangs the thrush, The spreading thorn the linnet; Thus every kind their pleasure find, The savage and the tender." — Biiriis. Who will say why the wild woods woo so gently, or who may tell all their charms? Let us consider the Hazel, among many, for a moment, ere we pass on. Freshening the breath of spring with enlivening odor, the soft, velvety, new leaves of the Hazel spray forth archwise in clean and lively green. Note the delicate, doubly -fringed bor- der— twigs tasseled and powdered in tags, and beset with pretty pink female flowers — anon in sober summer dress of russet -brown fruit, and final glory of yellow, autumn -crowned. A diadem of useful deeds, in the triumphant cycle of its season. Does not that thicket please most that modestly coquets the sylvan visitant, gently caressing while it obstructs, our pathway; \et never so entangling as to forbid the final en- trance? 'Tis thus with the witchins- Hazel. The pet squirrel and the fa- vored child may gather nuts from its Vol. III.— 31. boughs; but we will speak of the use of the body and boughs themselves. Few can realize the value this shrub subserves in an economical point of view. Would any one be apt to sup- pose that on a wilderness coast like ours, we have been in the habit of im- porting, if one may say so, from the East, hoops and splints for barrels, and bands for boxes, packages, etc., to a very great extent ? But an enterprising citizen of San Francisco has developed V'>v>i»Xr-^>^ a new source of wealth on the coast, that already gives employment to more than 150 men as collectors, apart from middle men, and final employes. The faggots are sjjlit and dressed ready for use, bound in bundles of 50 to 100 each, 4^ to 8 feet in length, as seen in the market. During the year 1872, about 2,250,000 Hazel hoops of the sizes named w^ere used in this State. For want of proper cultivation, we are in- formed that these young growths are diminishing, and that if better attention were paid to raise this article of com- merce it would pay handsomely in the future. Sonoma and Marin counties, in the State of California, produce the 238 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. largest number of hoops, while Olym- pia, Steilacoom, and Seattle on Puget Sound, and Vancouver, W. T. , on the Columbia River, are next in order of production. Not one of the woods on this coast except Hazel is adapted for this j)urpose, and all importations from other countries have ceased. Thus we see, in the ultimate indus- trial details of oi^e citizen onli/, how much we owe to industry in the small — which is the greatest industry of all, if allowed the jingling proverb. A GOOD LIST OF KOSES. Each season lists of Roses are made out by the respective florists for the gratification of flower- lovers, and they all get into print, and none of them agree. We observe that every florist's idea of a good list of Roses is gauged considerably by the question : Are they easily propagated? If so, he can sell them, and, of course, indorses them. It has become so much the rule now for every florist to recommend as best only those sorts which he can propagate easily, that we must beg pardon for saying we can not trust their interested ojDinions altogether. The following list was made out by an amateur who con- siders the list a very good one because the flowers are good, and in climate south of 42*^ are all good growers. We doubt if the list can be excelled: Best six ever - blooming Hoses for Gen- eral Use. 1. Giant of Battles, crimson. 2. General Jacqueminot, scarlet crim- son. 3. Indica Alba, white daily. 4. Glorie de Dijon, yellow, copper cen- tre. 5. Appoline, bright Rose. G. George Peabody, purplish crimson. These are all fine -blooming Roses, aaid hardy, which is a great thing for stand- ards. There are, however, numerous others equally as fine, which other peo- ple would designate as their favorites. Bed three Roses for Circular Beds for Permanent Effect and Contiviiovs Bloom. — -1. Safrano (Tea), Apricot color. 2. Hermosa (Bourbon), pale pink. 3. Washington (Noisette), white. These are fine -blooming Roses, but those who like darker colors would prefer Lord Raglan, dark crimson, but not a free bloomer; Charles Martel, another su- perb crimson, and Cardinal Patrizzi, very dark crimson, good bloomer. Two Varieties for a Bo^e Hedge. — 1. Herbemont Cluster, bears a profusion of white clusters, and blooms till De- cember. 2. Appoline, a most lovely fall Rose, growing in good ground from ten to fifteen feet, and glorious from September to November. It blooms profusely during the summer, but as the fall advances its color is of the most vivid pink. .^. __ Bouquets in Paris. — Americans can not appreciate the almost universal cus- tom in Paris and London of button-hole Bouquets. As an evidence of their im- mense use, a French journal asserts that the average annual sale of bouquets of Violets in Paris is 5,825,000. W^hile in London it is so much the custom that at entertainments a gentleman appears singular without one. — Horticulturist. The Gazette des Campagnes says that Mr. Hucghe has succeeded in changing the common Cowslip from its natural yellow to an intense purple by merely transplanting it into richer earth. The color of plants can be readily varied by mixing certain substances with the soil. Wood charcoal will darken the hue of Dahlias, Petunias, and Hyacinths. Car- bonate of soda turns the last-mentioned flowers red, and phosphate of soda al- ters greatly the shades of many plants. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 239 GUM PLANTS. The following gum-producing plants are worthy of notice as being indigenous to, or suscei^tible of, successful cultiva- tion in California. Their products are of high commercial value : Gamboge. — This gum resin is yielded by several plants. That known as Cey- lon Gamboge is obtained from Garcinia Morelln, a fine tree with glossy foliage, somewhat like that of the evergreen Magnolia. This plant is supposed to be a native of Siam, but has been in- troduced extensively into other tropical countries. The gum is obtained by making incisions in the bark, or by breaking the branches and collecting the juice as it drops. It is used as a pigment in the arts, and medicinally as a purgative. American Gamboge is ob- tained from Vismia Gidanensis, a shrub- by plant found in Surinam and Mexico, which abounds in a yellow, resinous juice, resembling in its appearance, as ■well as other properties, the Gamboge of Ceylon. There are other species found in Brazil and Guiana that yield similar resins. Benzoin. — Sometimes called Gum Benjamin, is obtained from the stems of Stijrax Benzoin, a native of Borneo and other Indian islands. Incisions are made in the bark, from which the juice exudes, but adheres. When dry it is removed with a chisel or blunt knife. The gum which exudes from the natural fissures is considered the most valuable, having a stronger per- fume than that produced from wounds in the tree. It is used medicinally, by perfume-makers, and as a compound in the mixtures used as incense. Caoutchouc or India-rubber. — One of the principal plants furnishing this sub- stance is Siphonia Brasiliensis, a com- mon tree in the forests of Para, Brazil. This gum exists in the tree in the form of a thin, white milk, and is obtained by making incisions in the trunk, from which it exudes, and is collected in ves- sels, and afterward converted into the homogeneous, elastic mass, familiar to us as India-rubber, by pouring the milk upon molds, and immediately holding them over a dense smoke. As it solidi- fies, another coating is formed over it, and the j)rocess is repeated until the re- quired thickness is secured. Siphonia elaslica, Siphonia lutea, and Siphonia hrevifolia also furnish India-rubber of good quality. Others of this genus yield an inferior, brittle gum. GuTTA Percha. — This is the dried juice of Isonandra guita, a large forest tree, reaching a height of sixty or sev- enty feet, with a trunk two or three feet in diameter. It is a native of the isl- ands of Southern India, especially of Borneo and Sumatra. Balata gum is an elastic gum obtained from Jlimusops balata, a native of British Guiana, where it forms a tree of large dimensions. The milky juice is obtained by incision of the trunk. It dries very quickly on exposure to the air, if the air is diy, and can be molded into shape by being- first softened in water. This gum seems to be of a character intermediate be- tween India-rubber and gutta j)ercha, j)Ossessing the elasticity' of the one and the ductility of the other, without the intractability of India-rubber or the brittleness of pure gutta i^ercha. It is successfully employed as an insulating medium for telegraphic purposes. — Ex- change. To Exterminate Insects in Gardens. ^ — - Mix with three or four gallons of warm water one pound of black or white helle- bore, add eight or ten pailfuls of cold water, and syringe the plants infected. 240 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. MANAGEMENT OF THE SURFACE- SOIL. BY KOBEKT WILSON.* A narrow strip of ground along eitlaer side of a fence erected on my own j)i'emises last spring, having been trod- den down and tlie surface thoroughly impacted by the feet of the workmen engaged in putting up the inclosure, was found to be quite damp when dug into along in the summer, while the ground by the side of it, which, like this strip, had been deeply sp)aded up during the preceding winter, was per- fectly dry as far down as it had been disturbed. I was engaged in tree-culture in Santa Cruz, and had there a very dif- ferent experience, having found that the more loose and open the surface -soil was kept the greater its capacity for ab- sorbing and retaining moisture. The explanation of these different results is found in the fact that the atmosphere in the vicinity of Santa Cruz, owing to proximity to the ocean, retains even in the summer a large share of humidity, which the porous condition of the ground enables it to readily absorb, keeping it thereby in a constant state of moisture; whereas, ground near Val- lejo, being too far inland to be much , affected by the sea air, is in better con- .dition to retain the moisture with the .surface somewhat impacted. Hence the advantage of passing over it a heavy roller after it has been sown or planted. Bearing this fact in mind, cultivators of the soil, whatever branch of husbandry ithey may be engaged in, will be gov- erned accordingly; the principle here enunciated is all-controlling, and should .never be lost sight of ; being equally * This gentleman is a practical arboricultur- ist, having a small nursery near Viillejo, and communicates to us the following fact. We •want just such men, who learn by experience, to send us facts from all parts of this coast. ajiplicable to the raising of vegetables, Wheat, or other cereal crops, as to the culture of plants and trees. The soil should, of course, be thoroughly pul- verized in all cases, the surface alone being impacted with the roller where the drought is such as to indicate this mode of tillaft-e. FORESTS AND RAIN-FALL. The " Bulletin of the Torrey Botani- cal Club" for February contains a let- ter from Mr. Fred. Hubbard, which gives a sei'ies of facts respecting the relation of rain - fall and forests as ex- emplified in some of the West India Islands, which we regard as imiDortant, and from its bearing on this somewhat disputed subject we think its reproduc- tion here will be useful. The introductory remarks refer to some previously published statements by Mr. James S. Merriam, of New York: "Your brief published statement con- cerning the diminution in the rain -fall of the island of Santa Cruz is in the main correct, save that it gives the idea of a more rapid change than has j)rob- ably taken place. At my former visit, twenty-seven years ago, the desiccation had undoubtedly made some progress, but not sufficient to make itself mani- fest in a very marked degree. The change from fertility to barrenness, which at first must have been almost imperceptible, is no doubt taking place in an accelerated ratio. ' ' Every new plantation swallowed up by the onward march of desolation, aug- ments the cause and renders the arrest of the evil more and more hopeless. This movement is from the east (the windward end of the island) toward the west, and is now quite conspicuous. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 241 Every few years an estate, formerly green with cane-fields, becoming inca- pable of producing further crops, has to be abandoned to the graziers, whose cattle find a meagre pasturage upon it a few seasons longer. These are in turn dnven off, and the land is entirely aban- doned. Henceforward it becomes, if not quite a desert, at least a barren waste, producing only a sparse and prickly vegetation, over which a few arborescent cacti reign supreme. A narrow belt of green lines the sea shore of this region, consisting of cocoa-nut palms, the jDoisouous manchineel, tlie sea-side grape, and a few shrubs, whose natural habitat is along the high -water mark; but inland cultivation is impos- sible without constant irrigation. As there are no streams upon the island, with the exception of a few rills chiefly near the western end, and the wells are failing, no means remain to force life from the unwilling soil. Some attemjits were at one time made to arrest this insidious advance, but too late to be effectual. A planter, I was told, not long since set out a thousand trees upon his estate and lost every oue. It is probable that had this remedy been universally adopted in time there might be a more hopeful future for Santa Cruz. But the final depopulation of this beautiful island seems now to be written indelibly among the decrees of fate. "St. Thomas, an island lying thirty miles distant, is similarly affected. This island, however, being loftier, and hav- ing scarcely any level land, seems to attract to itself a rather more liberal amount of moisture from the clouds. "About fifty miles westward of these islands, and in the same parallel, lies the large island of Porto Rico. The land here is almost wholly mountain- ous, the eastern ridges rising to 3,000 feet. A large portion of the interior is still covered with primitive forest, a tangled tropical vegetation of vivid pe- rennial verdure. The rain-fall is abun- dant, and the soil yields bountiful crops of coffee and sugar, with a great vari- et}- of fruits. "The contrast between neighboring islands so similarly situated is most striking. The sad change which has befallen the smaller ones is, without any doubt, to be ascribed to human agency alone. It is recorded of these that in former times they were clothed with dense forests, and their oldest in- habitants remember when the rains were abundant, and the hills and all uncultivated j)laces were shaded by ex- tensive groves. The removal of the trees was certainly the cause of the present evil. The opening of the soil to the vertical sun rapidly dries up the moisture, and prevents the rain from sinking to the roots of plants. The rainy seasons in these climates are not continuous cloudy days, but succes- sions of sudden showers, with the sun shining hot in the intervals. Without shade uj^on the surface the water is rap- idly exhaled, and springs and streams diminish. There is also, as many be- lieve, an electrical action jjroduced by the points of leaves upon the atmos- phere, comiDclling it to yield up its moisture. However feeble may be this effect from a single tree, the myriad spears of a whole forest presented to the sky undoubtedly do exert a marked and powei-ful influence. It is probably from such a combined action that the drying up of the soil from the removal of the trees, destroying the balance of nature, goes on with ever- increasing rapidity. " An equally marked example of the effect we are considering is seen in the small island of Curacoa, lying in lati- 242 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. tude 12° north, sixty miles from the coast of Venezuela. I visited this island in 1845, and found an almost perfect desert, where, according to the testi- mony of the inhabitants, had once been a garden of fertility. Abandoned plan- tations, the recent ruins of beautiful villas and terraced gardens, and broad arid wastes without a blade of grass, showed how sudden and complete a de- struction had fallen uj^on this unfort- unate little island. The cause was the cutting down the trees for the export of their valuable timber. The effect fol- lowed even more I'apidly than at Santa Cruz, as the island lies five degrees far- ther to the south, and the heat is more intense. The rains have almost entire- ly ceased, and fresh water is among the luxuries. Almost within sight of Cu- ra9oa is the coast of the Sj^anish Main, covered with the rankest vegetation, over which the burdened clouds shower down abundant blessings." MILLET AS A FORAGE PLANT. Fruit in our Rooms. — AVe should be chary of keeping ripe fruit in our sitting rooms, and especially beware of laying it about a sick - chamber for any length of time. The complaint which some people make about a faint sensation in the presence of fruit is not fanciful, for two German chemists have shown that from the moment of plucking Apj^les, Cherries, Currants, and other fruits, they are subject to incessant transformation. At first they absorb oxygen, thus rob- bing the suiTouuding air of its vital ele- ment. Then they evolve carbonic acid, and this in far greater volume than the purer gas is absorbed,, so that we have poison given us in the place of pure air, with compound interest. Temperature affects the rate of changes, warmth ac- celerates it. « The poppy originated in the East. As the unfenced and free ranges for stock are, year by year, becoming more circumscribed, and lesser herds of im- proved breeds of animals are rapidly taking the place of native stock that formerly, in such countless numbers, ranged over the broad plains and val- leys of our State; and in view, as we believe, of the very general adoption of the no -fence law, at no very distant day, compelling owners to provide for their stock ujDon their own premises, it be- comes important to know which are the best forage plants for cultivation, as yielding the largest quantity of nutri- tive food per acre. To a A^ery great extent we must rel}' upon cultivated forage, our uncultivated grasses being entirely inadequate to the production of sufficient forage to main- tain the requisite stock on a given num- ber of acres, in the j)roiDer condition of flesh. It is this that has prompted us heretofore to discuss the merits of Al- falfa, the Clovers, the Malva, Rape, etc., as desirable forage plants, and now of Millet, with the same view. Indian Millet is identical with the Dourah Corn of Africa, and known in the United States as Doui'ah Covn and "Tennessee Rice." There ai-e two va- rieties — the white and brown. The brown is the most productive; said to yield four times as much seed per acre as the white; but the meal or flour of the white is much lighter, and nicer in appearance. Millet will do well ujoon very poor soils, but the product is large- ly increased upon dark, rich lands, like the alluvia of rivers. It is usually sown broadcast at the rate of a bushel to the acre, in March, April, or May. Care should be had in securing good seed, as when procured from abroad it is very likely to be weevil- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 243 eaten. It is important to get a good stand, but once up, it will grow in spite of frost, rain or drought, being a very hardy grass, and will make a crop in sjjite of every disaster. It is sometimes cut green and fed to cattle in the stall, and if not cut too close to the root, will grow again from the stubble, and in this way can be cut several times in a season. Its seed product takes a wide range, from 10 to 100 bushels per acre in ordi- nary seasons. It is also cut and made into fodder for winter's use, and does not require to be made as dry as most other grasses, and when housed quite green, does not ferment or spoil, even when closely packed or baled. It is a frequent practice to turn all manner of stock into Millet -fields when half the grain has ripened, and in a short time all will get fat on it, and still leave the ground covered knee - deep with the stalks, which cattle and sheep eat greed- ily quite into winter. The whole p)lant, seed and stalk, is considered healthy and nutritious, and animals eat it from the time it comes up, till the last stalks are consumed in autumn or winter. Besides serving as food for fowls and animals, it is used in Egypt, India, and China as food by the inhabitants. A failure of this crop in Arabia would be as great a calamity, al- most, as that of the Wheat-ci'op, It is their food and fuel, and grows by scanty irrigation on land that can scarcely pro- duce any other grain. It is ground into flour and cooked alone into cakes and bread, or mixed with rice -flour and other food. In many parts of Germany it is substituted for Rice, and sells for about the same price. There are, besides the white and brown, other varieties of Millet, and among them the Hungarian, or, as it is sometimes called, Hungarian Grass. This makes an excellent forage crop, though not as prolific in seed as the African variety. D. B. Dixon, of Mus- catine, Iowa, in a report to the Agricult- ural Department, si:)eaks of the Hunga- rian Millet as follows : "It is luxuriant in its growth, and produces hay of the finest quality. Horses and cattle eat it with avidity. Farmers in every part of the county should give it their attention, as it will make more and better feed than any other kind of grass now known in the United States. Our western farmer^ in l^articular should learn its value; for its destiny is to change the agricultural product of this portion of the Union, and substitute cows, horses, mules, and sheep in place of hogs. We have rais- ed hogs, heretofore, from necessity, simply because our only reliable crop was Corn, and other domestic animals required hay, or its equivalent, which we could not produce with cheapness and certainty. ' ' A good croiD of the Hungarian grass is about three tons of hay and thirty bushels of seed to an acre, while it will often go beyond, and seldom fall below this. Such crops were grown last sea- son, notwithstanding the drought. "It should be put into the ground in the same manner as Oats, harrowing be- fore and after sowing. The time for cutting is when the seed is nearly ripe,- and the whole jjlant of a fine yellow color. If cut too early, the seed will not be perfect, and if too late, it will shell out in curing, the stalks will also be too woody. It may be cured in the same manner as other hay. As fodder, after thrashing, it is fully equal to Tim- othy; and when fed out with the seed in, as it generally should be, it is better than good sheaf -Oats. "I am sowing, this season, 100 acres of this grass, from which I expect to 244 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. raise at least 3,000 bushels of seed." Taking into consideration tlie fact that it will yield more green food, more hay and grain, on a greater variety of soils and with less labor in any season, and return more litter to the land if fed oft' upon it, than any other grain or grass, and being a universal food for man and beast, in all tropical or semi- tropical climates, it may be justly con- sidered one of the most valuable of the cereals, and well worthy the attention of Califoj-nia stock-growers. — Py^ess. CULTUEE OF THE MUSHROOM. The Mushroom [Agaricus campeslris), named after a kingdom of Sarmatia, be- longs to the twenty-fourth class of Lin- ngeus, ninth order and tribe. A writer in the Canada Farmer says many persons regard the culture of the Mushroom as a great mystery, but it is not so. On the contrary, it is as simple as growing a crop of Corn, cultivating a Grape-vine, or raising a bed of Cab- bages, and can be done in any out-of- the-way place, taking up little room and requiring little attention. It can be raised in winter, when no other crop can be cultivated, and a regular supply obtained for family use ; or, if conduct- ed on a larger scale, with a view to dis- posal in our city markets, there is noth- ing to hinder, and a most j^rofitable business may be made out of it. All farmers keep horses and cattle and have plenty of manure, and it may be men- tioned that the quantity used for Mush- room-beds is not lost, for when new beds are formed the old may be return- ed to the manure pile. There is no oc- casion for building a place to grow them in: the}' can be grown almost anywhere in an inclosed place, even in the kitchen or sitting-room, but the best place is a close horse-stable, or even a mild cellar, etc., where the soil can be kept from freezing. For the mode of culture, take a box ten or twelve inches in depth, and as long and as broad as the space will permit or may be desired, pack it down with six inches of horse droj^pings brok- en somewhat fine, on this three inches of dry cow droppings made fine; moisten this, but do not wet or deluge it, with a strong brine of nitre or saltpetre wa- ter. In the cow manure plant the sj)awn, which can be had at the seed stores in the form of a brick. This should be broken into moderate sized pieces as large as a walnut, and should be set in a triangular form, thus, *^* and covered from an eighth to a quarter of an inch (not more than the lattei-) with fine, dry soil ; cover the whole with an old carpet, or any heavy cloth, so that the light will be excluded. Of course no sun. is needed, but just the contrary, perfect darkness is required. I have not tried the above, but suggest that it may be useful to some of the Horticulturist's readers. A Subscriber. Vine Disease Spreading in Portugal. A cable dispatch announces that the vine disease has spread into Portugal. A few weeks ago it was stated that the Grape -crop in the south of France and in the champagne districts of that coun- try was a comparative failure, Avhile not very flattering accounts were received from the wine -making regions of Aus- tria. Spain is in too disturbed a condi- tion to give the vine -crop the attention it demands. The prospects are, there- fore, that the wines of California Avill have the opportunity of obtaining a footing in the Euroi^ean market durin'^ the coming season, such as they never have had before. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 245 TRENCHING. Trenching is an expensive operation, but nothing is so expensive and trouble- some as an ill -prepared soil. This process is found to be of great advan- tage in England, where there is no lack of moisture, and still more so by the marketgardenersof the Northern States; while in our own dry, warm climate, it is, as I know by experience, absolutely indispensable. Ground thus prepared is not so liable to wash away, as it will readil}' soak up the rain, no matter how heavy, if properly terraced. There is no point of greater importance than this in gardening, for without a well-pre- pai'ed soil there is no success. Poor ground deeply moved is better than rich with shallow tillage. And when the ground has been prepared once in this manner, it is good forever after- ward. Increasing the depth of the soil in this mode, is to all intents and pur- poses increasing the size of your garden, for a quarter of an acre thus prepared will yield in a dry season as much as an acre will with shallow tillage, and the growth of plants in a season will be fully doubled. Trees, especially, will be admirably benefited, and all fruit gardens should be thus prepared. No matter how deep you may work the soil for trees or plants, their fibres will pen- etrate it and feel the good effect. The fall is the most suitable time for the operation. The manner of performing is to commence at one side of the piece of ground intended to be trenched, measure from five to six feet, or more, in width from the fence or boundar}', and from three to four feet in depth, and remove the soil to the other side, or where you intend to finish, so that you will have some soil to put in the last trench. It must be borne in mind that the top surface goes into the bot- VoL. III.— 32. tom, and it would be still better if there was manure of some kind to be had to put in the bottom. "When the whole plat is trenched, it should be leveled, and a coat of decomposed manure dug into the surface, and with a light top dressing of a good compost in the spring, before planting, you will have a piece of ground serviceable to posterity. A Subscriber. Timber Lands around Lake Tahoe. — The value of accessible mountain tim- ber land generally has increased very much within the last two years, along the line of the Central Pacific Railroad. Much of the timber adjoining that road from Clipper Gap to Reno has been cut down, and roads and shoots are con- stantly being opened farther back, north and south, by means of which the greatly increasing demand for lum- ber is being supplied. The sawmills around Lake Tahoe now pay an aver- age of $1.25 a thousand for lumber in the tree. Each tree averages 2,000 feet, and each acre 23,000 feet of lum- ber, which, at the price first named would place the value of each acre of timber land at $28.75. Of course there is not much land in which all of the trees would be large or good enough to l)e worth cutting. Five dollars each is often paid, however, for large trees. There are yet millions of acres of tim- ber land around Lake Tahoe, at least one-half of which is owned by the Central Pacific Railroad, and is held firmly by the Company at $10 to $20 per acre. Two parties lately offered W. AY. Lapham a contract to lay down six mil- lion feet of logs at Tahoe City, at $5.50 per thousand. His land is at the south- ern end of the lake (Lake Yalley.) He would only have to pay for the cutting 24G THE CALIFORNIA HOBTICULTURIST. and towing across the lake, a distance of twenty-five miles. Fifty cents per thousand is charged for towing. The mill at Glenbrook jiays $5.12 a thous- and for logs delivered there. The tim- ber around the lake can very easily be shot down to it, because the land all slopes down to the very edge of the water, even in Lake Valley, where the nearest approach to level ground is found. . — ^ Insects in Orchards.-— In the discus- sion on insects at the late meeting of the Minnesota Horticultural Society, many interesting facts were elicited con- cerning insects in that State. Much trouble has been exjjerienced with leaf lice, borers, moths, curculios, etc. A number of remedies were given for these jjests. For leaf- lice, a decoction of tobacco is sometimes successful, when applied at the proper season. A wash comjDosed of three jiounds of sal-soda dissolved in a pailful of rain-water, is another remedy, and also three ounces of whale-oil soap to a pailful of water; apply upon the first indications of the lice. The trees will be injured if much soap is used. Carbolic acid will kill trees if not carefully used. Mr. Gid- eon binds ashes around the affected parts to kill borers. Others cut them out with a sharp knife, or punch them with a wire. Moths are destroyed in various ways. Several kinds of traps have been invented, some of which are very successful. The idea is to furnish a hiding-place for the moths where they can be destroyed. Bands of hay or old rags are sometimes bound around the trunks of the trees to serve as moth- traps. Mr. Mendenhall stated that there are 1,600 kinds -of leaf -lice, and 400 kinds of curculio. Tobacco is a native of Yircfinia. MuLCHiNa. — In placing mulch or moist litter of various kinds upon the surface of the soil of newly planted trees and shrubs, a little earth should be thrown upon it to keep it in its place. This is neater than exposing it on the surface. It is used to prevent moisture from eva- porating; it also prevents frost from penetrating to the roots, and sliould be also applied where drought is prevalent. Strawberries thinly mulched, the crowns left uncovered, are much more product- ive, and continue longer bearing. Po- tatoes produce more abundantly, and of better quality. English Peas are thus kept longer in bearing, and Rhubarb and other plants requiring a cool .soil can be more readily raised. Fruit- trees, by being thus treated, are kept in better health and vigor. It wards off drought by keejjing the ground moist, and by the decay of the mulch- ing substance a great deal of nutriment is conveyed to the roots of the plants. A supply of small, fibrous roots are thrown out at the surface, by which tap roots are obviated in a great meas- ure, which are inimical to the produc- tion of blossom buds. But the great benefit of mulching is, that a steady permanency of moisture is retained in the soil in spite of adversetjircumstances and without stagnation. The coat of mulching ought to be three or four inches in thickness, and from two and a half to three feet in diameter, in pro- portion to the size of the plant. It should not touch the collar of the i^lant. The foregoing should be prac- ticed by many on this coast. — A Sub- sci'iher. ♦ Tee Petaluma Argus notices favora- 1t)ly a new shade -tree raised in that o©unty from the seed. It is known as the Australian Stringy-bark, a spe- cies of Gum-tree, and grows rapidly. THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTUKIST. 247 Ojaitoviul V0vtfali0. THE AQUARIUM. How vast is the field opened tip to the enthusiastic study of the iiaturaUst, the philosopher, and man of science, by this magnificent accession to the appli- ances of the student of nature; what an invaluable adjunct to their means of ob- servation! But a very few years since, the most j^rominent naturalists of the present age were scarcely conscious of the existence of the immense varieties of animal and vegetable life which are now the objects of careful study by thousands of earnest observers. The taste for the study of natural history has been of late marvelously on the increase, and the aquarium has doubtless wonderfully assisted in de- veloping this interesting pursuit. The diversity of life in brook, in river, in lake, in bay, and in the vast ocean itself, is now in course of enthusiastic investi- gation by scientists of every grade in all parts of the world, and the results of their studies and the interchange of their observations and discoveries will afford highly interesting and instructive reading matter in all our periodicals in every part of the globe. Among many other instructive lessons exemplified in the development of the Aquarium, is the great system of com- pensation, by which the equilibrium is preserved between animal and vegetable life, and the mutual necessity of the two great departments of animated na- ture, the one to the other, unmistakably established — not only for the ordinary functions of life, but for the more occult necessities of their several existences. Animals absorb oxygen from the medium in which they live, and throw off carbon- ic acid in exchange ; so do vegetables, but these take up carbon in much-great- er quantity than they exhale it ; and during the season of their most active growth they give out moi'e oxygen tahn they consume at all other times. This is the great basis upon which successful management of the Aquarium dei^ends, and however its requirements may be temporally evaded or audaciously modi- fied, they can not be ignored with im- punity. The first Marine Aquarium was estab- lished about 1842, in London, by Dr. Johnstone. Of course, it was on a small scale, a mere experiment; but Lavoisier, De Saussure, Priestly, Inglehouse, and Ellis, had already established both phi- losophicall}^ and chemically the great balance of life. And particularly was this subject elucidated by Prof. Dau- beny,inl833; subsequentl}^ Dr. Lancas- ter, Mr. Ward, Mr. R. Warrington, and Mrs. Th^nne contributed their experi- ences, while Mr. Gosse established him- self as a high authority in this branch of science. To these and many other ardent students of nature is to be award- ed the honor of advancing this study to the position it holds in the scientific world, and its general popularity. Still later the labors of Mr. Lloyd have largely contributed to the advancement of this highly interesting I'esearch into these hitherto occult departments, of nature. AVithin the last few years. Aquariums on a very large and magnificent scale have been established in several of the great cities of Europe; among them may be enumerated those of Hamburg, Ber- lin, Paris, London, Havre, andBrighton; in these the science has been prosecuted with untiring energy, and its popularity has proportionately advanced ; but in the United States little advancem«nt has been made, and the Marine Aqua- rium established by Mr. K B. Wood- ward, in his delightful Gardens at San 248 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Francisco, is the only one yet construct- ed on this continent. This Uxst achieve- ment of the very enterprising and pub- lic - s^jirited jiroi^rietor has lately been thrown open to the public, after a very protracted delay attributable to the diffi- culty of procuring suitable material and sufficiently skilled labor, and also to a multitude of annoying misadventures which further experience will obviate. The opening took place on the 4th of Jul}', and was preceded on the 2d by an inaugural inspection by a numerous party of scientific men and representa- tives of the press, to whom invitations had been issued, and who partook of a bountiful and recherche collation in the reception hall of the Aquarium. The guests were evidently much gratified, and since the opening the concourse of visitors has been veiy great. The speci- mens exhibited are very numerous and above average representatives of their several families, many are very curious, and some quite rare — all are new in their present relations to the public. No systematic arrangement has as yet been attempted, as owing to the diffi- culties of getting the establishment into efficient working order, and sundrj^ mis- adventures, the mortality has been very considerable, but eventually due atten- tion will be given to the classification. THE RAIN -FALL AT SAN FEANCISCO. In th .' last number of this magazine we offered for the perusal of our readors an excellent article on the above sub- ject. There are many points in it wor- thy of the deepest consideration by not only the cultivators of the soil, but b}^ the public in general; and as this sub- ject bears intimate relations with those of Forest- tree Culture and Irrigation which we have so frequently and ear- nestly advocated in our magazine, in a future number we shall endeavor most forcibly to point out their identity with the prosperity of this and neighboring States, and the necessity for energetic action in relation to them. Pkofessor John Muni's Idea of a Bou- quet.— Had I be,en able, in descending this one small side-canon, to "pluck up by the spurs" one of each of the moun- tain pines that I met, together with one of each of the other cone-bearing trees, my big resiny bouquet would have con- sisted of, first, the short, straggling Pinu^ flexilis, then P. contorta, P.pon- clerosa, P. monticola, and P. Lamberli- ana; two S25ruces — the elegant droop- ing Abies Hookeriana, and the noble A. Doiiglassii ; the burly brown-barked Juniperus occidenlalis, the grand Liboced- rus decurrens, and the two silver firs, Picea amabills and P. grandis. Had we gathered the shrubs, we would have had two maples, four willows, two dogwoods, two honeysuckles, three manzanitas, one kalmia, one mountain-ash, one amelan- chier, one vaccinium, one ledum, two ceanothus, one bryanthus, one cassiope, two spiraeas, one rose, two brambles, one azalea, one kamnus, three currants, and a few others. — Ov^rhind Monihhj. Wheat Yield. — The average yield of Wheat in different countries varies re- markably. In Austria it is 14 bushels per acre; in France and Prussia, 17; in Spain, 23; while in Britain the average yield is from 28 to 30. The yield of Barley in France is 21 bushels per acre ; in Prussia, 25; and in England from 35 to 40 bushels per acre ; in Manitoba from 40 to 60 bushels per acre by mere- ly plowing without any artificial manur- ing. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 249 WOODWAED'S GAEDENS. There is much to entertain and in- struct both adults and the rising gen- eration in this very deservedly popu- lar place of resort. The conservatories and greenhouses are in excellent condi- tion and resplendent in magnificent specimens; with a rich reserve which only awaits the opportunity for display. The Zoological Department is continual- ly improving in number, condition and variety. Many valuable animals have re- cently been added; especially is this no- ticeable in the amphibia. But decidedly the most attractive department at the present time is the Aquarium. Of this department w^e shall speak more fully at some other time. In the Plant- houses we notice Bananas Oavendishii in magnificent foliage; Mangifera rmxifera in bearing; Zingiber officinale (Ginger), and Z. cassiimunar, in vigorous growth; Maranta discolor; M. zehrina ; M. alba linearis; 31. rosea linearis, in very fine condition; Gesneria alba, G. amabilis, G. magnifica, G. zehrina, G. cinnabarina in flower, and Gloriosa superba; also Achimenes and Gloxinias in variety. The rex varieties of Begonia are in fine leaf, and the Colei are in elegant foliage. The orchidaceous or parasiti- cal plants are also displaying their flow- ers. Among the Ferns, we particularly noticed Pulu, Lomaria gibba, and Also- pliylla excelsa. CATALOGUES EECEIVED. Wholesale Catalogue of California Na- tive Bulbs, Seeds, and Plants, selected and for sale by Miller & Sievers, 27 Post street, San Francisco. We are in re- ceipt of this important and interesting catalogue. It will be welcome to deal- ers and nurse ymen both at home and abroad. This same firm proposes to publish catalogue number 2, of rare seeds of California, Australia, Japan, Chili, and other countries, in October; and catalogue number 3, which will be a general descriptive catalogue of plants, etc., under cultivation, and will be pub- lished in December next. Ornamental Catalogue of T. C. Max- well & Bros., nurserymen of Geneva, N. Y., together with a special circular of new Evergreens of their introduc- tion— -a well-prepared catalogue, select yet copious. We observe that the Neiv Golden Arbor Vitai, Lutece (Oeorge Pea- body) has received from the Royal Hort- icultural Society of London a first-class certificate: "We can not avoid saying, after careful tests of its merits, that it is the finest variegated evergreen Amer- ica has yet produced." Viclc's Floral Guides^ II and III, are very acceptable, well got uj:), and illus- trated, and contain a large amount of useful information. The article on "The Seed Business and the Post-of- fice," in No. 3, is an important one. FAVOES EECEIVED. We beg to acknowledge the receipt of two beautiful chromos — "The Straw- berry Grirl," and " Mischief Brewing"— from Messrs. Orange Judd & Co., of 245 Broad wa}-. New York, the enterpris- ing publishers of Hearth and Home and American Agriculturist. The subscrib- ers to these two well-known j^apers for 1873, will be jjresented with these two exquisite pictures, which are well worth framing. The Overland for August, a very in- teresting number, in which " Explora- tions in Tuolumne Canon,'' "South of the Boundary Line," "California In- dians," are particularly readable papers; "Etc." with its "Chinese View of the 250 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Pigtail Ordinance," and "Current Lit- ei'ature," generally, are well worthy of l^erusal. We are in receipt of the rrcnilum Lid of the Kansas City Industrial Exhi- bition and Agricultural Fair, with the Rules and Regulations and List of Pre- miums. This Fair will be held from the 15th to the 2Uth of September in- clusive. The list of premiums calls for an extensive display. We wish the managers every success. The Poultry World. Hartford,Ct. Pub- lished by H. H. Stoddard. Monthly. $1.25 per annum. This is a neat mag- azine, which can not fail to be welcome to the poultry raiser. It is filled with excellent hints, advice, etc., for those who keep fowls of any kind, either for pleasui'e or profit, and is profusely il- lustrated. FAIRS AND EXHIBITIONS. Autumn Exhibition of the Bay Dis- trict Horticultural Society. — Notwith- standing the reverses which the Horti- cultural Society met at their last Spring Exhibition, it was decided at their last regular meeting to hold another exhibition this autumn. In this un- dertaking the Society has been encour- aged by the number of public spirited gentlemen who have become life mem- bers of the Society during the past two months. The exhibition will open on Tuesday, Sept 30th, and close on Sat- urday, Oct. 4th. It will be kejjt open for five days only. It is thought this will induce a greater number of nur- serymen and fruit-growers to exhibit, as the loss of tin\e and stock has always been considerable on account of the long duration of the fair. We most sincerely hope that this next exhibition will be a success. We be- lieve the public appreciate these exhi- bitions, and we confidently trust that a proper support will be given. The management is in good hands, and no effort will be spared to make the exhibition attractive, instructive, and entertaining. We are aware that there exists a growing taste for flowers, and a fair appreciation of the horticul- tural products of California ; these are so thoroughly represented in our fairs that a liberal support should be given them. The premium list has come to hand and can be had of the Secretary. It is varied and prepared with care, of- fering over 1 1 ,500 in prizes for the va- rious horticultural jn-oducts of the State. Effects of Vegetable Perfumes on Health. — An Italian professor has made some very agreeable medical researches, resulting in the discovery that vegetable perfumes exercise a positively healthful influence on the atmosphere, converting its oxygen into ozone, and thus increas- ing its oxidizing influence. The es- sences found to develop the largest quantity of ozone are those of Cherry, Laurel, Cloves, Lavender, Mint, Juni- per, Lemons, Fennel, and Bergamot; those that give it in smaller quantities are Anise, Nutmeg, and ^hyme. The flowers of the Narcissus, Hyacinth, Mignonette, Heliotrope, and Lily of the Valley, develop ozone in closed ves- sels. Flowers destitute of 2:)erfume do not develoj) it, and those which have but slight perfume develop it only in small quantities. Reasoning from these facts, the professor recommends the cultivation of flowers in marshy dis- tricts, and in all places infested with animal emanations, on account of the powerful oxidizing influence of ozone. The inhabitants of such regi(;ns should, he says, surround their houses with beds of the most odorous flowers. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 251 NEW AND EARE PLANTS. A New CExothera.— A charming" nov- elty has been introduced in Ireland, which in the opinion of the Irish Farm- er's Gazette, has strong claims to be regarded as A 1, among the charms of hard}' flowering plants. We allude to a new dwarf CEnothera, from Utah, which we saw in flower at Glasnevin last year, and for the intro- duction of which, as of so man}' other choice plants, we are indebted to Dr. Moore. Calling at the gardens one evening last summer, Avhile walking round with Dr. Moore, he asked, haid we seen the new Qiinothera? Being answered in the negative, he led the way to the lock-up garden or sanctum, where one is sure at all times to meet something new, very rare, or of much botanical interest. On this occasion, however, all else was forgotten in ad- miration of the lovely little transatlantic gem to which Dr. Moore introduced us. Looked at in the quiet stillness and shadows of a summer evening's close, with its circlet of large pure white flowers, raised vertically above the folir age, on long, slender tubes, and ex- panding their broad fair bosoms to the cooling moonbeams, this lovely plant presented an appearance altogether unique and striking. This plant is altogether unique among its congeners as regards habit and ap- pearance. The best of the latter, as for instance, CE. Missourensis, (E. Lamar- kiana, etc., though showy as regards flowers, are of a gawky, straggling habit, which detracts much from their value. The plant to which we now direct atten- tion is just the opposite, being single- stemmed, compact, and dwarf, flower- ing when not more than six inches high, and at the end of the season nearly doubling that height. But to come to particulars. The stem is short, stout, some eight or ten inches high ; the leaves runciuate, having long foot stalks, which, together with the midrib, in the lower leaves are white, in the upper red or pinkish. Commencing at the base, the flowers issue in long suc- cession from the axils of the leaves, and are elevated vertically over remarkably slender tubes fully a sjDan in length, in a way to produce a beautiful effect. The flowers, as compared with the plant, are of great size, pure white, the limb of the corolla consisting of four very large obcordate petals, at the base of which the anthers are placed, round the mouth of the tube, which here expands considerably, and is of a greenish yel- low color. The stigma is cruciform and considerably exserted. The above description, we are quite aware, is very imperfect, and conveys a still more im- perfect idea of this fine flower. As yet, as far as we are aware, this CEnothera is without a specific name. It comes from the Territory of Utah, United States, and was communicated to Dr. Moore by his friend, M. Roezl, of Zurich. When we saw the plant at Glasnevin it prom- ised to seed freely, and we hoj^e ere long to see it widely distributed, and taking a prominent position in the choice herbaceous border, or cutting a figure in some phase of subtropical gardening, for which its dwarf habit and exotic ap- pearance seem to render it eminently suitable. Aqfilegia leptocera lutea. — We can indorse what is said of the following in the Garden, as we saw it in flower in a garden near Philadelphia last summer. It is about two weeks after Aquilegia ' canadensis in blooming, and continues through most of the season : " We are much pleased to notice the introduction of a new yellow flowered 252 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Columbine ( Aquilcgin leptocera htfea), which is thus described in the catalogue of Messrs. Backhouse & Son, York, just received by us. ' This is unques- tionably one of the finest perennials we ever introduced. Its large golden-yel- low, long-sjDurred flowers are produced in great abundance from densely-tufted plants, which maintain a long succession of bloom. This species has not yet flowered with us ; but magnificent dried specimens of the blossoms have been forwarded to us from North America. These are not unlike very large examples of A. coerulea, with long straight horns. So far as we can ascertain, this plant has nothing whatever to do with A. aurea of Roezl, of which the flower is scarcely half the size, of a sulphur yel- low shaded with green.'" A New Style of Pansy. — The London Journal of Horticulture says : "M. E. Benary, a horticulturist at Erfurt, an- nounces a new Pansy, which has large flowers of a splendid ultramarine blue, with a well -formed eye of very deep violet-purple. They are also of good substance, have strong stalks, and stand M^ell above the leaves. M. Benary has named it " Viola tri-color, var. maxima Emperor William," and states that the variety reproduces itself with certainty from seed." y How TO Water Plants. — From care- /^ful experiments, Mr. Mechi discovered f that plants slightly watered every day often perish, and always become dwarf- ed ; whereas a good soaking, given twice a week, almost invariably proved very beneficial. He says : The sum of our experience in water- ing amounts to this — that thorough soaking of the ground two or three times a week is much better than the same amount of water applied in driblets daily, only sufficient to wet the upper surface, but not the under strata of earth contiguous to the roots. Cold spring water should, before applying it to a heated soil, be allowed to stand ex- posed to the sun and air for a few hours. The colder the water is, and the warmer the soil, so is the necessity of applying it in abundance; for it is evident, though we cannot explain it, that the result produced upon plants by applying cold water to the soil, when at a high tem- perature, unless so coi:>iously applied as t» saturate the soil completely, is fatal to- tender or weakly plants, and often less or more injurious to strong or healthy ones. ♦ Permanence of Orchard Grass. — A writer in the Philadelphia Press says: AVe have a field of it, on a strong, sandy loam, which has stood for more than thirty years. It has been cut for soil- ing; it has been cut for hay; it has been pastured; it was first sown with Red Clover and Timothy, which is long ago run out, and, although the White Clo- ver and Blue -grass venture their pres- ence to a limited extent among it, the Orchard-grass maintains its supremacy, and, breast-high at maturity, lords it over its diminutive tresj^assers in a boun- teous croj), while its humbler attend- ants, good, in their jilace, modestly fill up a great nutritious undergrowth at the bottom. No grass which we have ever grown has yielded so heav}- swath as this, nor one from which so much cattle -food to the acre can be grown, aside from Lucerne, which our American climates will not consecutively, year after year, produce. Manganese and cobalt make a fine blue for coloi'ing glass. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 253 WORK FOE THE MONTH. BY F. A. MILLEK. Most of the time of our fruit-growers will now be taken up in gathering frnit, in packing and shij^ping fo the market, in preserving and drying, and in pre- paring for wine-n.aking. Very little other work can be expected of them. In regard to picking and preparing fruit for market, but few seem to care in what condition it reaches their customers; and the result is, that, particularly in San Francisco, three -fourths of all the fruit received is of very inferior quality and in bad condition. Fruit-growers may imagine that this is immaterial to them, as long as they realize a fair profit; but I am inclined to believe that they are likely to be the greatest suffer- ers. It is true that some fruits have to be picked and shipped before they are fully ripe, in order to arrive at their destination in good condition; but this is now carried to extremes, fruit being of- fered for sale in this market which is positively unfit to eat. I noticed in par- ticular this year, that Nectarines were of very poor quality on account of be- ing gathered while green; they arrived here perfectly hard, and were allowed to soften on the stand, but their softening was only the result of decay. Such fruit must be unhealthy, and should not be allowed to be sold to consumers. If the law does not provide for a fruit- inspector, as it does for meat inspect- ors, it is certainly very deficient in this respect. The same may be said in regard to Pears, Apples, and Plums. I saw dur- ing the first week of August, Bartlett Pears on most of our fruit - stands, which were absolutely unfit to eat. Most of the Plums, particularly the German Prunes, reach our market in green condition ; and certainly these Vol. III.- 33. could be shipped after having almost completely rijiened upon the trees. Let ' fruit-growers bear in mind that three times as much fruit would be consumed if the article was offered in good condi- tion. While we have to deprive our- selves here of the great luxury of healthy and fine -flavored fruit, the grower suf- fers the greatest loss by not finding as good a market as might otherwise be obtained. I hope most sincerely that at least some of our intelligent fruit- growers will improve on their present system, and give us an opportunity to appreciate their products; until such is the case, many will do without fruits altogether. In the vegetable garden, but very little is done in California throughout the summer months, the cause of which is the fact that vegetables of all kinds can be jjrocured as cheaply and of ex- cellent quality, much better in fact than I find are raised in our private gardens. However, it is jileasant and agreeable to have an opportunity of gathering from our own garden. This is a good time to plant Lettuce for autumn and winter use; also, a few Cabbages, Cauli- flowers, Kale, and Black Radishes for winter use; also, Beets, Rutabagas, etc. , are very desirable, and if planted now and taken care of for a month or two^ will take care of themselves after the- first winter rains, and be useful through- out the whole winter season. The lawn requires particular oare during the month of August, thorough watering and frequent cutting are very essential points in keeping the sod iii good and uniform condition. Ever- green and deciduous ornamental trees outside of the lawn do not require any more irrigating now. The Cypress, Thujas, and Acacias may be brought into proper and uniform shape by clip- ping off the rank shoots which have 254 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTtJRIST, grown ovit of proportion. If compact and dense growth is desired, a general cutting back of the young growth will have the desired effect. Roses have made their summer growth; cut the leading branches back, work up the soil around them, and their new growth will produce an abundance of flowers during autumn and winter in our mild climate. Hyacinths and Tulips may be taken up and stored away in a dry, cool, and airy place until winter or spring, when they may be planted again. Dahlias should receive thorough wa- : tering and a good hoeing, to produce perfect flowers; do not allow fhem to make much undergrowth or many side branches, or the flowers will be inferior. Plant some Grladiolus bulbs for au- tumn flowering, and retain some for another planting in September or Octo- ber for winter flowering. Many of the Lilies have done flower- ing; if it is desirable to propagate them, let it be done now. This is done by taking off the sound scales and planting them in sandy soil, so that about one- third of the scales are covered with soil. If Mignonette, Candytuft, Stocks, and Pansies are desired to bloom during autumn and winter, the seed should be sown during tlie latter part of August. In the greenhouse all rooted cuttings should be potted in small pots, shaded for a few days and then placed close under glass. Hardy plants may be planted in the open ground, but this should be done carefull}^, as the 3'oung roots break very easily. Water well after planting, and if they can be shad- ed for a few days, it would be a help to them. ♦^ Hk who is never satisfied with others, may learn, if he chooses, that nobody R ever satisfied with him. REPOR-r ON THE FRUlt AND VEGE- TABLE MARKET, BY B. .1. Hooper. There are every year complaints from many of the cultivators of fruits for the market, that they are not paid for the expense of raising* them. There are often gluts in the market, also, which bring prices down to a very low figure. The cause of fruit -raising being un- profitable in the majority of cases, is, that the expenses of carriage from dis- tant places is too great to afford a fair return in cash to the pi-oprietors or renters of land. No doubt there is much truth in all this, but there are also other causes for failure in the ob- jects sought. One reason is, that there are lay far too many inferior varieties of fruits planted, and those which are good are not well managed afterward. The trees are improperly and unskilfully pruned, and their produce not suffi- ciently thinned out when the crops are heavy in order to permit those which are allowed to remain to attain superior quality. Many persons recommend that can- ning estal)lishments be erected for dis- posing of the great quantities of surplus fruit which can not be sold^ but at pres- ent prices, taking into consideration the vast quantity of inferior fruit, the best remedy is not to raise any more of that poor fruit, to get rid of which it will be necessary to incur the expense of the canning or drying processes. If peoi)le can not raise such Peaches and Pears, or Apricots and Plums, as are marketa- ble at a dollar a bushel, dt will be better to cut the trees down and put in supe- rior varieties, or something that can be made to pay better. Unless farmers and fruit -raisers mean to take sufficient pains to raise the best Peaches, Pears, Apricots, Plums, etc. — all large and THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUIIIST. 255 high -colored, and without any defects — then the most sagacious course is to grub the trees up. It costs no moi'e to raise the best fruit than the most infe- rior, and it is the true policy to raise the finest fruits of all kinds, or else go out of the business altogether. Do not flood the market any longer with worth- less fruit, which not only will not pay the cost of handling, but bi'eaks down the price for good fruit. There is this season an increased amount of small, inferior and juiceless Peaches on the market, which have to be sold at any price, however small; and great numbers of bushels have rot- ted; this can not be at all attributed to our dry climate. I would say to all cultivators of fruit, raise the kinds which will sell, and then send them to market in the most attractive shape. It is also highly important to deal fairly Avith one another. The top of every basket or box of fruit should be of the same quality with that in the interior, or on the bottom. If the whole basket is filled with small Peaches (if you send any small ones at all), by all means put small Peaches on top ; if with fine Peaches, put fine ones on the top. Be strictly honest in packing. This will operate better in the end for both your- self, the commission merchant, and the customers. "What right has any one to expect fair dealings from another, un- less he himself deals fairly? If growers will cheat in putting up fruit in boxes or baskets, which do not contain what they seem to do, and want their com- mission man to cheat his customers, how can they expect him to be honest in dealing with them? Owing to the exceptional coolness of the spring and summer. Raspberries have been in veiy much greater plenty, and for a longer term in market than for several years past. They are now, how- ever, getting to be scarce (1st of Au- gust). Blackberries are also holding out well this season, and for the same reason as the Easpbenies. Many of this last fruit are picked too often before perfectly ripe. This will answer well enough when intended for stewing, but not for use in their natural state. They are wonderfully fine and productive in some of our co-ast valleys. The Apricot season is just about clos- ed. Fresh Figs are selling at from 20@ 25c. per pound; Smyrna, 25@35c. per pound. Peaches are still in immense abun- dance— the majority rather small and inferior in quality. Plums of several varieties are now coming forward in liberal quantities, and meet with ready sale for cooking, especially till they are liper. Strawberries, as well as Raspberries and Blackberries, are prolonged in their yield on account of much cool weather, and, in consequence, some precipitation of moisture. Red Currants are gone entirely. Com- mon Apples and Pears are plentiful and cheap, but Bartlett and other choice Pears are commanding good prices. Whortleberries, Black Currants, Man- goes, and Los Angeles and Sicily Lem-' ons are out of season, and there are none to be had in the market. Water-melons are raj^idly increasing, and their price, of course, lowering. The same with Musk and Cantelope Melons. Pomegranates are about 5 cents each. The market presents the usual display of troj^ical fruits (4th August). Immense shipments of Tomatoes from Sacramento River and elsewhere, have most materially reduced prices. Green Corn from across the Bay is also much more plentiful and greatly lower. Ow- 25G THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. ing to the abundance of nearly all sorts of fruits, Rhubarb meets with dull sale. Potatoes are low in price and of excel- lent mealy quality, generally. Our comparatively cool nights in California suit theui well. Green Okra has also declined, and is now quoted at 20@25c. per pound ; Egg Plant is quotable at G@10c. per bunch ; Salsify, 10 cents per bunch ; Artichokes, 25@35c. per dozen; Sum- mer Squashes at 5c. per pound. Hardhack and Potentilla fkuticosa. — Since the publication in the December report of Mr. T. S. Gold's remarks on Potentilla fruticosa, several correspond- ents have expressed their apprehension that he may have meant the Spirca tomenfosa, which is well known through- out the eastern States as "Hardhack." This, however, was not the case, as Mr. Gold sent a specimen of the jDlant he alluded to, and it was the true Potentil- la fruticosa, which seems also to have received the name of Hardhack in that part of the country. This illustrates the great difficulty which often arises in identifying any plant by the common or local name. Botanical names, al- though sometimes hard to learn, have the virtue of being precise, and of al- ways and everywhere meaning the same plant. In confirmation of Mr. Gold's state- ment that the Pot''Milla fruticosa was .one of the most formidable weeds of that section, we publish the following irom Mr. D. F, Smith, of Goshen, Con- necticut. "I have wondered whether the 'Hardback' referred to by Mr. Gold is not a different shrub from that refer- red to by Mr. Beardslee, of Ohio, and others. I would say with all possible emi3hasis that what we in these western counties of Connecticut and Massachu- setts know as 'Hardback,' and which Mr. Gold identifies as Potentilla fruti- cosa, is a very great nuisance, having caused damage in this town, and in other single townships, that would re- quire thousands of dollars to represent. Hundreds of acres in this town, that twenty -five years ago were good past- ure land, have been rendered worthless by the rapid spread and dense growth of what we call ' Hardback.' "There need be no difficulty in dis- criminating between these two shrubs; the Potentilla fruticosa has pinnate leaves, and bright yellow flowers, while the Spire.a tomentosa has single ovate or oblong leaves, and rose-colored or near- ly white flowers. Spirea tomentosa is more erect and lef s branching, with the small flowers densely crowded into a spike wdiich terminates the stalk." — Monthly Report of Department of Agri- culture. How I Strike Cuttings. — All "half- hardy" (as they are termed) bedding plants may at this season be struck with great facility without heat. I take a box of any convenient size, say one foot by one foot and a half, with a pane of glass to cover it. I cut down the sides and one end, so as to make it slope a little from back to front, so that water may run off'. Having some fine sandy soil ready, I place in the box as much as will cover the bottom to a depth of three inches, leaving a space between the soil and the glass of three or four inches at the back. Should there hap- pen to be no cracks in the bottom of the box, I bore a few gimletholes, to allow the surplus water to drain away. Having smoothed the surface of the soil, I give it a gentle watering from a rose, and then prepare the cuttings in THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. 257 the usual way. I prefer the points of healthy shoots that are not too gross, but rather under than over the medium of strength. I take off one or two pairs of the lowest leaves, and cut the end smooth immediately below a joint, leav- ing the cutting about two inches in length, working at only one variety at a time, and never keeping the cuttings exposed longer than necessary; indeed, if the weather is dry, I generallj' dip the foliage in water to prevent it from flagging. As soon as a batch is ready, I take some clean and dry sand and cover the surface of the soil to the depth of an eighth of an inch; this is a great safeguard against damping, Avhich cut- tings ai"e liable to if the weather is dull, though not absolutely necessary. I then dibble in the ciittings thinly to the depth of half or three-quarters of an inch, making them iii-m: give a gentle watering, put a label with the name to them, and cover them up till the next batch is ready, proceeding in a similar manner until the box is filled. I place the box in a greenhouse, a frame, or even in a sheltered place out of dooi's, shading carefully all day, more espe- cially in dry, sunny weather. I take off the glass and examine the cuttings every morning and evening, removing all decaying leaves or cuttings that have failed, and gently sprinkling with water to prevent flagging, though if the weather should be dull, very lit- tle is required. When the cuttings have begun to form a callus, the shad- ing is made daily less, and, as they progress, air is given and increased by degrees, to prevent them from be- coming di'awn. When fairly rooted I dig them carefully out, and put each into a small pot; otherwise I graduall}^ harden them off, until they can bear full exposure, and leave .them in the boxes until spring, when they are transferred directly to their j)laces in the flower garden. In this manner I strike more sorts of plants than I can at present remember, including fuch- sias, verbenas, i:)etunias, shrub])y cal- ceolarias, ageratums, sahdas, and, in fact, all kinds of soft -wooded plants. —Gardeners' GJironicie. Alfalfa as Hog Feed. — There is no doubt as regards the adaptability of al- falfa, in its green state, to the success- ful feeding of swine. Old and young alike are fond of it; and with little or no other vegetable food, can be kept in a fine growing condition till the}* have attained to full size; but to fatten them for the butcher requires a more oily or saccharine food. In feeding with alfnl- fa exclusively or nearly so, it must be borne in mind, that if it is intended to continue the field to alfalf i the follow- ing year, ever}' hog must have a ring in the nose, or every root of alfalfa will be rooted out and eaten. The animal seems to be even more fond of the root than the top, and will do heavy work to get it, rooting the ground completely into a condition of perfect pulverization and to a greater depth than plow and har- row can go. It is, therefore, one of the best fallow crops that can be given to the land, and should have its place and year, in all systems of rotation in a climate like ours, allowing the hogs to eat and root their very best. It would simply surprise some of our hog-grow- ers to see how easily five hundred an- imals, old and 3'oung, can be kept in a perfectly thriving condition on a few acres of alfalfa on suitable ground; and we would recommend a trial of the same as worthy their attention, always bear- ing in mind the necessity of an abun- dance of pure water accessible to the herd at all times. — Exchange. 258 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. The Thkrmometer. — The thermome- ter, or heat- measurer (from the two Greek words, tJiervie, heat, and vuirou, a measure), varies considerably in dif- ferent latitudes and altitudes. Zero, according to Fahrenheit, who never had the opportunity of experiencing an ex- tra severe climate, was supposed to he the coldest point the mercury could show; but the experiments of Celsius, Reaumur, and other thermometrical .s«- vaiils, have shown that the quicksilver can be forced to fall thirty-nine degrees still lower, and that then it freezes. The thermometer being affected by the altitude of the place, the radiation of solar rays, the " lightness of the air," or the density, so to speak, of "the blanket of the atmosphere," it follows that so many degrees above or below zero, in Denver, for instance, is merely a relative indication of the heat or cold indicated by the same rise or fall in Black Hawk or Empire. The temjjera- ture being the same, the thermometer falls 20^ for every mile of elevation. Hence, though that ingenious instru- ment indicated 23° below zero one morn- ing last winter in Central, it shouldn't follow philosophically that it was, ab- stractly speaking, colder there than at the same time here, when our thermom- eter indicated a much higher figure. — Exchange. ' Minnesota Wild Rice. — In many of the lakes of Northern Minnesota, and in the marshes at the head waters of the Mississippi, there are extensive beds of wild Rice. The Indians have long been in the habit of gathering it for use as food; taking their canoes into the Rice swamps when the grain was ripe, and beating it out with their paddles until the canoes Avere loaded. The Rice is about as valuable as that of the East Indies, and not so good as that of the Carolinas. Whether it will ever be profitable to turn these -wild Rice fields into use, or to reclaim them for culti- vation or not, is a question that can not be decided at present; but while Rice is worth 7 cents a j)0und, and the South- ern fields are so full of malaria of so deadly a character as to prohibit white men from inhabiting them, it would seem as though these fresh fields of the North, so salubrious and so convenient of access, Avere worth at least an at- tempt at reclamation. — N. Y. IVibune. The Largest Farm in England — The largest farm in England consists of 3,000 acres, and belongs to a man with the Yankee name of Samuel Jones. In its cultivation he follows the " four-course " system, the whole extent of the farm being divided into four great crops : 750 acres to wheat, 750 to barley and oats, 750 to seeds, beans, peas, etc. , and 750 to roots. His live stock is val- ued as follows: Sheep, $35,000; horses, $15,000; bullocks, $12,000; pigs, $2,500. The oil cake and corn produced annual- ly amount to $20,000, and artificial fer- tilizers about $8,000. The entire cost of manure in various forms, used annu- ally, is about $15,000. Sheep are claim- ed as the most profitable stock he keejDS, and from them are realized about $20,- 000. — Exchange. The Jerseys. — The island of Jersey has 12,000 head of horned stock (all "Jerseys,") which is about one to eveiy two acres of agricultural land. The farms of the island rarely exceed 40 acres, and the feed of the cattle is main- ly r^ots and grass, with some straw in winter. The prosperity of the Jersey farmers is said to be unequaled, in the same class, either in Europe or America. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 259 Remedy for the Mildew on Vines. — A correspondent of a leading English horticultural work writes: "I read, a short time since, in a popular periodical, that 'irrigating the vine with dilute bisulphate of lime is a simple and com- plete remedy for the vine disease' (mil- dew). Is this so ? And in what way, and in what quantity and proportions, ought the solution to be applied? My vines are completely conquered by mil- dew in spite of sulphur liberally ap- plied. In 1870 I had very few bunches, although in former years I had good crops; and last year, 1872, I had not a grape. Leaves, stems, fruit, and all, were all eaten into and destroyed by the mildew. "What can I do?" If by bisulphate of lime be intended the liquor made by boiling lime and sulphur together, we should think it a very dan- gerous application to a living plant; but, whatever the preparation intended is, it could have no effect on the vine- mildew if applied to the roots of a vine. The vine -mildew is a fungus attacking the leaves and stems of the vine, and the remedy must be applied to the parts affected. The spores of this fungus may be considered as everywhere pres- ent, but it is onl}' when they meet with favorable conditions that they flourish. There is little doubt that a cold and damp atmosphere is one of these. But a vine out of health, like an unhealthy animal, is predisposed to the attacks of parasites, both animal and fungoid. As 1870 was a hot and dry season, it is probable that R. E.'s vines suffered from want of water, a very common cause of mildew; though the opposite — as cold, wet borders — by weakening the consti- tution of the vine, will render it liable to be attacked. After the vines are pruned, let them be dressed with sul- phur, cla}^ and a little soft soap (4 oz. to the gallon of water will be enough of the latter), using soft water to mix them with. Let this be used of the thickness of thin paint, so as to cover the bark well over. As soon as the foli- age appears next season, dust "it well with sulphur, not waiting till mildew is seen before applying it; and repeat this application several times during the season, giving plenty of air, but keep- ing a warm, growing temperature. Be- fore the vine-mildew is apparent to the unassisted eye, the foliage of the vine may be serious!}^ injured, and the micro- scope will show the under side of a leaf covered by the mycelium of the fungus before its presence has been suspected. We use a machine, on the principle of a winnowing -machine, to dust a fine cloud over the vines when in a damp state; though every part is dusted, the quantity of sulphur is so small that it is hardly perceived. This is the only known remedy, and is always effectual. — Exchange. M. LoiSEAU recommends that the usu- al method for striking cuttings should be altered. "When, he observes, a cut- ting is put in perjDcndicularly, the sap, the natural tendency of which is to rise, is expended in pushing forward a new bud instead of forming a root. But if a cutting is laid horizontally, or even with its lower end higher than the up- Yier, that is not the case; the sap pre- fers to move toward the higher end, or at all events is evenly distributed be- tween the two extremities. This causes the callus to form so rapidly, that if the cuttings are put into a warm place eight or ten days are enough to secure its formation, or even that of the roots. Autumn cuttings taken off a little be- fore the sap ceases to move, and treated in this manner, form the callus so quickly that they are ready for planting out before winter. In winter it is nee- i:CT3a.';;..g;iii.i.:.iL-.aB.ra;riiErjin.-jmiBBmB*™ti ir-rmr-tf-.-^ ■- 260 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. essary to put in cuttings in a gentle heat, or beneath leaves deep enou^^h to keep oli' frost, and even then a callus will be found to have formed by spring i\me.— Gardeners' Chronicle. A BARREL of flour wcighs one hundred and ninety-six pounds; a barrel of rice, six hundred pounds; a keg of powder, twenty-five pounds; a firkin of butter, fifty-six pounds; a tub of butter, eighty- four pounds. The following are sold by weight, per bushel: Wheat, beans, and clover -seed, sixty pounds; corn, rye. and flaxseed, fifty-five pounds; buck- wheat, fifty-two pounds; barley, forty- eight pounds; coarse salt, eighty -five pounds. — Exchange. A New Fodder. — We want new grasses in California now that irrigation is be- ginning to interest us. They are now introducing into Great Britain what is called the prickly comfrey, a native grass of the Caucasus. It yields, in several cuttings, thirty tons to the acre. The grass is propagated from the roots and is perennial. Cattle eat it readily and thrive upon it. There is reason to believe that it will suit our climate. For Preserving Garden Stakes, — A correspondent of the Countrij Gentleman considers the following the best way for preserving garden stakes made of pine: Boil the parts which are to be set in the ground for a short time in water to which blue vitriol has been added in the proportion of two pounds to the gallon. After long use they will be found as sound as the day they were made, while other stakes prepared Avith coal tar have failed. Ant's Nests in Gardens. — F. M. G., in Nature, says: I have found a very ef- fectual remedy for the annoyance of ants nesting in the garden paths and borders. A strong solution of carbolic acid and water poured into the holes, kills all the ants it touches, and the survivors immediately take themselves off. Care must be taken in its use, as it destro3's animal and vegetable as well as insect life. A Substitute for Glass. — Take equal parts of ale and linseed oil and four ounces of white resin (mix some sugar of lead with some of the oil), then mis the whole together, and wash i:)lain calico with the composition, it will be found to resist the action of the weather for a long- time. METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, For the Month Ending July 31st, 1873. (Prepared for The Horticulturist by Thos. Tesuent, Mathematical Instrument and Chronometer-maber, No. 508 Battery Street (opjjoHite the Custom-house.) BAROMETER. Mean height at 9 a.m 30.06^in. do 12 m '....30.06 do 3p.m 30.0.5 do 6p.m 30.04 Greatest height, on the 24th at 9 a.m 30.17 Least height, on the 1st at C p. m 29.86 THERMOMETER. [In the shade and free from rfflected heat.) Mean height at 9 a. m .58° do 12m 6i" do 3 P.M 64° do 6p.m 00° Greatest height, on the 20th at 12 m , 7.5'^ Least height, on the 11th at 9 a.m 54^ SELF - REGISTERING THERMOMETER. Moan height during the night » 44"^ Greatest height, on night of 15th 48"^ Least height, on night of 1st 38° WINDS. North and north-west on 3 days; south and south-west on 9 days; west on 19 days. WEATHER, Clear on 10 days; variable on 16 days; cloudy on 5 days. RAIN GAUGE. July 22d 0.02 inches. July 28th 0.01 Total 0.03 " iy ''T Tiyi Tir — ALEXANDER ESTELL PICKENS BORDEN * STATION .READING^ dixon\ HOLMES r^ "III''-, -. MILLERTONJ Alandru W**^ APPLE JARTHS RA SICH 43,0( 0 Acreo IVaf fons Ferry to Fresno I • Idorseyv I 1 RANCri ^•HAWTHORN ^^STATION TULLOCK'S SHEEP RANCH Map showing Irrigation 4 '^'oHv" ,^..^ Canals in Fresno County, Cal. T M E AND FLORAL MAGAZINE. Vol. til SEPTEMBER, 1873. m. 9. LILY OF THE VALLEY— (CON V ALL ARIA). BY F. A. MILLEE. "The Lily of the Valley" is one of those popular tuberous -rooted jDlants which are so rarely met with in our gar- dens or conservatories, and in almost all cases where its cultivation has been undertaken on this coast, it proved a failure. This is not very encouraging, and the question arises, what has been the cause of this want of success? To cultivate the Lily of the Valley in the open air may present difficulties which are not easily overcome, but I see no reason why we should not have them in our conservatories in their full glory. The Lily of the Valley in its native country grows under the shade of trees, in the woods and forests, and produces its beautiful white bells in the month of May, filling the air with its delight- ful fragrance. The weather then is mild and warm, the atmosphere is filled with moisture, in just such a climate as we experience in California during our pleasant winter months; and this is an indication that even in the open air, in sheltered and shady places, the Lily of the Valley could be grown successfully with us. The greatest mistakes have been made in not giving it a proper Vol. III.— 34. place, and in expecting too much of the young and weak roots which have been from time to time imported, and have arrived here in a very doubtful condi- tion. In Europe, the Lily of the Valley is offered in the market in two different conditions : in clumps and in buds. The strongest roots, of course, are the so - called clumps, which are rarely brought to this coast. These would undoubtedly do much better here for out-of-door culture, if proper shelter, shade, and moisture were given to them; while the buds would answer the pur- pose of conservatory culture. We generally receive the roots from- abroad in autumn, and if they are in- tended for the conservatory, green- house, or window, I would suggest the following points for observation. In purchasing buds, select those which present a full and roundish top or sprout, as these only can be expected to flower during the coming season. Five or six of these may be planted in one five or six inch pot. If pots can be obtained of more than ordinary dejDth they will be preferable. The soil should be of a light and porous nature, othez*- wise its quality does not matter much; the best and most convenient soil would 2G2 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. be two-tbiixls of light and sandy loam and one -third of old manure and leaf mold. Plant the roots deep enough to cover the tops with soil. Water them well, and then sink tlie pots up to the rim in a shady and sheltered j^hice in the open air; if the pots can be sunk in sand it will answer the purpose best. Over the surface place a thick layer of moss, which is apt to keep the roots warmer and also retain the moisture without being compelled to water fre- quently'; a light sprinkling once a week will keep the roots suflficientlj' moist. As soon as the young shoots make their appearance, those which are expected to flower first may be taken into the conservatory or into the house. The growth and development of the plants may now be much encouraged by plac- ing a flower-pot loosely filled with moss uj)-side down, over each, and closing up the hole. In about three weeks, the covering pots should be removed. The foliage will present a yellow appearance, but on being exposed to the light will soon attain its fresh green color. In four to six weeks the Lily of the Val- ley wdll have produced its charming flowers. The plants while growing should be placed close to or under the glass, kept well shaded, and liberally supplied with water. Clumps of the Lily of the Valley may be treated similarly, if used for con- servatory or window culture, but if in- tended for the open ground, they should be planted at once in a warm, sheltered, and shady place, and the surface cov- ered with a layer of moss. Through- • out the mild regions of California they imay be expected to flower in the open :air in Mai'ch and April. There are now several varieties of the Lily of the Valley under cultivation. The oldest and most popular is the Coti- vallaria majalls, (Maiblume, May-lily), a native of Germany; of tliis, the fol- lowing varieties are known: Conv. maj., Jlore plena, producing double flowers. Conr. niaj., var. cdha manjina/a, the foliage of which is bordered with white. Conv. maj., Jlore roseo, with rose-col- ored flowers, single. Co)ir. mnj., flare rosea ])lena, same as above, but the flowers are double. We also hear of the Conv. inuUifiora, a taller and more shrubby - growing species. Canv. pobjganatum (Solomon's Seal), similar in habit to the former. By following the above method for the greenhouse culture of the Lily of the Valley, it may be had in bloom at almost any time during our win- ter months. All the varieties may be treated alike, and plunged in the open ground, and can then be taken into the house in succession, as they are requir- ed. After flowering, the^^ may be put out of the way under the shelves of the greenhouse, or in a shady place in the garden, where they will not require any further attention until they are wanted again the coming year. HOW TO GROW POND LILIES. A Reading, Pennsylvania, lad}' gave the following directions for growing the white Water Lily — the common Pond Lily of our small inland lakes: The roots, having been procured in the fall, were kept damp during the winter in flower-pots. In the spring a tub was made by sawing a substantial barrel in two; this was set on brick feet, out of doors, and one-thii'd filled with garden soil, sand, and well rotted manure. The roots were planted in this mixture and covered. Water was added in small quantities, and at intervals of a THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 2G3 cluy or two — but so gently as not to disturb the earth — until the tub was full. Very soon the handsome round leaves, four or five inches in diam- eter, made their appearance and filled the tub. The loss of water by evapo- ration was made good from time to time, and ere long the blossoms ap- peared, delighting everyone with their beauty. When winter approached,, the water was allowed to dry oft' almost entirely, and the tub and contents put into the cellar and watered at long intervals. In the spring, the roots were separated, and about half the increase returned to the same tub, in a fresh mixture of earth. They were brought out earlier than be- fore (about April 1), and blossomed more profusely. The flowers were as perfect as the Camellia, and delightfully fra.- grant; closing at night and re-opening in the morning, as is the habit of Water Lilies. The blooms were about two inches in diameter — not quite as large as some of the specimens in the pond from which the roots were taken, but ecpally beautiful and fragrant. But, unless nurserymen can supply orders for the roots of this lily, it would be interesting to those proposing to cul- tivate it to, know how to get a supply of the stock. They grow generally in deep water, where only amphibious creatures can be expected to operate; while to build a coffer-dam on purpose to get the roots would hardly paj*. Who can suggest a way for surmounting these practical diflSculties ? It is stated that by a careful analysis it has been found that ajjples contain a larger amount of phosphorus, or brain food, than any other fruit or vegetable, and on this account they are very im- jDortant to sedentary men, who work their brains rather than their muscles. They also contain the acids which are in need every day, especially for sedentary men, the action of whose liver is sluo-- gish, to eliminate effete matters, which, if retained in the system, produce inac- tion of the brain, and, indeed, of the whole system, causing jaundice, sleepi- ness, scurvy, and troublesome diseases of the skin.. WEEDS. [Continued from page 237.] Much attention has been paid to the distribution of j^lauts in various coun- tries, and let me cite one place of study, because the facts are interesting, as showing how hard it is to actually eradi- cate weeds, and also how slowly changes sometimes take place in them. At Montpelier, in South France, there is an old university, and nearly 300 years ago a botanic garden was founded. From that time to this, it has been a place where plants have been studied, both in the gardens and in the fields. It was then an old region; that is, it had been in cultivation for many centuries. Catalogues of all the plants found in the vicinity, good, bad, and indifferent, were made out. Successive botanists have studied and written on the matter. The great Linnaeus went there to bota- nize. So the ground has been gone over again and again, and the plants noted. The present professor of botany there has, within a few j^ears, examined it over again, and published the results. Each century there were efforts to bring in new plants. In the seventeenth, many were planted; again in the eight- eenth century, again in this. Two botanists have left records of 900 for- eign species that w^ere planted in the places where it was believed they might 20 1 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. live without man's care. But it can not be seen that a single one of the whole 900 grows there without man's care and cultivation. Then, again, many plants are culti- vated in the botanic garden. Have any of these escaped cultivation? Very few, indeed. Some grew for a time as weeds, within the grounds, and two or three species became naturalized outside, but none of them as troublesome weeds. Again; in the vicinity there is a port in the Mediterranean where foreign wools are washed and dried. The drying grounds where the wool is spread have been watched by the botanists for more than half a century. The total number of foreign plants coming up there from seeds brought in the wool amounts to 468 kinds. They came from Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and both the Americas. Of all this number, only one has become established, and I do not understand that it is troublesome, yet many of them were weeds where the sheep originally pastured. Weeds of cultivation, as they are called, exist there, as they do every- where; but they are mostly of the kinds that have been there from very ancient times. Of those known three centuries ago, 2iot one is extinct there now. Man has fought them for that time — is fight- ing them still, but they are not eradi- cated. Checked they may be, but they are not exterminated. Five sj^ecies of plants have become extinct, but none were weeds. And what have been the additions during this time ? These are limited to six species; five of them from America are common now in the vine- yards round about the place. Here we have a land, cultivated continuously since the days of the old Roman Em- pire. All these centuries man has been fighting weeds — hoeing, pulling, weed- ing, in that land of vineyards ; and for three Inmdred years, at least, he has not absolutely exterminated a single noxious weed. Their relative numbers may have changed, but he is still bravely fighting the same foes that his ancestors have fought all these many generations. He may subdue them, but not entirely conquer them. And, in the meantime, a few fresh ones have been added to his fields, to give him more variety. I have seen other cases where certain foreign weeds were established slowly, or at least spread slowly. I have seen weeds near Mannheim, in western Germany, left by the Russian army in 1812-13, where they followed Napoleon in his famous retreat. I vis- ited the locality forty- three years later ; the Cossack weeds were there still, but had not spread widely. Not so, how- ever, here. Since I have been to this meeting, I have heard that the Ox-eyed Daisy was left in this (Fairfield) county by the British soldiers in the Revolu- tion, and here it will doubtless remain as long as the republic lasts, perhaps longer. And visually, if a foreign weed spreads at all, it spreads rapidly. Egypt, a land cultivated we know not how long, has its old weeds. It is probable that the Egyptians of to-day are fighting some of the •same species that the children of Israel had to dig and pull before the days of Moses, and which Egyptian slaves cursed even earlier. Put Agreements in "Writing. — How many misunderstandings arise from the loose wa^s in which business matters are talked over, and when each party puts his own construction on the con- versation, the matter is dismissed by each, with the words: "All right; all right." Frequently it turns out all wrong, and becomes a question for law- yers and the courts. More than three- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 265 fourths of the litigation of the country would be saved if people would put down their agreements in writing and sign their names to it. Each word in our language has its peculiar meaning, and memory may, by the change of its position in the sentence, convey an en- tirely different idea from that intended. "When once reduced to writing, ideas are fixed, and expensive lawsuits are saved. — Ame}-ican Rural Home. FOEil AND OUTLINE OF CEETAIN OLD TEEE3, SHRUBS, EVERGEEENS, ETC. BT E. J. HOOPEK. Without presuming to rival the pow- ers of the painter, perhaps it may not be altogether inappropriate in the Hor- TictXTCRisT to point out the peculiar character possessed by some of our old trees, evergreens, shrubs, etc., with reference to their aptitude or eligibility for adorning parks, ornamental grounds, etc., as we commonly find them. First, then, of the Cedar of Leba- non, and the Yew (whose character of growth is somewhat similar); neither of them shrubs, however, but real trees. "What style and outline ! What words can express them. Dignified, massive, graceful ! How important these trees anywhere; but more especially in buri- al grounds, and in the vicinity of architectural structures. Then again, by way of contrast, let us look at the old Lombardy Poplar. I am aware that painters do not scatter the form of this tree (as some do similar forms of the Eucalt/pti tribe) over their can- vas at random ; but, there are cases when, for the sake of powerful contrast, they are fain to seek its aid. But we must recollect that we can not be con- fined strictly to the laws of painting, in making comparisons, however correct the principles. We jnust remember this one thing — all important — that we can not walk "in and out, and round about," as the poet says ; we can not walk about the picture or painting as we walk about the pleasure - ground, eveiy step bringing fresh associations and aspects ; and surely this is a rea- son for departing occasionally from the painter's ideas. This, indeed, is an impoi'tant consideration at all times ; and thus we find that persons imbued with good taste and some exj)erience do not choose to judge from one point of view, nor yet even from a second ; but pace up and down, considering the bearing of tl is or that feature from various points of view. Although the Lombardy Poplar, and like shaped ti-ees, as used for contrast of form against the flat or horizontal lines of the Yew and Cedar of Lebanon, are of much value, yet they are meddlers with land- scape, and can not be allowed to spring up anywhere. Taey need placing, if we may so term it. Let us consider the old Holly, of time -honored memory. Setting aside Christmas associations, as chieli}' ob- served in Europe and in the eastern part of the United States, Avhat a fine thing a well -grown, good -sized Holly- tree is — or a large Holly-bush, if you will. Most of my eastern readers, at least, have seen a huge woodland Holly; bold in outline, massive, dark, and rich — a match for the most imperious storm. We want time in CaUfornia for such things. On seeing such, we feel assured that a century would be no particular consideration vrith such a fine old fellow. And of what import- ance in our parks, cemeteries and shrub- beries are trees and shrubs of such character of growth and thick, glossy foliage. Take, indeed, the Holly and its associate form in many other trees 266 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTLEIST. and evergreens, from the pleasure- grounds of both Europe and America, and one-half their dignity is destroyed at once. Another fine and most elegant ever- green I may jjoint to — the Hendock Spruce, or Abies Canadensis. No tree can boast of more grace and elegance than this ; it is one huge waving plume, from the summit to the very turf. It delights in a rather naturally damp, and partially, if possible, shaded situation, and loves a soil somewhat unctuous and adhesive — if of a dark character, so much the better. Fortunately, in Cal- ifornia, we have some fine Australian and other evergreens of this nature and shape, in some resj)ects. The Deciduous Cypress, too, is a most elegant tree, when in foliage, although ■when in a leaf-denuded state it is a most pitiful affair ; but there is an airy ele- gance about the foliage which not many other shrubs possess. It is more like some Tree-fern than any other shrub. And the old Stag's-horn Sumach is a fine figure of a tree, when it has at- tained any size. The foliage is boldly pinnated, and the marking of the whole outline very sharp and lively. The blossom, moreover, has a very handsome effect ; of a dull, rather deep red ; and it is a free bloomer Avhen comparative- ly young. The Red Cedar is a fine tree, of the spiry, or what may, perhaps, be call- ed the columnar class. I have seen them more than thirty feet in height, clothed from the soil to the summit, and as compact as a column. A finer object can scarcely be seen. Our young Giant Sequoias, wherever they have space, are assuming this shape and ap- jiearance, but their foliage is not quite so dense. The old China Arbor-vitte has a most dis'nified efi'ect when it attains some size, and is grown compact. The Ilex is a tree of very grave, sombre, and massive appearance, and it succeeds well in California — as what does not? There are no lutrd winters here to break up its character, if. not totally to de- stroy it. Neither has the Red Cedar, nor the Ilex, nor, in fact, any other of our numerous hardy or tender ever- greens in this State, any snows, except in the high mountains, to make sad havoc with them when they get old, as they do in the East. The Deodar is a tree which is now, like many others, becoming thorough- ly domesticated among us. Few gai*- dens but possess Deodars. To speak of its extreme gracefulness is almost su- i^erfluous ; it is praised by all. It may not possess the stern dignity of the Ce- dar of Lebanon ; it has, however, such intrinsic merits, irresj)ective of all asso- ciations, that it may claim a kind of pre-eminence on that score alone. Only observe what sharp etchings it produces as a sk^'-line. What other tree can give the same effect ? Another class of i^lants I would here point to, as of much imi^ortance in or- namental scenery. I mean the Yucca family. The Yucca gloriom is, perhaps, the most highly esteemed ; and a finer object when in blossom can hardly be conceived. It is majestic, bold, and even grand. The Irish Yew is another most distinct and significant tree, wherever stiff formality or deep con- trast is desired. And then its color is so good ; perhaps one of the dark- est shades of green we possess. It is a strange affair that the Syca- more, which, when young, is the most common-place tree imaginable, should, when old, become so very picturesque. When 3'oung it is a mere lean stripling; but as it attains age it becomes gath- ered in bold masses, and the general THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. outline carries most marked indenta- tions. But the same may l)e said of tlie Scotch Fir, and indeed of some other trees. Many more trees might be pointed out, but space will not permit. But if some of our old shrubs, evergreens, and trees will bear high commendations, what shall we say of all the new ac- cessions to our list iu California from all parts of the world, and nearly all doing admirably well? Look at the Conifers alone — a host in themselves. But I do not think it invidious to mix up these older acquaintances v,-ith mod- ern introductions. I would fain have their due meed of merit awarded to them, and that, too, in the very pres- ence of their most formidable rivals, who, no doubt, want to push them off their pedestals. If the reader wishes to see specimens of many fine and various shrubs and ev- ergreens, both native and foreign, of excellent forms, in fine health and well- grown, I would direct his attention to the public grounds of Mr. R. Nolan, and Mr. W. F. Kelsey, in Oakland, and the private garden of Mr. James Otis, Sutter Street, San Francisco. HEDGES, OE LIVE FENCES. Many species of plants have been pressed into the service, to do duty as apologies for hedge-rows in small as well as around large gardens in the colony, and not a few attempts have resulted in utter failure, while numerous instances of verj' partial success occasionally meet the eye in suburban as well as in more remote districts. But where can one see anything approaching to the luxu- riant and well-kept hedges of old En- gland? Does not the Hawthorn thrive in this climate splendidly, and grow luxuriantly, with its white pearly blos- soms and its fragrant i^erfume? First and foremost, then, may be placed the White Thorn as apo^iular hedge-plant ; it stands without a rival for such a pur- pose, and requires cutting. only once a year, whereas other substitutes need no end of attention — such as the Acacia lopliantha, which impoverishes the soil wlierever it is planted. Acacia armata, or prickly Acacia, has been largely pat- ronized, but it has a tendency to get patchy and bare, and now presents a very sorrowful aspect around many a country and suburban garden. The Arbor-vitae, when duly attended to, does much better. The New Zealand Piffo- spo7-um eugeniodes forms a very beauti- ful garden hedge, and bears clipping remarkably well. The various kinds of Cypress, such as erecta, toridom, hor- izontalis, and Lamherliana, as well as the Olive and Ceanothus, have all been used with more or less success, accord- ing as attention has been bestowed upon their cultivation. The common Furze forms a capital live fence, but as it gets very dry, and susceptible of easy ignition when a little old, it is rather a dangerous subject to deal with in this hot climate. Then there are the Privets, deciduous and evergreen, which make a very beautiful and ornamental fence ; the Cape and Pricklj' Broom are also used for such a jDurpose, as well as the Chinese EnonymaH japoiiica?, and varie- gatas, which also stand clipping well. The famous Osage Orange (Jladura aiLrantiaca) and Gleditschia, both from America, form fine strong hedges — many preferring the former to the Haw- thorn. Certainly the Osage Orange makes a ver}' substantial fence. Biw- saria spinosa, a native of this colony, which flowers in January, is a very pretty ornamental shrub, and adapted for a garden hedge. As already stated, however, there is 268 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. no plant like the Thorn so snitable for forming a hedge, and not only for siuall gardens, but boundary fences for fields, and forest plantations. It takes well "with richly prepared soil, and amply re- pays any extra labor in the due pro2:)a- ration of the ground for their reception, which ought to be well trenched, and incorporated with a good supply of well decomposed manure. Any quantity of young seedlings can be obtained at the nurseries, but thx'ee-year-olds, twice transjDlanted, having fibrous roots, may be relied on as very satisfactory. "When put in about six inches apart in the hedge-row, and headed down to with- in two inches from the ground, the fol- lowing season numerous shoots will have burst forth. The ei'ect mode of planting is preferable to the horizontal method, so commonly pursued in the old country. For a couple of years the plants may be left to their natural growth, but the third season brings round the trimming process, which may then afterward be pursued according as the will of the practitioner may sug- gest. The most usual form adopted is the wedge shape, being by far much more easily performed with the hedge-bill than the other modes that sometimes find favor. It is of paramount import- ance, in order to be successful, to see that the ground is always kept in good order on either side of the hedge. In former times, the blooming Hawthorn was suspended from every English door on the first morning of May, being brought in from the woods with much ceremonial pomp ; but, as such a cus- tom had its origin in the siaperstitious rites that the heathen paid to Flora, our reforming forefathers almost " stamped out" May gatherings, and other kindred sports, then so popular amongthe people. — Australian Town and Country. THE COCKSPUR THORN. Englishmen who settle in this coun- try naturally wish to have Hawthorn hedges, and those of our countrymen who have seen the "quick" hedges abroad, or have read of their beauty, become inpressed with the idea that the Hawthorn is the proper hedge -plant. When these enthusiasts try the Haw- thorn hedge they are sadly disappoint- ed. It puts out its leaves late and drops them early; under our hot suns the leaves soon get a burnt and rusty appearance; and worst of all, they find the hedge attacked by all the insects that infest the Apple, Pear, and related trees. In our climate the Hawthorn — so identified with English rural scenery, and so interwoven thi-ough English lit- erature— is practically useless. We are far from commending any Thorn as a hedge-plant, but there is no one of the large genus so well adaj^ted to the use as the Cockspur Thorn. This is an in- digenous shrub or small tree, found from Canada to the Gulf, and extending west of the Mississippi. As ordinarily met with, it is a shrub, but under favor- able conditions it forms a handsome round-headed tree fifteen or twenty feet high. It is distinguished from other species by the exceeding neatness of its habit. The leaves are obovate — broad- est toward the extremity— varying con- siderably in shajDe, sen-ated on the edges except near the base, very thick, bright and shiny above, and conspicu- ously veined l)elow. The flowers are in clusters of from two to six in a simple corymb, and are larger than in most of our native species. They are succeed- ed by a small bright red fruit. The thorns of this species are slender, and from two to two and a half inches long. There are several native forms that have received names as species from the ear- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 269 lier botanists, and a number of garden varieties have been produced in Europe, some of which are only about two feet high. "While we do not advise the use of this or any other Thorn as a hedge- plant, we can commend it as an orna- mental shrub or tree, and it bears clip- ping as well as the other species. As is the case with other native and foreign Thorns, the seeds of this do not germi- nate until the second year. — American AgricuUurid. ODOES OF FLOWEKS. Much of the importance attached to flowers b_y people generally, says the Pacific Rural Press, is owing to the odors they exhale. The Rose has long been cultivated by amateurs, no less for its grateful fragrance than for its beau- ties of form and color ; and those which combine these qualities are the favored objects of the florist's care. The cause of the odors of plants is, no doubt, the disengagement of a volatile oil, which, in some cases, is easily obtained, and made subservient to the use of man; in others it entirely eludes every effort to confine or preserve it, being as eva- nescent as light, which is the agent of its production. No one can go into the country in those places where vegetation of many kinds is abundant, without having the olfactory nerves excited and refreshed by the odors of thousands of plants, leaves and flowers. These odors are considered most health-bearing, and full of ozone. This is like continually in- haling the scents of a colossal and natu- ral bouquet. The fragrance is all around us. We enjoyed this especially lately, in a visit back of Saucelito about nine miles, near the ocean, in Marin County. Odors are distinguished into perma- VoL. III.— 35. nent, fugitive, and inlermillenl. Perma- nent odors are such as are inclosed in the tissue of the wood and bark of plants in a concentrated form ; and, cither from being slightly volatile, or contained in close vessels which prevent exhalation, they remain for a long time, giving to the organs in which they are contained their peculiar odor. There is, probably, no part of a vegetable ab- solutely destitute of permanent odor. Every variety of wood, under certain circumstances, exhibits it. AYe found this nearly general in smelling the specimens of Dr. Stivers' collections of the woods of the coast, as well as his foreign specimens. Some of these woods, nearly scentless otherwise, be- come strongly odorous when rubbed or heated. The Pine, Oak, Redwood, Beech, and Cedar, are striking examples of this kind. Others are odorous for a long time after being cut, under ordi- nary circumstances; of this kind are the Rosewood of Teneriffe, the Cedar, and Sandalwood {Santalum Albinn) of India, so highly esteemed in Eastern Asia for its fragrance. The slight volatility of the oil to which these species owe their odors, and the compactness of the wood, enable them constantly to yield their fragrance for an indefinite length of time. Most visitors to this coast notice how remarkable and pleasant are the odors of the wood with which the cases of libraries, etc., are made. Some woods are fragrant when first cut, but lose this property in a very short time, as is the case with Cinnamon and Cassia, the fragrant substances be- ing volatile and the wood porous; both causes concurring to render the wood in a short time scentless. Fugitive odors are such as belong to organs of short duration, as the leaves and flowers. AVe have been in the 270 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. South during the season of the bloom of Magnolias, when the woods and swamps were j^erfumed by the odor of their flowers. This odor is but little during the direct action of the midday sun, but at sunset, when there is dew, the air is loaded with their fragrance. A shower produces similar effects. Intcrmillcnt odors are such as are given off at particular times; and the plants which yield them are entirely destitute of such odors at other times. Many Orchidacias are perfectly scentless during the day, but during the night are fragrant. A remarkable example of this class of odors is exhibited by the Cacalia sepierdrioUs, which, it is said, emits a strong aromatic odor only when the sun shines. The Night-bloom- ing Cereus gives out flashes or pufl's of perfume, as its intermittent odors are called. Many other cases we might cite of similar singular phenomena, which would properly come under this head. Odors have been classed, from their similarity of effect on the human sj's- tem, into aromatic, stimulating, i:)ene- trating, and sweet, but the difficulty of fixing definite limits to the application of these terms renders the classification of little use. It is observed that white flowers are most odoriferous and agreeable, the yellow and brown most disagreeable. Ammonia for Verbenas. — The sidphate of ammonia is an excellent manurial liquid to apply to Verbenas, or any oth- er flower, giving to the foliage a dark green, luxuriant and healthy appear- ance. It is economical, clean, and eas- ily applied. Prepare it in the evening before using, by dissolving one ounce of ammonia in two gallons of water. It may be applied once a week. Indigo Culture. — Indigo was once a most impf)rtant crop in South Carolina, and proved equally prolific in Louisiana. Enough might undoubtedly be raised in the United States to supply the home market. Some Indigo produced at Baton Rouge was pronounced to have been equal to the best Caraccas, which sells at one dollar per pound, and experience has i:)roved that one acre of ground there will yield sixty pounds ; that it requires only from July to October for cultivating it, and that there is not con- nected with it one-third of the expense or time that is generally rec[uired for the cultivation of Cotton. The i^lant is somewhat like a fein when grown, and when young is hardly distinguishable from the lucerne grass ; its leaves in general are pinnated, and terminated by a single lobe; the flowers consist of five leaves, and are of the papilonaceous kind, the uppermost j^etal being longer and rounder than the rest, and slightly furrowed on the side ; the lower ones are short and end in a point; in the middle of the flower is formed the style, which afterward becomes a pod containing the seeds. — Raral New Yorker, Watermelon Vinegar. ---Perhaps it is not generally known that a fine white vinegar can be made from the juice of "Watermelons. AVe had a large quantity of melons last season, and, after we had cut out their crimson cores for eating, scraped the shells, from which we gained a large-amount of juice. This we care- fully strained, and put into jugs with small glass bottles in their mouths. We set the jugs out into the sun, and in time had a fine-flavored, clear, strong, white vinegar. The vinegar at a certain stage will be very bitter; but, when perfected, loses this, and acquires true vinegar taste. — American Agriculturid. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 271 PEACH FUNGUS. BT DK. J. SIRENTZEL. Two years ago, iu the orchards along the Sacramento River, was first observ- ed the extended growth of a new fungus or lichen on Peach-trees, covering the fruit in ash-colored blotches, and the ends of growing shoots in detached masses, spreading from a cottony tuft of a growing germ. The leaves on the affected part drop off later in the sea- son, and the end of the shoot generally dries uj). The growth of the fruit is not apparently checked, but the thin- skinned varieties, on ripening, get a puckered-up, pocky, disgusting appear- ance. The earlier varieties are most affected; the yellow, among them the Crawford, not so much. None was no- ticed on the Snow Peach. The present year the disease has aiDpeared in an ex- tended circle, and is causing a greater injury to the fruit. It is not pretended to assign a cause for this anomalous growth, beyond that the peculiar atmospheric condition was favorable to its rapid development. The trees may have been also depleted of vitality, or this having been an unpro- pitious year for the " curled Peach-leaf" the superabundant sap found a new parasitic consumer. But it can be rea- sonably hoped, that some of the usual means employed for the destruction of kindred growths, will be serviceable in this case. That the disease will cer- tainly spread to all parts of California can be fully apprehended. The losses thus incurred would be severe to horti- culturists. Thus it is of importance that every experience should be brought to public knowledge, and every means of extermination at once tried. The burning of the pruned off-shoots should be rigidly followed; the ground around the trees scraped and limed, and the whole orchard rejieatedly fumigated, early in spring, in favorable weather, by keeping up numerous smoldering fires of sj^ent taubark, or damp straw mixed with asphaltum or coal-tar. These are the most available means for i the destruction not only of varieties of mildew, but also of innumerable nox- ious insects. NEW FEUIT-DRYIXG PK0CE33. Fruit-drying has been carried on to some extent, both iu Santa Clara and other counties, during the last year, and jiromises at no distant day to be- come a most important industry. In some places the fruit is dried by mean s of artificial heat ; in others, by the heat of the sun. In the neighborhood of Santa Clara may be seen an apparatus fitted up for drying fruit by artificial heat. On the premises is a steam-en- giue of fifteen horse-power, used for sawing lumber for boxes, for grinding apples for vinegar, and for other pur- poses connected with fruit - packing. Close to the engine is a wooden cylin- der about five feet long and three and a half feet in diameter. In the cylinder, placed in close proximity to one another, are six hundred brass tubes, into which the air is forced by a fan worked by the steam-engine. The waste steam from the engine is conveyed by a pipe into the top of the cylinder, and, after be- coming condensed, runs out at the bot- tom, heating, in the mean time, the air in the brass tubes. The heated air rushes out at the other end of the cylin- der, and enters the bottom of what looks like a large chest of drawers, thirty-two feet long, ten feet high, and seven feet wide. This is the kiln. The kiln is divided into eight compartments, into which are fitted galvanized iron screens for holding the fruit. There 272 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. are in each compartment forty -two screens, on each of which twenty pounds of fruit can be dried. In the face of the kiln there are several horizontal doors placed one over the other, so that in handling the screens only a small portion of the kiln is exposed to the cold air. The kiln is capable of drying over three tons of fruit at once. Some of the fruit, preparatory to drying, is cut by hand, but more by niachinerj'. Apples dry in seven hours ; pears, to- matoes, and plums, in eight or nine hours. Grapes require about twenty- four hours. The process could be com- pleted more rapidly, but the result would not be so satisfactory as Avhen sufficient time is allowed. It takes about seven pounds of apples, seven pounds of pears, twenty pounds of to- matoes, six i^ounds of plums, and five pounds of blackberries to make one pound of each kind of dried fruit. During last year were prepared and sold at this establiskment 12,0CO pounds of dried pears, H,000 pounds of dried ajoples, 3,000 pounds of dried plums, and a large quantity of grapes, blackben-ies, and other fruits. Sent East by rail were forty-four car-loads, each contain- ing 17,5U0 pounds of fruit. Some of this was purchased from other fruit- growers. According to a fruit-grower who dries his fiuit in tLe sun, from four to seven pounds of plums will make one pound dry. The process of drying lasts from four to ten days, and the estima- ted cost amounts to three cents for each pound of dried frnit. It is sold in San Francisco for twenty-five cents a pound. The grapes dried by this pro- cess in different parts of the State were exhibited last year at the agricultural fairs, and were, in general estimation, superior to the imported raisins. The quantity of lumber required on which to dry the fruit is considered the great- est impediment to the success of this process. In some places the grapes are dried on the vine. This process is carried on in the interior valleys, where they have little dew or fog, and where the thermometer ranges from 80 to 115 degrees. Though no one of the per- sons engaged in fruit-drying has had much experience to guide him, yet the results are highly encouraging. — From Overland Monthly for September, Irrigation. — TJie San Joaquin Valley Argus, in speaking of the advantages of irrigation, says: We rode over a portion of the country on the west side of the San Joaquin River recently, and had an opportunity of seeing the advantages of irrigation, by comparing the sterile waste on one side with the lands on the opjiosite side of the great canal, which were under the fertilizing influence of the abundance of moisture aiforded. The lands irrigated have given to the thrifty farmers an abundant harvest of wheat, or are covered with growing and maturing crops of corn, alfalfa, vege- tables, and fruits in great variety and abundance, making the people's homes attractive and the ijeo^fle themselves contented and happy. The Canal Com- pany having made terms with the farm- ers in the valley below the present terminus of the canal at Los Bafios, are preparing to extend their great work down through the valley to the Point of Timbers, and will soon have a heavy force engaged in enlarging the channel at the upper end and reducing the fall so as to make the canal available for navigation as well as irri"-ation. Rye flour boiled in water, with a little alum added while boiling, makes an ad- hesive paste almost as strong as glue. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 273 VALUE OF PLANTING ORNAMENTAL TREES AND SHRUBS IN HOME GROUNDS. The question of actual profit in dol- lars and cents, in planting- ornamental trees and shrubbery, is not to be so ex- actly shown as it has been with fruit trees, yet there is a vast profit herein, not limited to the immediate advantage of the planter or purchaser of the prop- ert}' so embellished. Who can have failed to note that when a piece of real estate is ofiered for sale, its ornamental trees and plants (if well selected and in good culture) always add a charm, which finds recognized value in the in- creased price paid by the buyer? Is there no profit in planting and caring for good trees and plants for ornament? Every farm and orchard, every street and highwa}', every public square, park, or cemetery, needs its ornamental plant- ing, and all property adjicant is in- creased in value where it is done. On the farm, near the orchard and near the house, and on the highway, ornamental (not less than useful) screens of decidu- ous or evergreen trees, are more or less necessary (if Nature has not provided in advance) as protections from wind and storm. Any farm, orchard, or vineyard so protected will yield a larger annual return, and will come earlier into ripen- ing, and consequently the value of the property be increased. A dwelling em- bowered in trees, is manifestly more comfortable in all seasons of the year, and must be more healthful in conse- quence of the equalized temperature produced thereby, and of course en- hanced in value hx this important aid. It has become a common subject of remark and study — the influence of trees on climate and crops, as evinced by the destruction of our native forests by the woodman's axe. On the western prairies we now see forests and groves springing up, and carefully cultivated to protect farms and houses from the effect of storms and blighting hot winds, and to furnish timber and fuel. AVho can tell of the great increase of value to accrue from these young groves, and from the vast lines of beautiful hedges now growing up in the West, to take the place of unsightly fences ? Eveiy homestead requires its arbor of vines, its screens of evergreen trees, and its beautiful hedge-rows, for the seclu- sion they afford, and to keep out of sight objects not proper to admit to the pub- lic eye. Every porch, and every ap- proach to the home, claims the grate- ful shade of some over-ai'ched tree, or the welcoming smiles of plants, of beau- tiful foliage, and fragrant flowers. The healthful effects and profits of the various fruits of garden or field have their due importance, yet the sa- cred associations of home are bj no means complete till the inviting shades of beautiful trees and the sweet scents of many-tinted bushes and plants be- speak a regai'd for something beyond the pleasures of the palate or the profits of culture, and declare the bliss of con- tentment more precious than gold. The importance of our subject is not limited to the planter, or the owner of the premises ; it extends to the Avhole community. The constant, careful cul- ture of goodplunts, whether for fruit or ornament, can not fail to exercise a healthy influence on all in their vicini- ty, as regards both taste and morals. It leads to gentle thoughts and good purposes. The soothing and refining influence of spreading trees, of flower- ing shrubs with delicate odors, of grace- ful climbers with drooping festoons and intertwining tendrils, betoken home af- fection, home comfort, contentment; and must bear profit in inspiring deli- (.wmiffiMir. TMi|"tfw^i^»fw»n»ip - ■ ■ inch h** iHM?w xv many g«ii«?nitiouii. ^0 a^ot iu rtcn or dilute id upon » $ht^If iu Ahtt«.vst T-eii, or there is or earache, or - the camphor >- ^;♦^s . Mild ti»*^ fod-iniig member is well ( ' - . . - _ ^^jI ag-cnt, ^e of doing tti^Ai uijwiijrf. ic IS a matter of wonder y _ ._--....-,. ^-,f ijijurv result, , , . - spread empirical ( , - rht to this country ,„ ,. - state, and here it jji . .to the process of distil I a- iim. .--der it fit for employment. Ti*«"* ^"* several important refineries In tkia country, one of which is at Rum- ft^r, N. H. A correspondent of The Peaptf' presents the following interest- jmg facta regarding camphor and this Tftlinery : '•The camphor of commerce comes fram. Formosa, Sumatra, Borneo, Japan, -A It is obtained in crj'stal- •Iready formed, and also in llatiou. The tree which lor kind is a near rel- iwood. which we know j>«mI'\uu\i\^ tlje nil- •>i»wi IwNtvin' iti the F ' T.TTTHTftT. ■'h| !!i Borneo. It towers fhon A hundred feet, and known to obtain a girth of Tljn syurited persuasion of iif»w« fn>m tljis forest monster ' ^vhitf> trrasures secreted in longitu- : in its heart wood, some- . rarely, in a layer as large t\% nmuH arm, but more frequently in 'i frnginentH to be carefully extract- V Home sharp-pointed instrument. Itt not an abundant bearer. Twenty {>' ."dal ■•■*»- uyn^** *• soaebM h V liienntyifcj rr little psJsDBi til# sta;.t M:,': : c i- t ■ N.H U'.J^ : bela^u W favM ptia. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 275 and usually unattractive in appearance. The Dutch or Japan camphor is pre- pared in Batavia; is packed in tubs se- curely matted, is pinkish in hue, and coarser than the Chinese. Both kinds need purification before using. The Venetians first, and after- ward the Dutch, monopolized the labor and profit of refining it, for a long pe- riod, and it is onlj' of late years that other nations have succeeded in obtain- ing it in its crude state. Camphor is slightly soluble in water, but yields freely to alcohol, acetic acid, ether, and the essential oils. A pretty experiment may be tried with it which the young people will find amusing. Scatter a few pieces of clean camphor upon pure water, and the}' will whirl and sail about, keeping up the dance sometimes for hours. Drop among them some greasj' matter, and the mer- r}' little performers will stop on the in- stant. Milton Holden & Sons, of Rumney, N. H., have the only camphor refinery belonging to New England par-ties. There is one at Stamford, Ct., but it is owned in New York. There are two in New York city, and one in Philadel- phia. The loss in refining runs from eight to sixteen per cent. The firm now are employed by W. F. Weld & Co., of Boston, and refine from six to seven hundred pounds per diem. They have two large furnaces, the tops of which are covered with heavy iron plate, and about an inch of sand to regulate the heat. They have fifty -six square and thirty-eight round jxins, which are filled every morning, and in twenty -four hours are ready to be emptied. These have tin globe-shaped covers, with a tubular vent in the centre, and as the heat dissolves the camphor into a liquid, it rises in the form of vapor, and attach- es to the covers, the impurities falling to the bottom of the j)ans. It requires long experience to know just the amount of heat required so as to secure the purest article with the least loss. It requires about one-quarter of a cord of wood per day to run these fur- naces, a day's work averaging fifteen and a half hours. After cooling, the contents of the square pans, clear as crystal, are packed in boxes of one hun- dred pounds each, and those of the round ones into barrels carefully lined, and are then sent to market, and from thence into every dwelling in the land. AMONG THE EOSES. An ardent Rose lover, whose enthu- siasm bubbles over in glowing words, writes to the Canada Fanner, of some of his favorites : "A perfect little gem is Madame Alfred de Rougemont ; my first exi^erience in blooming this Rose was with it in a pot, and it was a most charming sight. I l^lanted it, however, in the oj^en ground, where it passed the last trying winter safely, without any protection; and has been and still is covered with its deli- cate and lovely roses. The wood and foliage are of a light green, the growth moderately stout, and with a free and graceful habit. The roses are small in size, quite double and full ; when new- ly opened they are most handsomely capped with white, with a delicate tint of flesh color, deeper towards the centre. It is a most abundant bloomer ; and though b}' no means showy, is yet ex- ceedingl}' attractive in its modest love- liness. For bou(juets in which light colors predominate, for wreathing the hair, or set singly for a looj) to gather flowing tresses, it is perfect. "Among the brilliant dazzling ones, I place in the foremost rank the Due 276 THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. de RoLau. Free and vigorous in babit, its leaves thick and massive, yet glossy in their dra-k green, the entire tree puts on the air of one of noble blood ; the roses are large, double and full, and when newly opened, are of a dark rich red brilliantly shaded with vermilion. The petals are of good substance, and have that rich velvet-like appearance which gives such fullness and depth to the glowing color. Apparently per- fectly hardy, and an abundant bloomer, it will take a commanding position in all our choicest collections. " Another of these dashy showy fel- lows is Lord Macaulay. One would hardly expect the staid old historian's name to have been handed down to coming time linked with such scarlet and crimson robes. But it is a lordly Rose, nevertheless, and seems likely to thrive well in this unaristocratic land of ours; never losing a bud through all the trying weather of the past winter, it pushed forth its stout, dark green shoots when tardy summer came at last, and clothed them with thick, leathery, shining leaves, which tell of blood. And then came the roses, large, full and showy; noble blooms, opening with a brilliant scarlet color which changes at length to a deep glowing crimson of rare richness and beauty. "But for queenly stateliness of habit and queenlike beauty, Madame La Bar- onne de Rothschild is peerless among the Roses. Others may blush with a more coy and maidenly grace, others may put on more gorgeous apparel and dazzle the eye with purple and scarlet, but she robes herself in glossiest satin, and draws around her the drapery of ample folds, dyed with richest yet most delicate peach-blow tints. The stout shoots, armed with ivory-like spines, have an air of matronly dignity, and the large, very large, handsomely cupped. stout-petaled roses, borne singly on the extremity of each shoot, and such a clear light satin rose, crown it with royal beauty. I do not wonder if Rose growers in England were wild with ex- citement over the advent of this Queen among Queens, and the Royal Horti- cultural Society awarded to her the highest certificate of merit. One thing I have noticed that is worth remember- ing: it bears the fierce heat of our July sun uncommonly well. "And what a charming Rose, in its stainless purity, is the Boule de Neige. The blooms are small, and in the esteem of some that may be counted a defect; but to' me its comparatively miniature size is one of its highest charms. Set off with a single spray of its bright green leaves, how charmingly does its snowy whiteness contrast with those raven locks. And whatever may be wanting in size, it more than compen- sates in the abundance of roses, while the petals are rolled back so neatly, one upon the other, that it well deserves the name of Ball of Snow. And last fall, I remember, what an abundance of white roses we gathered from this best of white autumnals. "And writing of autumnal bloomers, reminds me of that prince of dark Ro- ses, Xavier Oliro. Last fall this was one of the most attractive in the bed; and now the tree is covered with roses and rose-buds, as though its life work was to cover itself with blooms. And such blooms they are, too, magnificent in size and beautifully full, of a deep yet brilliant velvety scarlet, when first open, and gradually changing to dark- est crimson. It is an exceedingly showy Rose, that can not fail to be admired in the choicest selection — beautiful when only its rich, deep-green, glossy leaves are to be seen, but gorgeous when, mingling with its shining foliage, the THE CALIF0RNL4. HORTICULTUEIST. 27' darkly glowing roses are seen in tlie height of their beauty. ' ' But I must stop. Yet I can not stop until I have shown you the lovely Countess de Chabrillant. Did you ever see such shell-like petals, so beautifully set in cup -like form, and so sweetly tinted with shaded pink? Is it not a most lovely flower? And each rose is so perfect ; not crowded in clusters so close that none can get room to unfold in perfection, but singly, borne on the point of each strong shoot. " CALIFOEXIA SEEDLING PEAES. At a meeting of the Western New York Horticultural Society last winter, President Barry acknowledged the re- ceipt of several varieties of Seedling Pears, originated in California, of which he said : " In the month of November last, I received twenty-six varieties of Seed- ling Pears, raised by Mr. Bernard S. Fox, of San Jose, California. Their appearance surprised me. Many of them were so much like some of onr old, well-known sorts, that I half sus- pected my friend Fox of playing a joke on me. There were Bloodgood, Seckel, Lawrence, Winter Nelis, Beurre Clair- geau, Beurre Bosc, Easter Beurre, Duchesse d'Angouleme, Beurre Super- fine, Glout Morceau, and others. " Some friends, very good judges, to whom I sent specimens, had the same doubt in regard to their being seed- lings. When I began to examine them closely, and cut them, I found they were quite distinct from the sorts they resembled, and were positively new. I then wrote to Mr. Fox for some account of their origin, and he answered that they all sprung from the seed of the Belle Lucrative, sown in 1863, and had Vol. III.— 36. fruited in the rows where they had first grown. "Some bore the fifth year, and the sixth over 200 bore fruit. One-fourth of the trees have not yet fruited, and for five years to come new fruits may be expected. Many of these varieties are fujly equal in size and beauty to our best, and many have the advantage of being quite late. Generally speaking, they are deficient in vinous flavor, like the Easter Beurre and others of that class. Only one or two are slightly vinous ; but some were justly entitled to rank as best. A few of the largest appeared to be inferior in quality ; one specimen of these, resembling Nouveau Poiteau, in 1871, weighed two and one- half pounds. "This is, beyond doubt, the most remarkable instance of success in rais- ing Seedling Pears on record. And the fact that all are from seed of Belle Lu- crative, and none like that variety, but like all others growing around, is both curious and interesting, showing that the mother plant did not afi"ect the char- acter of the varieties. This might have been the case had some other varieties supplied the seed. Much of this suc- cess is, no doubt, due to the peculiar climate of California. The early age at which these trees begin to bear, even in the seed-bed, seems strange to us. Mr. Fox wrote me he could have sent eighty varieties the past season. "We may now cease looking to the old world for new varieties of Pears, and turn our attention to the Pacific Coast. Mr. Fox has already raised Pears superior to nine-tenths of the new varie- ties i-eceived from Europe in twenty years. And we shall not only get new varieties from the Pacific Coast, but we must expect to see our markets filled with their Pears. The supply from that source is already large." 278 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. LANDSCAPE GARDENING. Gardening, in all its branches, is a science that but very few understand; and landscape gardening, by Avhich we mean ornamental gardening-, or laying out grounds in design, is an art in itself. No one who has not a natural eye for the beautiful, and an innate love of Na- ture, can ever make a complete land- scape gardener. The artist on whom "Flora" and " Pomona" shower their favors and blessings feels their inspiration in all the labor he performs, and the trees, plants, and flowers thrive and grow, bud and blossom, and yield their fruit, as it were, by magic. There is a mysterious and electric chain that binds the master spirit and the dormant plants, which, when inspired, gives life and growth as the reward of faithful labor. How few who assume to know, and claim to be "experts" in gardening sci- ence, ever produce successful results. They are almost wholly ignorant of the true science, and only spoil by their efforts what could have been made beautiful; they seldom possess the requisite experience, taste, or knowl- edge, to bring about a happy result. A landscape gardener can only ac- quire a requisite knowledge of this art by much reading and study, and con- siderable practice — with an observant eye to the workings of Nature; for her skillful hands make "hill and dale," and "light and shade," just where from a given spot a "beautiful picture" should alwaj^s be found. The skillful landscape gardener must possess the requisite knowledge to look forward to the "years to come," and know the character and habits of the trees and plants he places in his grounds. He should know the size each will at- tain, the extent of their branches, etc , so that all their future growth shall still keep the design beautiful or make it more pei'fect. It is an utter ignor- ance, or inattention, io this point, that ruins so many grounds, that could have been an ornament to a large neigh- borhood — while the failure of such labor only deters others from like at- tempts. No person who has a handsome resi- dence should ever improve his grounds hastily, or leave this all-important work to common or unskillful hands. A bad design around a handsome mansion, in the garden grounds, or improper trees and plants, or good ones badly arranged, will destroy the beauty of all, and de- teriorate the value of such a residence manj^ times the cost of good and perfect work. California offers to all who will ac- cept from a bounteous Nature a "rich gift" — a climate and soil which, if right- ly improved, will always secure to every homestead beautiful surroundings. But those who would enjoy such blessings must remember, also, that Nature has laws that are imjoerative. Obey those laws in the cultivation of the earth, and the "horn of plenty" will fill the lap with abundance. Disobey, and barrenness and emi^tin^ss is the result. We think the experience of ten thou- sand tillers of the earth in California now testifies that Nature is not to be trifled with — that Nature recognizes all who obe}' her teachings, and loads with blessings the thankful heart. "Nsitiire never did betray The heart that loved her." — California Farmer. Editing a newspaper is very much like raking a fire — every one thinks he can perform the operation better than the man who holds the poker. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 279 FERN-PKESSING. The girls should not forget that this is the time to gather and press green ferns. They are so pretty and refresh- ing to have in the house in colcl weath- er, so easily obtained, and so little trouble to prepare, that it is a pity &nj one should be -without a few bunches when the flower season has j)assed. There are many modes of preserving them ; but the one that seems the most successful is to pick the ferns when they are young and tender ; lay them be- tween newspapers, or in large, flat books, and place them under very hea\y weights, until the sap has entirely dried. Persons who gather them in August often leave them in press till Thanks- giving or Christmas; asserting this long- subjection to the weights keeps the col- or better than any other method. The safest way to secure perfect Ferns is to take a book to the woods, and lay each one between the leaves as soon as bro- ken from the stem. Even in a few minutes Ferns will curl at their tips, and after an hour or two it is almost im- possible to lay them flat. This process is very good for bright leaves, and makes them look less artificial than when they are varnished. Bunches of autumn leaves are very beautiful even- ing decorations, if a lighted candle be set behind them. This brings out their brilliant tints, and gives them the ap- pearance of having been freshly gath- ered.— Scribners Montlily. A FAEMEE makes no greater mistake than in supposing that he must be wealthy to have a nice lawn in front of the house planted with flowers and evergreens, or that he can not have Pear-trees, grasses, and an abundance of small fruits. GARDEN ADORNMENTS. Ornamental vases, rustic stands, and hanging baskets filled with choice grow- ing plants, now form a prominent and comely feature in the decorations of our flower gardens and pleasure grounds. They are elaborately bedecked, and add richness and elegance to well-em- bellished grounds. In the smallest gar- dens there is room for one or more of them; they are of various sizes, and sold largely b}^ seedsmen. The successful culture of lovely plants in baskets, vases, etc., lies in the pi-oper selection of plants; for example, all the plants set in one vessel should be such as will flourish under the same treat- ment. It is true that some species require more water than others — some thrive best in sunshine, others succeed best in partial shade. Any one at a loss to select suit- able plants may ask an honest florist to furnish such j^lants, and the right num- ber, to plant in a vase, stand, or hang- ing basket. State the size of it, and whether it will be placed in full or in partial shade — and whether creeping or upright plants are desired. The next point is, to use a rich, light, and friable compost for the plants to grow in, as their roots will be confined in a small space. Frequent waterings should also be attended to. When the weather gets too cold for the plants in fall, all the vessels may be taken into the house, and by special care the plants therein will flourish till the following- spring, when they should be thrown out, and the vessels refilled with new plants and fresh compost. Ferns, Ivies, Lysimachias,Periwinkles, Lycopodiums, Tradescantias, Saxifra- gas, and many other genera, grow well even where they never get a glimpse of sunshine. — The Evergreen. 280 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. (!;(Utavi{U ^0rtf0U0. IRRIGATION IN THE GREAT SAN JOA- QUIN VALLEY. This valley extends from Stockton to Fort Tejon, in the southern portion of Kern County, being 250 miles in length, with an average width of fifty miles, and an area of 7,900,000 acres of valley land, less about 600,000 acres covered by Tulare Lake. Its light, sandy soil produces from ten to fifteen bushels of Wheat per acre, and the deep rich loam produces forty to sixty bushels of Wheat per acre. Little has been known of this vast expanse of rich territory' until within the past four or five years. The farmers planted Wheat in small tracts six or seven years ago, and increased the area each year, until they were en- abled to harvest last year a crop of 12,000,000 bushels of grain, which would require over 300 large ships to carry away. California is blessed with a climate and soil, which to the agriculturist is a mine of wealth unequaled on the face of the earth, but like everything else in this world, it is not perfect. The one defect is the uncertaintj^ of the rain-fall. Nature has provided in the great Sierra Nevada range, reservoirs of snow, which, melting in the spring and sum- mer months, pour down their streams of gold to the needy husbandmen. This vast plain has a perfectly even surface, and slopes gradually to the west and north, presenting a field for irrigation works, which, in point of economy in distributing the water, abundant and never-failing supply of water, and also richness of soil, can not be equaled. The subject of irrigation has recently attracted a great deal of attention. In our State large sums of money have been expended in the construction of canals. The principal field of opera- tions is in Fresno County, owing to the great abundance of water there and the ease and economj'^ with which the ca- nals can be constructed. The first com- j)any organized, two years since, in Fresno, to take water from King's River, near the town of Centerville; length of canal, twenty-three miles; wddth, fifteen feet; depth, three feet; capacity to irri- gate, 50,000 acres. The second, from the same river, near same point, thirteen miles long, twelve feet wide, two feet deep ; capacity, 30,000 acres. The third, twenty miles long, fifteen feet wide, three feet deep; capacity to irri- gate, 50,000 acres. The fourth, com- menced last 3'ear, will be completed during the coming winter. A head- gate has been erected and three hun- dred feet of canal cut at a cost of $15,- 000. It is to be one hundred feet wide, six feet deej), and six feet fall per mile, with a capacity to irrigate 500,000 acres. The above are shown on the map accom- panying this issue of the Horticulturist. Water has been used on about 10,000 acres only this season. The eanals were built and OAvned by the farmers of this locality; therefore we can not say what they cost, but would say for work al- ready done about $40,000. Owning the canals, the farmers pay no rate per acre, except enough to keep them in re- pair. Irrigation can be done cheaply. Mr. Easterby, near the town of Fresno, had 2,500 acres in grain, and irrigated five hundred acres with the work of two men, in one week. Upland, irrigated, yielded fifty bushels of Wheat per acre; and the land not irrigated averaged fif- teen bushels per acre. Although Wheat has been a jDrofitable crop, now that irrigation is at hand the farmers are turning their attention to crops of Cotton, Jute, Flax, Alfalfa, Tobacco, Oranges, Lemons, Limes, Figs, Grapes for wine and raisins. Al- monds, Walnuts, etc., all of which can THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 281 be grown in Fresno County with tlie greatest success. There is now under cultivation about 2,000 acres of Cotton, the quality equal to the best upland Cotton of the South. Cost of cultiva- tion one-third less than in the South, and the profit per acre, ^25 to $50. The picking is done by Chinamen ; wages, $25 per month, they feeding themselves. Jute can be grown here quite as successfully as Cotton, and with more profit. We shall shortly produce our own grain sacks, and there- by keep millions of dollars in the State. "Water-power on King's and San Joa- quin rivers, for Cotton and Jute facto- ries, is sufficient to drive all the spindles in the New England States, besides the economy in Chinese labor, cheapness of living, saving of fuel, owing to the mild climate, and nearness of raw material to factory. The San Joaquin Valley will become as renowned for Cotton as the Southern States. Besides the canals shown on the map and referred to above, there is in the same count}^ a canal taken from the San Joaquin River, built by Wm. S. Chap- man and Miller & Lux at a cost of $70,- 000. It is twenty-six miles long, twen- ty-five feet wide, and four feet deep, with a capacity of irrigating 150,000 acres. It is for the use of themselves alone. Also, a canal built by Mr. I. Friedlander to irrigate the land of the Alabama Settlement, which cost $75,- 000. The water is taken from the Fres- no River; length, thirty -five miles; width, twenty -five feet; depth, three feet; with a capacity to irrigate 75,000 acres. The water will be turned in shortly. Also, on the west side of the valley is the canal of the San Joaquin and King's River Canal and Irrigation Company, starting from the junction of Fresno Slough and the San Joaquin River; length, thirty-nine miles; width, fifty-four feet; depth, six feet; fall per mile, six feet; capacity 500,000 acres; cost, $450,000; charge for water, $1.50 per acre per crop. Fifteen thou- sand acres were irrigated this year, l^lanted in grain. Cotton and Alfalfa. Owing to the fact that not half the quantity of rain falls on the west side of the valle}^ that falls on the east, crops were a failure on the west side except where irrigated; the result of irrigation showing a yield of from thirty to fifty bushels of Wheat per acre — without it, none. The canal is to be extended, dur- ing the next two years, forty-five miles farther, to connect with the San Joa- quin River, and will be used for trans- portation. In time, Tulare Lake will be connected with this canal, giving an inexhaustible supply of water. An ex- tension of fifty-four miles will cost $300,000 additional. Other canals are projected and sur- veyed from Merced, Stanislaus, Tuol- umne, and Calaveras rivers. These will probably be constructed during the next five years. Irrigation on a small scale is also successfully carried on in San Joaquin, Tulare, and Kern coun- ties. People who are now living will yet see the day when the San Joaquin Valley will have a million of inhabit- ants, large cities will dot its plains, and the value of manufacturing interests be equal to the value of the entire gold yield of the State since gold was dis- covered. .^ — . To Tell Good Eggs. — If you desire to be certain that your eggs are good and fresh, put them in water; if the butts turn up they are not fresh. This is an infallible rule to distinguish a good egg from a bad one. Thkee thousand species of grass are known to botanists. 282 THE CALIFOENIA HOETICULTURIST. Magnolia, grandifloha. — It has been stated that the climate of San Francisco is not warm enough to perfect the flow- ers of the Magnolia grandijhra. This impression is wrong, and all that is necessary to prove this, is a visit to the garden of James Otis, Esq. , on Sutter Street in this city, where a finely devel- oped plant has produced some veiy fine flowers during the last few weeks, not- withstanding that the plant is exposed to the heavy winds and is in no way sheltered. This ought to be encourag- ing to the more extensive cultivation of this handsome tree, with its beautiful and efiective evergreen foliage, which, alone, offers strong inducements for its culture as a choice ornamental shrub or tree. Apocyxum as a Fibke Plaxt. — From the Gardener's Chronicle (London) we obtain the following item : The Times' correspondent at Berlin writes thus of a new fibre plant : A fibrous plant called Apocynum venetum has been discovered growing wild in such quantities, in Turkistan, that it may be expected soon to make its ap- jDearance in the market. Its fibres, as tender and delicate as flax, as strong and tenacious as hemp, are, by combining the qualities of two, greatty suj^erior to either. The Russians will probably endeavor to transj^lant it to Europe, an attempt which might be made by other countries as well. It is tolerably well known that our species of Apocynum, of which we have two, furnish a superior fibre, as does also the related Asclepias incarnata. All these are vigorous, hardy perennials, and could, under cultivation, be made to yield large crops. A series of thor- ough and well-conducted experiments, which shall test the comparative value and productiveness of our native fibre plants, is much needed. But how shall it be obtained? The Overland Monthly for Septem- ber presents a varied and interesting table of contents. The most interest- ing practical papers are: " Our Indian Policy," "One of Our Farming Coun- ties," "Rates of Railroad Transporta- tion," and "The Savings Banks of California." There is much other mat- ter, consisting of stoiies, poetiy, and reviews of books. It is one of the best magazines in the country. $4 per an- num. J. H. Carmany & Co., publish- ers, 409 Washington St., San Francisco. FAIRS AND EXHIBITIONS. California State Fair. — This Fair, which will open on the 15th inst. , prom- ises to be largely attended, and the exhibition, in all its varied deiDartments, will exceed any former display. Forty thousand dollars will be distributed in cash premiums. It will remain open five days. Horticultural Society Fair. — AYe would urge our nurserymen and fruit- growers to come out in united strength and excel any of their previous credit- able exhibitions. By persistent effort, a full and hearty recognition will be ob- tained. We must remember that every- thing here is still in its infancy, and when we have cultivated the tastes of the j)eoplo to a more appreciative stand- ard, the reward will be more abundant and satisfactory. The premium list, and all other necessary information for exhibitors, will be found on page 4 of the cover of the present number. One Hundred Mei'ino sheep, with plenty of bedding, will, during the or- dinary feeding time in winter, produce about forty two-horse wagon loads of manure, which is far more valuable as a fertilizer than that of either horses or cows. THE CALIFOEXLi HOKTICULTIJEIST. 283 With pleasure "we refer our readers to the advertisement of the Wholesale Catalogue for autumn, 1873, of Messrs. Ellvranger & Barry, of Kocbester, Xew York. It is sent free to all applicants. Also, to their extensive assortment of Trees, Plants and Bulbs mentioned on page 8 of oiu' advertising sheet. Dried Fruit — The Alden Process. — We vrere shown, a few days since, some bunches of gTapes which had been dried at San Lorenzo by the Alden process. The grapes, although hardly ripe, had been perfectly cui-ed and turned into raisins in four hours. The fruit-grow- ers in that vicinity are well satisfied with their experiment so far. About 30,000 pounds of green fruit can be worked oft' in a day, with the following results: Pouiius Per ct. Pounds Fruit. green fruit, waste, dry fruit. Apples 100 88 12 Peaches 100 88 12 Apricots 100 86 14 Pears 100 88 12 Plums 100 86 14 Grapes 100 80 20 Blackberries.... 100 84 16 Pitted Cherries. 100 84 16 Goosebenies. ... 100 80 20 If the fruit-grower can get one cent a pound for the choicest varieties of grapes, the profit will be much more satisfactory than on a wheat crop. One hundred pounds of grapes at a dollar will produce twenty pounds of raisins worth two dollars and a half. Deducting ex- penses of freight and the cost of dry- ing, there would still be a margin of more than one hundred per cent. Good raisins will sell readily at fifteen cents a pound, and the highest price asked in round lots for the best kind of grapes would not exceed five cents, while the Mission and some other varieties can be bought at a cent a pound. If the Alden jjrocess can't make home-made raisins plenty, we know of no other process that will be likely to secure such a ve- sult.— Bulletin. Grouping of Plants. — There is no way in which the deadening formalism of our gardens may be more eftectually destroyed than by the system of natu- rally grouping hardy plants. It may aftbrd most pleasing results, and im- press on others the amount of variety and loveliness to be obtained from many families now unused. Trees and shrubs, distinguished for their fine foliage, col- lected in quiet glades; and then bright- foliage trees should be set in contrast with quieter colors, and varied with bright beds of flowers and leaf plants, or hardy flowering shrubs. Those groups should be irregularly but artistically planted. Then on a knoll plant a large bouquet of the rosaceous family — Haw- thorns, Cherries, Plums, Pears, Peach- es, Almonds, etc. There is so much that may be done to add to the bewil- dering beauty of a landscape by nat- urally artistic planting, that we are often astonished that people do not "see it." — Rural Xew Yorl-e7\ Tree Le:u[0N Verbena. — In these days, when effective plants are sought after, we should not lose sight of things at hand with which to produce as good results as any new introduc- tion can aftbrd. The Loudon Garden- er's Chronicle calls attention to the pretty efiects which can be had from the common Lemon Verbena when trained as a standard. The wavy spikes of flowei's are very graceful, and the odoriferous character of the plant will always make it a favorite in any form. — Gardener's Monthly. 284 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. REPORT ON THE FRUIT AND VEGET- ABLE MARKET. BY E. J. HOOPER. Altliougli, for California, there were frosts iu the spring which were unusu- ally severe, and which in some sections cut off at least one-fourth of the Grape and Apricot crops, yet, generally speak- ing, there was but little damage done, and the fruit production has been but little diminished. The uncommonly cool weather, during the spring and one or two summer months, had the benefi- cial effect of prolonging the bearing season of many sorts — especially the Strawberries and Raspberries. So, take the season altogether, fi-uits of all kinds have been most abundant and good. There never was an August that showed on the stalls a greater quantity of every description of fruit. To be sure there were to be seen too many inferior boxes and baskets of Pears, Apples, and Peaches, bringing but little, if any, profit to their producers, and showing- how desirable it is for all cultivators to grow only the veiy best of the sev- eral varieties. Diminutive, spongy, and juiceless fruits, of whatever kind, are very unremunerative to all parties, be- sides being very unwholesor^e. With respect to Plums, we should like very much to see the true European Green Gage, so celebrated for its fine flavor, richness, and juiciness, much more generally cultivated by fruitists. In Europe it has many synonyms, (about fifteen), like all the choicest fruits. One of them is, the "King of Plums," to which it is certainly most justly en- titled ; but its most common name is Beine Claude. The true variety is read- ily known by its short-jointed, slow- grovv'iug, spreading, and dwarfish habit. It requires a very rich, warm soil to in- sure fruit in perfection. The best book authorities pronounce the flesh of the Green Gage exceedingly melting, rich, sprightly, and of high flavor, and it separates freely from the stone. Fi-uit, medium, round, suture slight; skin, yellowish green — green mostly prevail- ing— marbled and dotted on the sunny side with red ; stalk, slender, slightly inserted. The Imperial Gage, or Prin- cess Imperial Gage, is often mistaken for the Green Gage, but it is consid- erably inferior to it. We have tasted samples of the time Green Gage on this coast, and we never ate better in England, or on the conti- nent of Europe. They are to be found in jDcrfection at Mr. Thompson's Suscol Orchards on the California Pacific Rail- road. Probably it is not so profitable a Plum to raise as the more common kinds, (the tree being also not so vigor- ous as some other sorts), but if once well-known in the market, by good judges of fruit and persons of epicurean tastes, we are sure it would fetch a price which would well repay the cultivators. As to the cultivation of the Plum : the Green Gage, Cloth of Gold, etc., require to be i^lanted about fifteen feet apart, while the Imperial Gage, Wash- ington, etc., would be better at twenty feet. They may be planned in any good soil which is either naturally or artifi- cially drained. They require but little pruning, except to shorten back such shoots as are too vigorous and likely to destroy the regular form of the tree ; or to cut out weakly -growing shoots. The Green Gage requires but little, either of branch or root pruning, as it is a slow or slender growing variety. Like all other fruit trees, the Plum does best, of course, when the ground is often jiloughed, dug, or hoed around. The best manure is animal. Ashes, in soils devoid ( >f lime and the phosphates, will be found beneficial : two bushels to a THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 285 tree twelve feet high will be a guide. To return to the subject of our mar- kets : Here we will state generally, that fniit, in perfection, should be full-sized, sound, ripe, fresh, and of ihe best varie- ties. How many there are of our fruits W'ith which the market is loaded, which fall far short of these requirements, we will leave the public to judge ; for our own part, we may, perhaps, be allowed to say that, in these respects, a vast quantity of them are greatly deficient. But notwithstanding these drawbacks, the fruits of California, taking them in the aggregate, are certainly the most perfect in size and condition, as they are also, upon the whole, delicious in taste. All travelers declare that they have never seen anything like them in any other country. Indeed, the truth is, that all of Nature's works that are met with in California are so widely dif- ferent from those seen in the Eastern or Atlantic States, that when visitors descend into its beautiful valleys from the mountains, they almost feel as if they were treading upon the soil of some new and suj)erior sphere. But, upon recollection, they feel proud that the same flag of stars and stripes floats over the public and private edifices in San Francisco, and on the forts and shipping of its beautiful and extensive bay, as over the rest of the glorious Union. The supplies of Strawberries and Blackberries are now greatly dimin- ished, and the latter have nearly ceased to make their appearance in market; their value is accordingly appreciating. Apjoles are very plentiful, and their prices, of course, are moderating. Bart- lett Pears are becoming gradually much cheaj)er, while the common varieties are proportionably lower in price, also. Choice varieties of foreign Graj)es — Rose of Peru, Muscat of Alexandria, Vol. III.— 37. Tokay, and Black Hamburg — are noAV in market in large qiiantities, and are quoted from 8 to 15 cents per pound, only. Apricots and the ordinary varie- ties of Peaches are nearly gone, with prices but little changed at present. Clingstone Peaches are, many of them, fine and abundant. Plums are now at the height of their excellence and glory, though most of them are of inferior kinds. Seckel Pears — that luscious and high-flavored sort, small though they are comparatively — are beginning, like the Green Gage Plum, to be prized more and more every year, and are to be obtained (unlike the Green Gage) in sufficient numbers for the fruit epicures. The steamers are bringing slowly moderate lots of Los Angeles Lemons, which, owing to other kinds not be- ing plentiful, bring remunerative prices. Huckleberries still remain at 20 cents per pound ; Mangoes, $1 ; Alligator Pears, $2 per dozen ; Smyrna Figs, 35 cents i)er pound. On the 1st of SejDtember there was no great change in the price of vege- tables. Melons also hold their own, but the abundant sui:)ply that is coming in threatens to break down the prices pre- vailing. "Watermelons are quotable at 15@35c. each; Nutmeg Melons at $1 per dozen, and Cantaloupes 10@35c. apiece. , The best samples of Green Corn have declined 5c. jjer dozen dur- ing this week, and the present range is from 15@25c. per dozen. Rhubarb is G@8c. per pound ; Egg Plant, 8e. per pound; Okra, 10@15c. per pound; Sal- sify, 10c. per bunch ; Summer Squash, 5c. each; Artichokes, 25 @ 35c. j)er dozen. Annexed is a correct monthly state- ment of Strawberry statistics, and the range of prices for each month: March, 23 chests, 30c@$l 50; April, 3,955 chests, 7@45c. ; May, 8,372 chests. 286 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. 5@15c. ; June, 2,918 chests, 5@15c.; July, 3,433 chests, 3@9c.; August, 400 chests, l^@6c. Total, 19,101 chests. Filters and Filtering. — In eveiy well appointed kitchen there are tin or por- celain funnels. For filtering watery fluids, it is only necessary to insert in the choice of the funnel, a V-shaped piece of fine sponge. All such liquids, on being put into the funnel, will pass tlirough the sponge and become quite clear. When this effect ceases, the sponge must be removed and well cleansed. Vinous fluids are best cleared by filtering through a cone of white blotting-paper, shaped by folding a square piece of paper from corner to corner, and then folding the triangle into half its size, and opening the folds ; it will fit any funnel, which will act as a much needed support to the paper. Wines, etc., poured into this, will run through perfectly bright. In some cases, where the wine is only thick from lees, cork, or other mechanically sus- pended substance, it can be made quite clear by filtering through a wad of w^hite cotton put in the choke of the funnel ; and when this ansAvers, it is much quicker than the paper filter. For jelly and oil, wool alone is the proper me- dium for filtering. The felted wool jelly-bag is pretty well known as the best means of clearing calves' foot jelly, and it also answers for olive and other oil. These bags are, however, too ex- pensive to be generally used; hence they are rarely seen in a kitchen. A good substitute for the wool bag is a cullender, on the inside of which a new flannel lining should be fitted, made of double stuff. A wad of white knitting- wool, put into the choke of a funnel, will do to filter a small portion of such fluids. — Scientific American. (^t^xmxmxdtut. THE ENGLISH SPAEROW. Editor California Jlorlicidturiat : In a recent number of the Ecening Bulletin, I read with some interest the following: A Californian who has recently re- turned from New York is anxious to have steps taken to introduce tlie Eng- lish Sparrow on this coast. He says the bird there has proved a great bless- ing, especially in the city. The trees in the parks are in more flourishing con- dition in consequence. The sparrow lives on insects; it delights in caterpil- lars ; it searches after the eaii}' worm, and when found, makes a meal of him. The result is a great improvement in the foliage within the city. Three years ago Trinit}' Church graveyard was a desolate-looking place. Scarcely a leaf was to be seen on the trees; the worms held high carnival, and had it all their OAvn way. They built nests in the trees, and dropped down on the necks of the ladies. They were especially partial to green things, but when the foliage gave out, they crawled on the walks, into the church, up the shiny boots of the church-goers, in search of whatever they could devour. The sjDarrows came and gobbled them up; the leaves got a chance to grow again; the trees took a fresh start, and now all is changed. The trees actually vie with their coun- try cousins in beauty of foliage. The sparrows did it; they afe the most won- derful insect destroyers of the feathered tribe. They are also among the tamest birds in the world. They will run along the sidewalk a few feet in front of a person, as if delighted in human companionsliip. Boys forget to throw stones at them, and hoodlums are abashed in their presence. Such con- fidence as they display- in the kindness of man is not to be returned with cru- elty. They even serve to humanize the hoodlum. It is really amusing to see the little creatures come every morning about the door-steps and wiiulow-sills to get crumbs of bread from the children. Many become so tame that thej- perch on the hands that feed them. The keepers of the Central Park say they THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 287 have been of great benefit to every park in the city. They breed very fast, and will soon overrun a coiintry when well started. In two years after their intro- duction in New York city, they were ob- served at Niagara Falls. They followed up the Hudson and along the Erie Ca- nal, scattering blessings as they went. They would be of much use in the Golden Gate Park. They seem espec- ially adapted to city life, and to abodes in city parks and yards, where little fruit is raised. The fruit-raisers of the interior might object to them, because they would occasionally pick at the cherries, but it is probable that even in gardens in the country they would be of more service than harm. Who can give information about their operations in the country ? If any, let them send in their facts — favorable or unfavorable, no matter. San Francisco does not want to be benefited at the expense of the interior, not even in the matter of sparrows. I fully agree with the writer of the above that the English Sparrow is very beneficial to the vegetation in the East, and particularly to that of the large cities, like New York ; but I doubt whether the introduction of the spar- row here would be of much good at this time, and for some time to come. The reasons for my assertions are these: First of all, insects usually taken off by the sparrow have not proved trouble- some on this coast ; they are very few in number, and although they multiply very rapidly when they once make their appearance, the fact remains indispu- table that insects are not now more nu- merous than they were twenty years ago, for reasons which may require proper explanation, but which are im- material here. Secondly, the ornamental trees which are cultivated hereabouts are chiefly ev- ergreens ; and nine-tenths of those, again, are coniferous trees, the foliage of which is not attacked by insects. The trees at the Trinity Church-yard of New York, which the writer of the above mentions, are all deciduous, to the best of my recollection, and it is the foliage of such trees upon which the insects in question live. The same is the case with all of the shade trees along the streets and roads of the eastern cities. Our shade trees consist chiefly of the Eucalyptus and Acacia, and none of them are apt to be injured by insects, according to my experience. I am strongly in favor of protecting birds — ^they do more good than harm. But the introduction of sparrows will be an expense unaccompanied by any benefit that I can perceive at this tijne. Yours, truly, F. A. Miller. Rochester, N. Y., Aug. 4, 1873. J. H. Carmany&Co. — Gentlemen: We read your Magazine with much pleas- ure; and it seems to be so interesting to those in our employ, that it is difficult for us to keep the numbers on file, which we wish to do. We desire you to send us the numbers of the first six months of the present year, that we may preserve them. We do not know that you can supply back numbers, but if so, please send them on, and droj) us a line stating the amount of indebted- ness, and we will remit. Yours, very respectfully, J. ViCK. Alhambka, Cal., Aug. 21st, 1873, Messes. J. H. Cakmany & Co. — Sirs: Even a hasty perusal of the two numbers of the HoRTicDLTDEisT received impressed me so favorably, that I am anxious to get the back numbers, from January. I beg of you the favor to alter my subscription, to be for the year 1873. Whenever the spirit moves me, I will take pleasure in sending you some ijrac- iical notes. Yours truly, J. Steentzel. 288 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. (^(Utorial 6UauiU()iS. The Canned Pineapple Trade. — The schooner Rebecca Florence, Captain Richards, has reached this city with the largest cargo of canned Pineapples ever brought into any port, she having 420,- 000 cans in bulk, and 1,217 cases, con- taining 23,000 cans. The establishment at Nassau for canning Pineaj)ples was placed in operation two years ago by Messrs. Kensett k Co. and Evans, Reeves & Co., of Baltimore, and Kemp, Day & Co., of New York. A grant was obtained from the English Colonial Government for five years, and large buildings have been erected to carry on the industry, where the Pineapples are received fully ripe and fresh from the plantations. The packing season com- menced this year on the 14th of May, and ended on the 31st of July, during which period 1,000,000 Pineapples were purchased, and 1,010,000 cans of the fruit were packed. For six consecutive days 32,000 cans were packed on each day. The pines come from the island of New Providence and the surrounding- out -islands, and are bought at from eighteen to forty cents per dozen, in gold. The company had upon their wharves at one time during the season just closed, 90,000 Pines. The native laborers, men and women, employed in the height of the packing season num- ber from 400 to 600, and they are paid from eighteen to fifty cents per day, in coin, labor being very cheap. Mr. Henry Evans, Jr., of one of the firms engaged in the business, came home in the schooner, having been at Nassau during the packing season, su- perintending the operations. The Re- becca Florence has brought two cargoes to this port this summer, which is all of the fruit shipped to the United States, the remainder going to the English market. From Baltimore the canned Pines are distributed throughout the United States, and bring about $4 per case of two dozen two-pound cans. On the 31st of July the canning season ended, and operations will not be re- sumed until May of next year. The firms have about $200,000 invested in the enterprise, and for fruit and labor alone the sum of §60,000 was paid iu Nassau, which is of great importance to the inhabitants there, as there are but few industrial resources yet devel- oped on the island. The cans for the English market are of extra size, as the Pines for that trade are packed whole, while for this country they are canned in pieces. The following is transcribed from a beautifully j^rinted label, bearing a good picture of the fruit, and intended for the English cans : "Fresh Pineapples, (whole), packed in her Majesty's Colonies, by the Nassau Packing Company, Nassau, N. P." The preserving is effected by the aid of steam, generated by an engine, and forced through tubes into vats contain- ing the fruit. The sugar used is granu- lated, and of the finest quality. By the grant all machinery and raw material are imported free of duty, except sugar, and even upon that, a dii^wback of nine- ty per cent, is allowed by the Colonial Government as it is used. The cans for the reception of the fruit are all manu- factured in Nassau, but the skilled labor is obtained in Baltimore. This is a new enterprise, conceived by the firms named, there being no other parties in the business, and it has met with most gratifying success. — Baltimore American. Double Fertilization of Female Flowers. — Mr. Arnold, of Paris, Can- ada, has shown that if the female flow- ers of an Indian-corn plant are submit- ted to the action of pollen from male THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 289 flowers of different kinds of Corn plants, each grain of the ear produced shows the effect of both kinds of pollen. In an experiment related, a given female flower was subjected first to the action of pollen from a yellow variety of Corn, and then to that taken from a white va- riety; the result was an ear of Corn, each grain of Avhich was yellow below and white above. The conclusion pre- sented is, not only an immediate influ- ence on the seed and the whole fruit- structure by the application of strange pollen, but the more important fact that one ovule can be affected by the pollen of two distinct parents, and, this, too, after some time had elapsed be- tween the first and the second impreg- nation.— Scrtbner's Monthlij. Vegetable Instinct. — If a pail of water be placed within six inches of either side of the stem of a Pumpkin or Vegetable Marrow, it will in the course of the night approach it, and will be found in the morning with one of the leaves on the water. This experiment may be continued nightly until the plant begins to fruit. If a prop be placed within six inches of a young Convolvulus, or Scarlet- runner, it will find it, although the prop may be shifted daily. If, after it has twined some distance up the proj), it be unwound, and twined in the opposite direction, it will return to its original position, or die in the attempt ; yet, notw^ithstanding, if two of these plants grow near each other, and have no stake around which they can entwine, one of them will alter the direction of the spiral, and they will twine around each other. Duhamel placed some Kidney Beans in a cylinder of moist earth; after a short time they commenced to germi- nate— of course sending the plume to- ward the light, and the root down into the soil. After a few daj's, the cylinder was turned one-fourth around, and again and again this was repeated, un- til an entire revolution of the cylinder was completed. The beans were then takeu out of the earth, and it was found that both the j^lume and the radicle had bent to accommodate themselves to every revolution, and, the one in its efforts to ascend joerpendicularly, and the other to descend, they had formed a perfect spiral. But although the natural tendency of the roots is down- ward, if the soil beneath be dry, and any damp substance be above, tlie roots will ascend to reach it. — Exchange. Roots as Manure. — It has been found that the roots of a good crop of Red Clover left in an acre of land after the removal of the crop, weigh G,580 pounds or from three to three and a half tons. The same examination gave the weight of an acre of Rye roots at 3,500 pounds, and of Wheat roots at 3,400 pounds. All this matter is of course valuable for the use of such crops as may be grown during or after its decomposition. The well - known superiority of Clover as a manuring crop, however, is not due alone to the greater amount of organic matter, taken mainly from the atmosphere, which its roots supply, but also to the position in which this matter is deposited. The roots reach deeply into the soil, and on their decomposition they serve to draw moisture from the lower soil, and by the decomposition of fertilizing mat- ter to a considerable depth, they induce the descent of the roots of other crops to a point where they are much more sure of a supply of moisture during a dry season than they could be if nearer- the surface. Then again, these deeply penetrating roots traverse parts of the 290 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. subsoil not heretofore open to vegeta- tion, find in their decomposition they produce a chemical effect on the inor- ganic substances that lie along their courses, and help to render them, too, serviceable for future crops. — American Agriculturist. The Eyes in Deep-sea Creatures.— In his "Notes from the Challenger," "NVyviile Thomson says: The absence of eyes in many deep-sea animals, and their full development in others is very remarkable. I have mentioned the case of one of the stalk-eyed crustaceans, Ethuaa granulata, in AThich well- devel- oped eyes are present in examples from shallow water. In deeper water, from one hvmdred and ten to three hundred and seventy fathoms, eye-stalks are pres- ent, but the animal is apparently blind, the eyes being rei)laced by rounded, calcareous terminations to the stalks. In examples from five hundred to seven hundred fathoms, in another locality, the eye-stalks have lost their special character, have become fixed, and their terminations combine into a strong, pointed rostrum. In this case we have a gradual modification, dejpending ap- parently upon the gradual diminution and final disappearance of solar light. On the other hand Manida, from equal depths, has its eyes unusually develop- ed, and apparently of great delicacy. Is it possible that in certain cases, as the sun's light diminishes, the power of vision becomes more acute; while at length the eye becomes susceptible of the stimulus of the fainter light of phos- phorescence?— Scribner's. laid evenly over the surface of the ground, and over this is spread, to the thickness of two inches, a mortar com- pounded of two parts sand to one of lime; this is allowed to stand twenty- four hours, or until the surface becomes dry. The floor is then thoroughly pounded all over, until it becomes as moist as when first laid, with a block of wood about a foot square and three inches thick, having a handle rising from the middle. The floor then dries, and this operation is repeated until very little moisture can be brought to the surface; a thin layer of red ochre is then sifted on. The floor is then thoroughly polished by a smooth, flat, water- worn stone. Roofs are made in the same manner without the coloring matter, which is added merely to im- prove the tint, and they are unaffected by sun or rain. Hard Lime Floors. — The Mexicans make a floor on which a horse can trot without making an indentation, by the following method: A layer of broken limestone, three or four inches thick, is Ficus REPENS. — The Journal of Hor- ticulture calls attention to this plant. We have found it one of the most beau- tiful things for covering the back walls of greenhouses. It groAVS in a partial shade almost as well as the common Ivy, and clings to the wall in the same man- ner. It is a first-rate vase or basket plant. We have found^t to endure the freezing point without injury. The Journal says: "This is a creeping- stemmed plant, and attaches itself very closely to walls and wood- work. For the former it is particularly suitable, and grows more freely than on the lat- ter, as the wall retains more moisture. The plant has proved itself to be hardier than was thought years ago, it being now introduced freely into warm green- houses and conservatories, and thriv€>s there very satisfactorily. Very little rooting space is needed, as compared with other plants, for it throws out root- lets at almost every joint. Too much THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 291 moisture must be guarded against with these cooler temperatui^es, otherwise the foliage will be apt to damp-off." The Best Orchid. — Since so much at- tention has recently been given to the growth of these curious and beautiful flowers in this country, it is well to know that what in Europe is called "one of the best," belongs to a class ver}' easy to grow. Generally the Cijp- rij^ediums will do in a cool greenhouse almost as well as Grerauiums, or any common plant. A report of a meeting in Brussels says: "In the class (con- fined to nurserymen) for ten Cypripe- diamf;, there was no competition. The best Orchid in the whole show was con- tributed by Mr. Linden in the next class as a single specimen, viz: Cypri- pediiiw. villosam — a grand specimen, beautifully bloomed, with upwards of fifty flowers. This plant deservedly received the first prize, the second be- ing awarded to Mr. Van Geert for a nice plant of Odontoglosam Fescalorhl, with five spikes of bloom." CoLLECTiox OF Obanges. — Says the Journcd of the Farm: " It is not gener- ally known that the Superintendent of the Government Gardens, at Washing- ton, has for some time past been making a collection of all accessible varieties of Oranges, and that he now has over fifty varieties, of which but three kinds have yet been distributed, viz: Tangerine, Maltese, and St. Michaels. It is pro- posed to have the different varieties tested, and when their qualities are as- certained, to distribute the best kinds for cultivation in the South and on our Pacific Coast. This branch of Horticul- ture is one which has made rapid pro- gress within the last few years, and we are glad to note that Mr. Saunders is thus assisting' it." Testing Olive Oil. — Professor Pal- mieri, of Naples, the gallant observer who, it will be remembered, enjoyed himself on the slopes of Vesuvius during a recent long-continued eruj)tion, has lately constructed an electrical appara- tus of great delicacy and ingenuity, the object of which is to detect the admix- ture of other oils with that of the pure olive. The instrument is founded on the fact of the variability in the powers of conduction possessed by the various oils, olive being lowest in the scale. The wires of a battery are brought to a small elongated vessel containing the oil to be examined, and an electrom- eter being attached, the degree of con- ductivity can be read off on a scale. The instrument, it is said, can detect any of the usual adulterants with the utmost nicety. It has also been applied to the de- tection of woolen or cotton fibres in silk fabrics with equal success. Pine Leaves are at present largely utilized in Europe They are converted into a kind of wool or wadding, which is applied very serviceably and economi- cally as a substitute for hair in up- holstery. A kind of flannel material has for some time been produced from this fibre, which is said to be very sujDerior ^for many hygienic uses, as for rheuma- tism and various diseases of the skin — vests, drawers, loose shirts, &c., being among the garments made; in the pro- cess of manufacture, an ethereal oil is obtained, very useful as a solvent, and as a curative agent. Gas is also made, from the refuse, of a quality valuable for lighting manufactories. Appearance of Milk Under the Mi- croscope.— The number and appearance of the butter globules, when viewed with the microscope, distinguish the various qualities of milk. In sweet 292 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. milk tlie}^ are numerous and crowded togetlier; by the gathering of these but- ter globules together, cream is formed on the surface of the milk. After but- ter has been made from the milk a cer- tain amount of the butter globules still remain in it. Boussingault's experi- ments show that one-fourth part of the entire amount of butter remains in the butter-milk. Skim-milk contains less butter than butter-milk; the latter is therefore often adulterated with the for- mer, but this admixture of skim-milk may be detected with the miscroscope. A good cream contains 37 to 40 per cent, of butter. Floriculture. — Scribner's Monthly says all lovers of flowers must remem- ber that one blossom allowed to mature or "go to seed" injures the plant more than a dozen new buds. Cut your flow- ers then, all of them, before they begin to fade. Adorn jouv room with them ; put them on your tables; send bouquets to your friends who have no flowers; or exchange favors with those who have. You will surely find that the more you cut off the more you will have. All Roses, after they have ceased to bloom, should be cut back, that the strength of the root may go to forming new roots for the next year. On bushes, not a seed should be allowed to mature. A Good French Idea. — The milk cans in which the milk is conveyed over the railways of France are made of similar shape to ours, but the lids are so ar- ranged that by turning a screw they can be forced down on the milk, and thus prevent all motion. The cans are wrapped in woolen cloths, and these are wet from time to time as they may need it. The evaporation of the moisture thus keeps down the temperature of the milk, and no difficulty is experienced in carrying it a long distance, even in warm weather. Tee fishery treaty between the United States and Great Britain permits the admission of fish-oil free of duty, while all other oils pay ten per cent. The question has thereupon arisen whether the oil obtained from seals should pay duty. From a zoological point of view, it is not fish-oil; but since it is the gen- eral practice of commercial nations to consider all oils obtained from marine creatures as fish- oils, the government will probably be obliged to regard seals as fish. — Scrxhner's Monthly. Cissus Discolor. — It is a matter of surprise that this lovely climbing plant is not used for out-door summer gar- dening to a greater extent than it is. The Garden says: "In the gardens of Mr. Linden, at Gand, there is now growing one of these plants which dur- ing the past year produced new shoots, the total aggi-egate of the length of which amounted to 1,625 feet. We are informed that the plant was grown in a mixture of coal ashes and spent tan." Rose Insects. — If any one is desirous of keeping the Rose-bffshes free from the small green vermin, the following remedy will be found a most effectual one : To three gallons of soft water add one peck of soot and one quart of unslaked lime; stir it well, let it stand for twenty-four hours, and when the soot rises to the surface, skim it off. Use a syringe for applying it. — Science of Health. W. Saville Kent shows that in certain spine-finned fish, as the bream, and es- pecially in the male, the color increases in dejith and often in brilliancy during the spawning season. 292 THE CALIFORNLi HORTICULTURIST. milk the}^ are numerous and crowded together; by the gathering of these but- ter globules together, cream is formed on the surface of the milk. After but- ter has been made from the milk a cer- tain amount of the butter globules still remain in it. Boussingault's experi- ments show that one-fourth jjart of the entire amount of butter remains in the butter-milk. Skim-milk contains less butter than butter-milk; the latter is therefore often adulterated with the for- mer, but this admixture of skim-milk may be detected with the miscroscope. A good cream contains 37 to 40 per cent, of butter. Floeiculture. — Scribner's 3Icmthhj says all lovers of flowers must remem- ber that one blossom allowed to mature or "go to seed" injures the plant more than a dozen new buds. Cut your flow- ers then, all of them, before they begin to fade. Adorn your room Avith thciii ; jDut them on youv tables; send bouquets to 3'our friends who have no flowers; or exchange favors with those who have. You will surely find that the more you cut off the more you will have. All Roses, after they have ceased to bloom, should be cut back, that the strengtli of the root may go to forming new roots for the next year. On bushes, not a seed should be allowed to mature. A Good French Idea. — The milk cans in which the milk is conveyed over the railways of France are made of similar shape to ours, but the lids are so ar- ranged that by turning a screw they can be forced down on the milk, and thus prevent all motion. The cans are wrapped in woolen cloths, and these are wet from time to time as they may need it. The evaporation of the moisture thus keeps down the temperature of the milk, and no difficulty is experienced carrying it a long distance, even in warm weather. The fishery treaty between the United States and Great Britain permits the admission of fish-oil free of duty, while all other oils pay ten per cent. The question has thereupon arisen whether the oil obtained from seals should pay duty. From a zoological x^oiut of view, it is not fish-oil; but since it is the gen- eral jDractice of commercial nations to consider all oils obtained from marine creatures as fish oils, the government will probably be obliged to regard seals as fish. — Scnbners Monthly. Cissus Discolor. — It is a matter of surprise that this lovelj' climbing plant is not used for out-door summer gar- dening to a greater extent than it is. The Garden says: "In the gardens of Mr. Linden, at Gand, there is now growing one of these plants which dur- ing the past year produced new shoots, the total aggregate of the length of which amounted to 1,625 feet. We are informed that the plant was grown in a mixture of coal ashes and spent tan." Rose Insects. — If any one is desirous of keeping the Rose-bushes free from the small green vermin, the following remedy will be found a most effectual one : To three gallons of soft water add one peck of soot and one quart of unslaked lime; stir it well, let it stand for tweuty-four hours. soot rises Use a of Hr I . -t- -e,. 1^ ..^ha. Jif\\i. Ji'Mtf, .*. tw^~ m- ♦X f. vii.i^/-.>i by their failure in keeping such ornaments in good grow- ing condition. The fact is, that if a l..i/:.« i : . Tin..,! ^vith suitable plants, ordi- aflice to keep it in good it is ev; • some \i' :> >■ _ach at- ;o the gen- •i more i> . e eye, but UDlit wever, the fault rt'st> .e floi*- ist : nocfleot n- ■■ ns to tue proper moae or treatment are very often the cause of failure Vol. hi.— 38. Baskets are made '■ and patterns. Our potttTie.*. fnvnish some very neat ones, )■ 'V ■ . Oi .' Tli'X-: \1^ a AS lava-pots, aea.- better could be procureti, Which of all 1^ ^- for u hanging bu . of fancy or expenditure suitable for the •' — am concerned, J ket to all ot ' ble and the mof,t expoii basket, • numufit. patterii^ it i» a when 1i ■.'..< inj; i Europe soni- '1 the patterns introduced here seem to be deficient and impractical; an improve- 294 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. meut in tliem will he very tlesirable. The most importfint fact in the selec- tion of a hanging basket, is proper size. Too often an attempt is made to culti- vate too large a number of plants in a small basket. As it is desirable that a basket should contain a collection of plants, the size of an ordinary basket should be from ten to twelve inches wide, and from six to eight inches deep. As a suitable soil for baskets, I would recommend a light sandy loam with very little manure. In making the soil too rich, the plants will grow too much, and out of proportion, with the appear- ance of a wild confusion, when grace- fulness and neatness should be the only aim. At the bottom of the basket a layer of charcoal should be placed, which will keep the soil in a sweet and healthy condition, and I would advise to mix a small portion of charcoal with the soil for the same purpose. If a rustic basket is selected, proper •di^inage must be provided, by boring a hole tlirough the bottom of the wooden frame, and placing a few pieces of broken pots over it. The watering of baskets should be done eaj^fuUy as often as required. If a basket is allowed to dry up, its beauty is gone forever. The soil should be ex- amined every day, and if the surface appears dry, water must be given. How often water should be applied depends, first, on the size of the basket; and second, on the position the basket occu- pies. If exposed to the sun, the wind, or the open air, the evaporation of water will be rapid, and during a very warm day it may be necessary to water twice. If the basket hangs in a shady, cool, and pi'otected locality, it requires less water, and perhaps twice a week will be sufficient. During summer, frequent watering and sprinkling of the foliage is desirable. During winter, the basket should be kept comi:)aratively dry; not so much so as to endanger the life of the plants, but enough water must be given to keep up their good appearance. However, with all the care possible, it is not supposed that a hanging bas- ket will keep in fine condition forever. Sometimes new soil will be required, and also new plants. I think a basket kept in good condition for twelve to eighteen months, has done all that may reason- ably be expected. Some plants, of course, will keep much longer than others; for instance, if a basket is fill- ed with nothing but Ivies of diiferent kinds, it may be kept in fine condition for three to five years ; if planted with certain kinds of hardy Ferns, its good appearance may be kept up for two or three j-ears; but if a variety of foliage and flowering - plants is used, which is calculated to give a rich and elegant apjoearance to a basket, it will be neces- sary to give a thorough overhauling of soil and plants every year. Wire baskets should be watered by placing the basket in a bucket of water, submerging it to the rim of the basket for about five minutes. This may be done in summer once or twice a week, and in winter once every two weeks. An occasional sprinkling of the foliage, to wash ofi:" the dust and to give it a lighter and fresher appearance, is very desirable. Space will not allow me at this time to speak of the most suitable plants for baskets, but I will endeavor to make it a special subject for the next number of the Horticulturist. The span of the gi-eat Rotunda of the exhibition building at Vienna is over one hundred and ten yards, or double the size of the dome of St. Peter's, at Rome. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 295 HOW TO GROW THE GLADIOLUS. An old florist in the Sural Home, in commendation of this noble flower, wbicli is so chaste in beauty, so striking in appearance, and so popular among amateur gardeners, gives directions how to plant and grow it. They are quite sensible. In the first place, Gladioli like an open position; that is to say, they do not thrive so well if surrounded b}' shrub- bery or large trees. At the same time they should not be planted in an ex- posed situation. It is also essential to bear in mind that they are liable to de- teriorate if grown for several years in the same bed without the soil being re- newed. Therefore, endeavor to change them from one bed to another every year. Some years ago I grew them for several seasons in the same bed — giving it every year a portion of new soil and removing some of the old. That plan, however, entailed so much labor that I gave it up ; and I incline to believe that the more choice varieties become soil- sick; that is to say, they like a change every two or three years at least. At all events, I have fewer losses among the bulbs since I have changed their quar- ters more frequently, than I had before. It is also quite certain that larger spikes and stouter individual blooms of a de- cidedly different color, are obtained. The beds are filled up fifteen inches in depth with sound mellow loam, to which a heavy dressing of short rotten manure is added. Early in autumn the soil is laid up rough for the winter. It is de- sirable to take care that a good layer of dung is put at the bottom of the bed, if you want large and perfect exhibition spikes, and the depth of color and the freshness which so enchant every ob- server. It is no use to attempt a high state of cultivation in a soil through which the water can not percolate freely. The main points in their culture are an open position and a free, generous soil, suflicientl}' drained to prevent stag- nant water about their roots. Another important matter is, to see that the sur- face of the bed is properly mulched with some material that will prevent evaporation, and at the same time pre- vent the surface soil from becoming, baked and hard by the action of the sun. For beds that are in the mt)re dressy j)art of the garden, there is noth- ing to equal the cocoanut fibre refuse for mulching. Sometimes I must use half-rotten dung, and at others short grass from the lawn, according as either of these materials may be at hand. When short grass is used, two or three applications are necessary in very hot summers, as it is soon withered up. It is a mistake to mulch them with manure under the supposition that the plants derive much benefit from it, because, owing to the roots being so deep, the fertilizing properties of the dung can not reach them, even if the sun and air did not act upon it, and soon dry it up. For this reason, there should be somethinsf substantial in the soil for them to feed upon, without being dependent upon the surface dressings or liquid manure. With respect to neatly staking the spikes, and carefully attending to them to prevent the wind from doing the flowers harm, it is not needful to dwell at any great length, so I will abruptly close this article by stating tliat the cul- tivator must not hurry the bulbs to rest if he desires to keep them safely through the winter. As the seasons differ in their general features, no fixed time can be safely given for lifting the bulbs. The foliage should be quite yellow be- fore they are taken up; and I would rather let them taste the cold than have them out of the ground too long. It is 296 THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. my candid opinion, that in man}' cases the disease, so-called, is nothing more or less than a debilitated constitution brought on by the bulbs being so long out of the ground. Australian Method of Cooling Water. Large buckets of canvas, says the Bul- letin da Masee, are made about four feet high and fifteen inches in diameter. A bag of linen or flannel stretched across the' top serves as a sieve ; and a siphon, a canvass tub, and a wooden cock in- serted below the level of the water, are used to draw off the contents. These reservoirs are suspended to branches of trees in shady places, and exposed to the light breezes which in summer al- ways exist in Australia. From the damp surface of the vessels a rapid evapora- tion takes place, which keeps the water within at a temperature much lower than that of the surrounding air. The ed- itor of the Scientific American, com- menting on the above, says: This ar- rangement is on the same principle as the water jars, or " monkeys," used in tropical countries and the east of Eu- rope. The latter are merely unglazed earthenware jugs, having a very small neck and a spout. We have never seen them used in the United States, but should imagine that during the summer months, and particularly in event of ice famines, such as we have been threat- ened with during the past two years, they might be advantageously em- ployed. The jars may be made by any potter from ordinary clay at a very small expense. By suspending them in a current of air, the water within is kept during the hottest weather at a delicious coolness, and at a temperature much more healthful than that produced by the copious use of ice. The vessels may be molded in fancy shapes, so as to be ornamental for table use. MAllSHALL PINCKNEY WILDER. BY K. J. HOOPER. We have the pleasure this month of presenting to our readers an excellent likeness of the distinguished President of the American Pomological Society, whose sessions are held, this year, at Boston, Mass. Mr. Wilder has now filled this high and honorable position in the horticultural world for twenty- four years. He has possessed from very early boyhood an ardent admiration of the beautiful in Nature, and has always been one of the warmest lovers of rural pursuits and of country life. His par- ents, who were among the earliest set- tlers of his native State, on account of his lively temperament, and strength and precocity of intellect, were desirous that he should have the advantages of a very liberal education; but he — hav- ing but little love for the confinement of a college life, and the close study of the ancient classics or higher mathe- matics, but greatly preferring the wild sports of the country and the healthy and more useful exercises of the farm — became a youthful farmer upon his fa- ther's old homestead. It seems, how- ever, that he was more, needed in the mercantile business of his father than on the farm, and he thus ultimately be- came a merchant in Boston, and event- ually an prominent one — a leading man in banking and insurance institu- tions, and a colonel in a military com- pany. He would doubtless have attained high elevation in political matters, had he so desired; but, after having repre- sented his neighbors in the Legislature of Massachusetts, and been chosen State Senator, and also elected President of the Senate, he, Cincinnatus-like, great- ly preferring the comforts of rural life and domestic tranquillity as mo]-e con- genial to his taste, relinquished the THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 297 turmoil of political life, and devoted as much time as be had at command to Agriculture, Horticulture, and kindred arts. In 1849, he became the President of the Norfolk County Agricultui-al So- ciety. In 1850, the Governor of the Commonwealth appointed him Chair- man of the Massachusetts Commission to the World's Fair in London ; and, in 1853, as another acknowledgment of his agricultural and horticultural services, he was appointed a Commissioner of the Industry of All Nations, in the Crj's- tal Palace in New York City. He was also appointed by the Royal Pomo- logical Society of Belgium — a govern- ment institution — the Commissioner for America. He likewise became the main promoter of the Agricultural College established at Amherst, and was elected President of the Massachusetts State Board of Agriculture, and became after- ward, during a period of eleven years, a member, by apj)ointment, of the Gov- ernor's Council. In addition to all these honors — having suggested a na- tional convention of cultivators — he was elected the first President of the United States Agricultural Society, which was organized at Washington, D. C. , in 1852. Under his administra- tion was instituted the ' ' Great National Field-trial of Reapers and Mowers," at Syracuse, N. Y. — the first of the kind in the world. We need not say that Col. Wilder, as a horticulturist and pomologist, has a world-wide reputa- tion. We must not omit also to state that he was elected fourth President of the Massachusetts Horticultural Soci- ety, at its eleventh annual meeting in 1840. Col. Wilder has delivered almost in- numerable addresses before the Ameri- can Pomological Society in many cities. In one of these he said: " Our trees — from the opening bud to the golden harvest — from the laying-oflf of their gay autumnal livery, and during their rest in winter's shroud, waiting a resurrec- tion to a new and superior life — are all eloquent preachers, proclaiming to our inmost soul, ' The hand that made us is Divine.' Taught by their counsels, who does not admire the wisdom, perfection, and beauty of this fair creation? — the tiny bad, incased in coats of mail so that the rude blasts may not visit it too roughly, rivaling in its mechanism the human eye, and destined to perpetuate its own species distinctive as the soul of man — the enameled blossom unfolding her virgin bosom to the warm embrace of vernal air, bespangling the orchard with starry spray scarcely less beautiful than the glittering host of night, dancing in rainbow hues, and flinging on the breeze a fragrance richer than the spioes of Ceylon's Isles, sweet harbinger of beau- tiful harvest — the luscious fruits, God's best gift to man, save woman — the melt- ing Pear, of rough or polished rind, with sweetest honeyed flavor — the bur- nished Apple, tempting the human taste, from the mother of our race to her last fair daughter — the royal Grape, cluster- ing beneath its bower of green, making glad the heart of man — the brilliant Cherry, suffused with loveliest tints of rose and white, or d3'ed in deepest in- carnadine— the velvet Peach, mantled with beauty's softest blush, and vying with the orieucy of the morning — the deliciouii Plum, veiled with silvery bloom over robes of azure, purple, or cloth of vegetable gold." In the course of his address before the same society at Boston, in 1862, Mr. Wilder uttered these characteristic words: "O, let me be remembered in some beautiful flower, some graceful 298 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. tree, some luscious fruit! 0, yes, far better than storied monument or sculp- tured urn, let me be remembered as one who labored to adorn and improve tlie earth — to promote the pleasure and welfare of those who are to follow me!" In this resj)ect, we are happy to say, he has been gratified, as some seedling- flowers bear his name, and also the ex- cellent President Wilder Strawberry. We had the pleasure of a visit from him and other leading Horticultvirists, to this coast, in the summer of 1870; and though he is beyond three-score years and ten, he is so well preserved that we yet hope to see him here again. We can not close this, our imj)erfect notice of so elevated and good a man, without quoting a passage from the Boston Journal of Horticulture: "During his leisure hours, he has filled several large folio volumes with his own sketches, delineations, and de- scriptions of fruits, proved under his personal inspection. This has been the work of a long life. He continues these investigations daily; and it is to be hoped that the public may have the benefit of these studies. He has made the Pear a specialty. His collection of Pears embraces every variety, foreign and native, of note; to which he adds the novelties of every year. Having a correspondence with the most distin- guished pomologists of Europe and America, he receives annually all such as are worthy of notice. His collection embraces 2,500 bearing trees — probably 3,000 by this time; and he has had, during his life, more than 800 varieties of the Pear on his grounds. Among plants, the Camellia has been his spe- cialty. He has many hundreds of va- rieties, thousands of plants, and more than a thousand seedlings — some of which bear the names of himself and family — which he raised from seed ob- tained by hybridization, of which he has given a published account." After all that has been thus said, it seems hardly worth while for the hum- ble writer of this to say that he has personally known Col. Wilder's worth, benevolence, public spirit, patriotism, pure morals, amiability, friendship, courtesy, and shining talents, for up- wards of thirty years, and has the pleasure, from time to time, of receiving letters from him, ofi"ering his hospitali- ties, and cheering, encouraging, and sympathizing with him in his compara- tively poor efi'orts to follow in the Colo- nel's illustrious footsteps. EL ESPIRITO SANTO. This plant, which bears a flower of such rare conformature, and a name of so much significance, but seldom finds its way to our conservatories, and is en- tirely unknown to many of our flower- loving friends. Few persons visit in its tropical haunts, and it is only occasion- ally brought here by chance hands, as a choice gift, or as a matter of curiosity. In these days of "rapid transit," its home in the secluded forests of Central America can not be considered very re- mote, and it could be easily secured by our florists and incorporated in their selections . It has the distinction of be- ing rare, pretty, and peculiar, and would be a valuable and lovely addition to their floral families. It is my good for- tune to possess two j^lants of this spe- cies, and they, like Cornelia's children, are "my jewels." They were brought to me from Aspinwall, in midsummer, carelessly planted in a tin box, the bulbs but half concealed in their native soil, which was porous and sand3\ As they were in bud, I left them undisturbed until after they were through flowering. At that time thev could not claim to be THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 299 " thing's of beauty," as they were almost entirel}'- leafless, only one possessing a portion of a ribbed and tattered leaf, while the flower stems were long, twisted and devoid of grace; but each bore aloft twelve buds, which to my expectant vision covered all other deficiencies and " hid a multitude of sins." When un- believing and scornful spectators pro- fanely compared the plants to "old corn-stalks," I exultingly pointed to the clustering buds, and bade them " stand and wait." My anxiety and impatience to behold the flower were soon rewarded, for the largest of the green and waxy- looking buds grew and unfolded with great rapidity ; it was marvelous to see the sudden change in their color, from green to white, and a bud which had seemed sealed at night by morning had fully opened its heart, revealing a pure and lovely dove nestling there. In shape, the likeness was very exact and perfect; its breast was spotless, but its wings, which were expanded and up- right, were dotted with dark crimson; the head, which was pure and white, was slightly inclined forward toward its breast, and with its little bill of a deli- cate yellow color, and tiny dots for eyes, was " entire, wanting nothing." Four thick white petals held and supported this beautiful emblem of the H0I3' Spirit. While contemplating this fair and love- ly flower, the name did not sound irreverent, and it seemed to me that the Spaniard pronounced the right title when he called it, in his beautiful mu- sical language, "El Espirito Santo." The native, with religious and poetic in- stinct, sees in it the type of the sacred Spirit that spreads its silver Avings in all hearts that are pure and undefiled. The flowers did not soon wither or fade, and I had the pleasure of watching them unfolding and blooming for sev- eral weeks; they fully atoned for absence of foliage and want of comeliness in the plant, and excited much enthusiasm among those who had derided the "pa- rent stalk." When I received these plants I was entirely ignorant of their former surroundings, and of the proper method of culture, but concluded, as they came from a tropical country, they must need great heat and be kept in the very warmest place I could give them, and I made an almost fatal mistake in exposing them to the fierce glare of the summer sun. I found, after a few hours exposure to this heat, that such of the buds as were near opening, or had partially opened, were shriveled and withered bej'ond recovery. I hastily removed them to the shelter of the shrubbery, where they were screened from the sun, and so saved the remain- der of " my doves." I afterward learned from the pei'son who brought them to me, that these specimens were natives of the woods on the Isthmus, and flourished in the deep tangle of tropical growth, and could not, there- fore, bear dry heat. As soon as my bulbs ceased to flower, they were trans- l^lanted separately, and I am hoping for a re-aj^pearance of my pretty flock, as I believe they blossom once a j^ear. I find that they need a light rich soil, abundance of moisture, and plenty of reflected heat, but can not endure ex- posure to the direct rays of the sun while they are hlooming.— Ladies' Flo- ral Cabinet. GuTTA - Percha Cement. — Dissolve as much gutta-percha in a mixture of ten parts of bisuli^hide of carbon with one of oil of turpentine, as will make a thick mass. Clean the leather to be united from all grease, heat the surfaces before applying the cement, and dry under pressure. 300 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. AMARYLLIS. BY F. A. MILLER. This is a very charming class of sum- mer-flowering bulbs, tbough I am sorry to say but very few of tbem are culti- vated here. However, they are begin- ning to attract attention, and I am sure that they will find their way before long into every conservatory and garden. There are now some thirty different species, and as many more varieties, cultivated in the various floral estab- lishments of Europe, all of which are good. Most of them are natives of Brazil, and like a moderately warm cli- mate, such as we have here in Califor- nia. While some of them arrive more readily to perfection if treated under glass, there are others which, like the Lily or the Tulip, succeed best in the open air. A deep sandy soil, enriched with old manure, suits them very well. Their roots require room to spread, and therefore must have good-sized pots if cultivated in the house. Amaryllis bulbs should have a season of rest; but, unlike the Hyacinth and Tulip, they should never be allowed to lose all their foliage, which renders it necessary to water them sparingly when they are at rest. If they are cultivated in pots, they should be allowed to rest from autumn until March, when they should be placed in a warm situation. As soon as they develop new leaves they require more water, the application of which should be increased as the plant develops itself. Insects are very hard on the Amar- yllis, and to keep them clean of these, is half the battle. The Amaryllis is propagated by side- roots, which are formed in abundance. It may also be raised from seed, but this process is a rather slow one. * Natural order, Amaryllidece. If they are cultivated in the open ground they will not require any par- ticular attention. With cultivation of the soil around them, and with protec- tion from strong winds, they may be ex- pected to do well. Some of the best varieties are : A. longifolia rosea, an excellent vari- ety, flowering abundantly. A. longifolia Jlore alba, also very de- sirable and eflective. A. belladonna, several good varieties. A. alamasco, flowers white, and good bloomer. A. criifpa, flower of a rose color. A. formosissima, flowering very abun- dantly, flowers of a rich crimson color. A. imrpurea {Vallola purpurea), one of the very best ; its most brilliant scar- let flowers are very ornamental. Pruning Roses. — "Ruralist" writes to the Rural New Yorker as follows: As soon as the frost is out of the ground in spring, and hard freezing weather is past, I commence to prune my Roses. I suppose that every one who has noticed the varying habits of Roses knows the difterent species or classes require difierent treatment with the pruning knife. All kinds of sum- mer or June Roses, as they are usually termed, such as Damask, Prairie, Moss, and French, should have the old canes occasionally removed; that is, those that have produced flowers one, two, or three years. Also, all weak, slender branches and canes may be removed, allowing only sufiicient to give the plant a good form. The largest and most perfect flowers are usually produced upon the strongest one-year-old canes, and these may be shortened with benefit. Hybiid Perpetuals should also have their canes shortened, and the weak, feeble branch- es should be cut away, and as a rule, THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 301 the weaker the shoot the more severely it should be pruned. Six to twelve inches is long enough for side branches on Hybiid Perpetuals grown as tree or half standards. With Tea-scented, Noisettes, and Bourbons, there is little danger of pruning too severely, because it is the young shoots that produce the flowers, and the more vigorous these start and grow, the more abundant will be the blooms. There is little use to leave a quantity of long, slender shoots upon a plant, expecting that they will produce as many or as perfect flowers as a few strong ones. After Monthly Roses have produced their first crops of flow- ers in summer, a second may be hastened by cutting back the blooming shoots. The Balloon Vine. — ( Cardiospermum halicacahinn.)— This climbing annual is a native of Florida and Texas, and grows freely in the tropical portions of the country. Its specific name is the Greek term for another plant, but was applied to this vine by Linnseus. It be- longs to the same family as that of the Horse Chestnut, Bladder-nut, etc., and is a vei'y interesting plant, and an esjie- cial . favorite with children, because, ■when they crush the rijoe seed, they burst with an explosive sound. Its delicate foliage, and the peculiar character of the fruit, recommend the vine to all those who desire low running vines. In its wild state it runs along the ground, or over small shrubs, but when cultivated, it will grow six feet or more in height. Its leaves are hand- somely serrated, and are thin in texture, while the flowers are very minute, and grow in axillary clusters, each bearing hooked tendrils, which enable the plant to fasten itself to supports. The fruit is inclosed in a large blad- dery capsule, with a single seed in each Vol. III.— 39. of the three divisions, and each seed is marked with a heart-shaped spot which gave it its name, Cardiospermum, or Heart-seed. Like all other tender annuals, it will vegetate much better if the seeds are sown in a hot bed. — Ladies' Floral Cabinet. GROUPING TEEES AND EVERGREENS IN LAWNS AND PARKS. BY E. J. HOOPEK. A lawn or park without trees has al- most as cold and dreary an apj^earance as some of the barren and parched-up hills of California have, devoid of vege- tation of any kind except perhaps a few wild flowers, beautiful undoubtedly as these are; hence, all landscape garden- ers plant lawns and parks more or less with trees, either single, in groups, or in clumps. A large single tree, for ex- ample, a fine specimen of our Cahfornia White Oak, is an object that has from all ages been regarded by mankind with admiration, for its grandeur, beauty, and usefulness. Hence, in all ages, man has either allowed a few of the wild denizens of the j^lains, forests, and groves, (which he has cleared for cultivating purposes) to remain for shel- ter and ornament to his dwelling and grounds; or, if none existed, as in some parts of California, he has j^lanted for the same purpose. Not only was this ad- mu-ation for and use of trees prevalent in the old times, but it is still more practiced in the present. But unfortunately only deciduous trees will attain such magni- tude as to be beautiful and effective objects in landscape, in less than half a century in most parts of the world (al- though we may in this respect except to a considerable degree our Pacific slope, where vegetation grows so much more rapidly than in most other coun- 302 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. tries). It is desirable, even liere, in order to obtain effect more speedilj^, to plant most of our trees of all kinds in groups, and protect tliem from cattle, till they have grown so tall as to be out of their reach. A group may consist of only a couple of trees, or the number may be extended to half a dozen, or even nine trees, all of which may be arranged in different forms, so that each may have a distinct character. To attain facility in thus arranging requires considerable knowledge and skill, and a jorescient eye to the effect of different combinations of figure in groui:)s, with diversity in kinds of trees employed, to produce a jirede- termined character in the scene. I would advise those who are about to improve new ground to consult with or employ a well -trained and naturally tasty professional landscape gardener — such as F. A. Miller, for instance — (who does not know of this recommendation, and would probably object to it if he were cognizant of it). But, of course, he has made this matter in Horticulture one of his studies. The greatest beauty of a group of trees is, as far as respects their stems, the different forms they take as they grow into trees. Some, for example, grow quite upright, if ever so close to- gether; others take a slanting direction, w^hilst in some groups, one tree will grow quite upright, and its neighbor will push out in aii almost horizontal position. These different arrangements, or appearances, may be attained in va- rious ways, by planting in different dis- tances from each other. A very pretty group has often been obtained by plant- ing two or three trees in one hole, and allowing them to grow naturally, just as they pleased. Great diversity of character may bfe given to groups of trees, and the greater the number (within bounds) of trees, the greater variety of position, and consequently character, may be attained- The grand object of group-planting, however, is connecting the gx-oups to- gether in various views, and, at the same time, leaving a sufficient breadth of the grassy part of the park open for grazing. Grouj^s should always be con- nected in the distance with the natural woods, groves, or belts, but should never be planted in the deep sinuosi- ties of the margin of such a mass of trees ; they should rather be placed near to the projecting swells, and by that position they will seem, in differ- ent views of them, to form a part of, and increase the depth of, the natural grove or belt. In such a position, a single tree should be planted beyond the group into the park, still more to increase that character. Single trees, in general, are very objectionable. It has been, I am sorry to say, a \erj com- mon practice by many planters to in- troduce into park scenery a great num- ber of these single trees, with a view of effecting a character which can only be obtained by grouping. I once witnessed in the East an example on a large scale of this dotting with single trees. The planter was not content^with planting the trees (Oaks) singly, and at equal distances, but he actually planted every one of them on large hillocks, three or four feet above the surface. The insi- pidity and absurdity of this dotting ar- rangement was absolutely sickening. How differently Nature arranges the group, the glade, and the thicket, every lover of rural or forest scenery is aware. Let such formal landscape gardeners go into the wild woods and groves, and observe some of our best natural and even artificial places and i)arks in California, where groups of noble trees abound, and let them study and leflect whether the sprinkling and dotting of THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 303 trees will ever produce such fine effects. The kind of trees for grouping de- pends much upon the soil and situation. In high dry soils, the Scotch Fir, the Elm, the Silver -leaved Poj^lar, Euea- lypt, with some of the Australian Ever- greens, Acacias, and Pepper-tree. In lower situations, the Oak and the Ash, with some of the Pine tribe, form fine groups. But nearly all trees do well here and in almost any situation. In planting them, I would advise each groujD to be of one kind, bv very nearly so. An outside tree of a very large group may be of a different sort, to give variety ; and that outside tree should be next to an adjoining group of the same kind, which would give the idea that it had straggled from it. Some groups should have the tallest trees in the centre, and the outside, or points, should be lower, or branched to the ground. Other groups, by way of di- verse character, should have the centre the lowest, so as to appear like two groups united by low trees. In fact, the great aim of the planter should be to have every group of as different a character as possible from its neighbor. You never see, in old parks in Europe or America, or wild forest lands, two grovips alike. The undulations of the ground, in the park or lawn, will generally give the planter opportunities of placing his groups in good positions. The tongue of a piece of elevated ground is a good position for a group, or on the side of a rising ground will answer for one or more admirably, especially if there is a mass of natural groves on the top; only avoid all stiffness and formality, not only in the number of trees in each group, but also the distance from each other, and the masses of which they are to seem a part in various points of view. WEEDS. [Concluded from page 204.] But I fear that I may be giving a wrong impression about foreign weeds. It is a fact that many of the most trouble- some weeds of this country are foreign importations. More than this, the same is true of most countries settled by Eu- ropeans during the last few centuries. It is so in South America, in Australia and New Zealand, in St. Helena, and elsewhere. Introduced weeds spread, and more or less choke out the old na- tive species. I have illustrated how fast some European plants have sj^read in America. There are just as marked ex- amples of American plants spreading over the Old World. The Evening Prim- rose {(Enothera biennis) is here a coarse, roadside weed, rather common, yet sel- dom abundant. It was, perhaps, car- ried abroad as an ornament or curiosity. It has spread over much of Europe, crossed the Bosphorus, and is traveling eastward across Central Asia. Mean- while it is spreading northward from India and westward from China. It is widely known in Africa, in Australia, New Zealand, the Sandwich Islands, and I know not how much farther. As we see it growing in waste places here, among other weeds, if asked to pick out the plant most likely to spread, it would, perhaps, be the last one we would gviess as the one to thus wander over the earth, and thrive in such varied circumstances. I have been giving you two classes of facts side by side ; one showing how fast foreign weeds sometimes spread in countries not their home ; the other, how few true weeds become eradicated after they once have a good foothold. I told you at the start that I had no golden rule by which we could gain an easy victory over them. But our labor 304 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. can overcome them, and hold them in check, even though we may not rid our- selves entirely of them. How shall we fight them to the best advantage? Well, we must vary our treatment according to the kind we have to deal with. No kind should be allowed to go to seed if one can help it. With them, as with most of our plants, the leaves are the organs in which the sap is changed, where the processes go on which have been compared to both digestion and breathing in animals ; and, moreover, they are the organs that take in certain elements from the air. Hence, deprive them of these organs; cut them, hoe them, dig them; where a green leaf appears kill it if we can. This is usually most eftective when the plants are young, but sometimes it is most so when the plant is in its most vigorous growth. This is particularly so of those plants whose roots are per- ennial. I once knew a man to sell the secret of "how to kill Canada thistles." The price of the valuable knowledge was ten dollars. The secret was, to cut them on the fifteenth day of June and the fifteenth day of September. In that locality, these were the dates when the first and second crops were usually just coming into flower, and the plant in most vigorous growth, and some sea- sons I have seen large patches subdued by this treatment. A better rule would have been to cut them just as the earli- est heads were in bloom, whatever might have been the day of the month, or the age of the moon. Your secretary has brought in here some of your most common weeds. Two that he says are quite troublesome here, I have never heard of being trouble- some elsewhere. One of them I have spoken of. The other he calls White Bush, and says it is bad for sheep. It is the Andromeda liguslrina of botanists. A diflferent shrub is usually known as White Bush in other localities. The others are of varying degrees of trouble- somencss, and need treatment accord- ing to the species. (Their names were given, with some remarks about each.) In closing, I can only repeat what I have already said; that weeds must be fought; if we yield they will soon con- quer our crops. It is one of the ways man has to struggle with Nature, and probably always will. We are told that when Adam was expelled from that fa- vored garden where we infer there were no weeds, he had to till the ground where "thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee," and I fear that this will be the lot of the latest of his descendants who chance to be farmers. We know that with labor and a constant fight we ma}' hold them in reasonable check, but after this very labor, good tillage in other respects must follow. Let us then keep up the fight, as cheer- fully as we can, remembering that "eternal vigilance is" not only "the price of liberty," but is also the price of clean land. Facts About the Siphon. — In June last, John Wells of Truxton, Cortland Co.,N. Y., laid a half inch lead pij^e ac- cording to the following survey bill : The ground rises from the sj^ring in a distance of 34 rods 10 links, 17 feet 5 inches; from thence, in a distance of 65 rods, there is a fall of 30 feet, leaving a balance of 12 feet 7 inches below the spring. Ever since the water was started with a pump, it has run a steady and beautiful stream. In covering the pipe, sawdust was first put on, to j^re- vent sharp stones from cutting or other- wise injuring it. Before covering, all defects in the pipe Avere carefully mended. — Rural New Yorker. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 305 YUCCAS AS ORNAMENTAL PLANTS. Yuccas are all more or less showy plants, belonging to the great Lily fam- ily. For many years I have been rais- ing seedlings of our hardy native species, not onl}' because I admire them as ornamental j^lants, but by adopting this mode of propagation one stands a chance of joroducing new and improved varieties. I have at this moment sev- eral dozen seedlings of the Yucca fila- mentosa in i\x\i bloom, and this spring flowers produced on stems five or sis feet high are not surpassed in elegance by anything in my garden at this time. The flowers are mainly pure white, al- though an occasional variety will be found with a slight yellow -green or reddish tinge. In form they are usually oval, the ends of the petals turning back only when the flowers are nearly ready to drop off. They also vary some- what in size and form. I have raised varieties of the species named above with flowers that were perfectly globu- lar in form and not more than an inch in diameter, and others that were two or more inches in length and expand- ing about the same. A good, vigorous stem will produce from 200 to iiOO flowers. The plant is evergreen, the leaves are about an inch and a half wide and a foot or more in length, from the edges of which hang numerous thread-like filaments, hence the specific -na.vae—filamenlosa. This species is found growing in Virginia, south and west- ward to Texas, and is known by several local names, such as Bear-grass, Adam's Needle, etc., etc. There are several local wild varieties, which were des- cribed by our early botanists as distinct species. The narrow - leaved Yucca ( Yucca anguslifolia ) grows in great abundance on the plains west of the Mississippi. It is smaller than the former, the leaves not more than a half inch wide, distinctly edged with white. The flowers are yellowish-white. It is quite hardy in our Northern States, and well worthy of a place in every garden. There are also many other species, natives of the extreme South and Mex- ico, not hardy at the North. The seeds are borne in large pods and several hundreds in each. They are flat and thin, resembling in form those of our common Lilies. The plants may be propagated by division of the large, fleshy, tuberous roots, but I prefer to grow them from seed for the sake of variety. The seed grows almost as read- ily as corn, and may be sown in the fall or spring. The plants require consid- erable room, therefore it is well to transplant the seedlings when a year old, placing them at least two or three feet apart. As the plants come into bloom just after the first flush of spring flowers is past, they are welcome addi- tions to our gardens. ALFALFA HAY — HOW TO CUEE IT. A writer in a Sacramento, Cal., pa- per says : As many farmers are cutting Alfalfa for hay who have had no prac- tical experience in curing the same, a few words of instruction may not be out of the way. In the first place, to make good hay, the Alfalfa should be sown so thick on the ground that its stalks will crowd each other, and thus be forced to grow somewhat spindling. A single bunch of Alfalfa grown from a seed placed in the ground so as to have a plenty of room to stool, will produce large, coarse stalks, and if allowed to stand and mature its seed these stalks become almost like dry sticks. In this condition the hay becomes comparative- ly of but little value. Therefore the seed should be sown so thick as to 306 THE CALrFOE^^A HORTICULTURIST. cause a pretty even growth all over the ground, and to create a pretty strong sod. The stalks will then be thin and slender, and the leaves will bear a good proportion to the stalks themselves. Alfalfa should be cut as soon as it has fairly commenced to blossom, and should be allowed to remain spread up- on the ground as left by the mower only long enough to wilt it well. It should then be raked into winrows and allowed to remain in this condition only long enough to guard against heating when put into the cock. It should then be put into the cock and dried so as to prevent heating and mildewing when in the stack, and no more. When packed in the stack or mow it should be sprink- led with salt pretty freely — say two or three pounds to a ton. Alfalfa cured in this way is among the most valuable varieties of hay we have for horses, cattle or sheep. Those who have fed their working teams upon it have found it to be fully as nutritious as the best of oat hay. "When horses have become accustomed to eating it they will prefer it to all other kinds. For milch cows good Alfalfa hay is next to green grass in value, and sheei^ will eat it when they would leave oat or barley hay. Our own experience in feeding stock of all kinds has been con- siderable, and we do not hesitate to pronounce good Alfalfa hay more hearty and nutritious than the other varieties of hay now in this State. While we make this assertion, we are fully aware that there are those whose experience has been equally as great as our own who differ with us. The reason of this difference arises more from the manner of curing and handling the hay than from any other circumstance. If allowed to be dried in the sun as spread out on the ground by the reaper, the stalk not only becomes diT and brittle and loses much of the gluti and sac- charine matter that it nairally con- tains, but the leaf almost enrely drops off, even while handling it s ficiently to transfer it into the barn. ; then it is handled over to bale and^eud it to market there is nothing b dry sticks left, and it is justly cond( ned. The great secret in making goo' Alfalfa hay is in the time of cutting ai manner of curing. ♦♦ » — FORESTS AND PRESETS. At the current meeting n Portland of the American Associatioi Dr. Hough, of Albany, read a paper oi -he raiu-fall and its relations to fore.^. He had carefully analyzed the reirns of the rain-gauge for a term n ouuting to 2,000 years, and from the; he had at- tempted to deduce a la of secular changes in the fall of wa v. But the returns did not justify it They show marked variations from ar to year, and reveal in-egularities a many locali- ties, and they also indie; 3 great ten- dency to drought for ycrs together. Dr. Hough strongly reiuf ces the doc- trine of the relation of rests to the flooding of streams, and : so fat bears out the argument of the fate Comuiis- sioner in reference to th' preservation of the Adirondack woods In a cleared country the water flows uickly away to the streams; these a at once at high - water mark, and the a season fol- lows when water is not o be found. The actual effect of the .aporation of rain - drops on the leaves ad the chem- ical action which goes on a the plant is obvious in the humiditj md tempera- ture of the atmosphere -n lere trees ex- ist. One can observe tJ3 in a casual glance at open fields; e sun -burnt look of one which is tre^ ^ss is in con- trast with the fresh and ^rnal appear- ble£taii»«l^' MOKW »* • lif.i:--.:' " d(Kll in tit ftqr ■ 3 ■' ' . Of hit <*lls ^ rfll-li ^", •^ •MStlHw.. It;; n • ipjn^ )1«(T •^0.1 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 307 ance of the inclosure in which clumps of trees are found. Houses shaded by trees are damper than those not so pro- tected. In the di'iest season, one who walks in the country will notice a sensi- ble change in passing from a treeless waste to the vicinity of a forest or into the forest itself. The necessity of tree-preservation for economic uses can not be overrated. The supply of lumber is rapidly failing. In Europe the forests are regulated by law, and crops of trees are harvested in rotation and upon a definite and pre- arranged system. France has altogether 13,22G square miles of protected forest. The code by which they are governed dates from the time of Colbert, who was a master hand in regulation and state interference. He showed as great wis- dom in this code as in any other branch of his system of administration. By the Colbert Code, "Oaks were not to be felled till ripe, that is, able to pros- per another thirty years." The French have carried their system to Algeria, and have already added several rainy days to July and August. In this coun- try, the French system is impossible. The state owns no forests, and the work of preservation and careful husbanding must proceed from the people. One generation will plant for another, and the small sapling of to-day will be a forest monarch fifty or a hundred years hence. No crop would be more valua- ble ; no investment more certain. As Dr. Hough says: "It must come to be understood that a tree or a forest plant- ed is an investment of capital, increas- ing annually in value as it grows — like money at interest — and worth any time what it has cost, including the expense of planting, and the interest which this money would have earned at the given date." Waste spots should be planted and the increased value of farms, whose roadsides are lined with trees, should be made apparent to all. There is wealth, and health, and comfort in this suggestion. Ostrich Feathers. — Ostrich feathers, in commerce, are classed in the follow- ing order, as regards value: First, those coming from Mogadore; second, those from Egypt and Barbary ; and third, the South African or Cape feathers, for which Graham's Town is the central market. These are long, and, there- fore, are esteemed for many purposes, but have not the delicacy and elegance of the barbules of the North African feathers. The Aleppo feathers used to be considered the type of pei'fection of Ostrich feathers, but they are now so scarce as to be seldom met with in com- merce. For the " bous" or tail feathers of the Ostrich there is an enormous de- mand, and perhaps more of this kind are sold than any other. Northern and Southern Africa are the quarters from whence su^^plies are obtained. There are feather merchants in Mogadore and other Barbary States, who are in com- munication with all the districts of the desert where the bird is found. The price of Ostrich feathers in a series of years — taking into account quality and demand — ranges from $40 u^? to $275 the pound weight; but their first cost is, of course, much lower. The import trade in England is in comparatively few hands. There were received in 1870 G6,0G3 pounds of Ostrich feathers, of which more than half were black Os- trich. Vulture plumes, or "bastard Ostrich," as they are called in trade, are employed in large quantities in France, and form the most important branch of the commerce in feathers there. They are obtained from the American Ostrich ( Rhea Americana ), 308 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. ■which inhabits chiefl}'^ the j'jampas and vast jilains of Patagonia, the Argentine Confederation, and the adjoining re- publics. It is smnller than the true African Ostrich, is without a tail, and the feathers are not of the same rich and costly kind. The Patagonians and Indians make plumes, parasols, and many beautiful ornaments of them. The feathers are imported in the rough from South America, under the distinction of large and small Vulture. The for- mer are commercially known as "dry" or "white foot," the lower part of the plume being white, and the head black. They are used for coiffures, the white part in its natural state, or dyed some light color, and the dark part as black. The bad feathers are worked up into plumeaux or dusting -brushes. The small Vulture feathers are exclusivel} used for head-dresses, and are rather higher in price than the large ones. SEA KALE. Cr-amhe marilima, 15th class, Telra- dynamia of Linnseus, and nat. order Gruciferce of Bernard de Jusseau. A native of Britain. A perennial; one of the names applied by the Greeks to the Cabbage, and especially to the marine Cabbage. Crambe maritima grows on sandy shores in the west of England, and there the common people have from time immemorial been in the practice of watching when the shoots and leaf stalks begin to push up the sand in March and April, when they cut them off under ground, as is done in g-ather- ing Asparagus, and boil them as greens. About the middle of the last century the plant was introduced into gardens, grown in deep sandy soil, and blanched either by sand, ashes, litter, or by cov- ering by flower pots, earthen pots made on purpose, or any opaque cover. It is almost as universal in good gardens as Asparagus, and like it, is forced either by taking up the roots, and planting them on a hot-bed or in the border of a forcing-house, or by covering or sur- rounding them in the ojjen garden. Be- fore covering with warm litter, each plant, or stool of plants, is covered with an earthenware bleaching - pot or a wicker case to keep off the dung from the young shoots, and to insure their being blanched, and to prevent the young shoots from being scorched by the heat of the manure. No plant is so easily forced, and, unlike Asparagus, it yields produce the first spring after raising from seed. Crambe Tataria, a native of Siberia, introduced 1789, a perennial, is called by the Hungarians tatar-kenzer or Tar- tarian bread, and its roots strijDped of the bark and sliced are eaten with oil, vinegar and salt. The boiled root is sweet, and eaten by children; the young shoots are boiled like those of Sea Kale, and have an excellent taste, but are stringy, though they would not be if well cultivated, which the plants a^^pear to deserve. I have seen the first species cultivated in European gardens, and it is indeed a great delicaqj^ for the table, but have not seen a single dish of it in all my travels in America. A SUBSCBIBEE. The Rose Tree and Its Legends. — The Greek poets say that the Rose was originally white, but that it was changed to red — according to some, from the blood of Venus, who lacerated her feet with its thorns when rushing to the aid of Adonis ; and, according to others, from the blood of Adonis himself. The fragrance of the Rose is said by them to be derived from a cup of nectar thrown over it by Cupid; and its thorns THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 309 to be the stings of the bees with which his bow was strung. Another fable re- lating to the birth of the Rose is, that Flora, having found the dead body of one of her favorite nymphs, whose beauty coukl only be equaled by her virtue, implored the assistance of all the gods and goddesses to aid her in changing it into a flower, which all others should acknowledge to be their queen. Apollo lent the vivifying power of his beams, Bacchus bathed it in nec- tar, Yertumuus gave its perfume, Po- mona its fruit, and Flora herself its corona of flowers. Anacreon makes its birth coeval with those of Venus and Minerva: "Then, then, in strange eventful hour, The earth produced an infant flower, Which sprang with blushing tinctiu'es dressed, And wantoned o'er its jmrent breast; The gods beheld this bi'illiant birth, And hailed the Eose — the boon of earth." Hints About Growing Cucubibers. — Take a large barrel or hogshead, saw it in two in the middle, and bury each half in the ground even with the top. Then take a small keg and bore a small hole in the bottom, place the keg in the centre of the barrel, the top even with the ground, and fill in the barrel round the keg with rich earth, suited to the growth of Cucumbers Plant your seed midway between the barrel and the keg, and make a kind of arbor for tlie vines to run on. When the ground becomes dry, pour water in the keg in the even- ing ; it will pass out at the bottom of the keg into the barrel, and rise up to the roots of the vines and keejD them moist and green. Cucumbers treated in the foregoing manner will grow to a large size, as they are made independ- ent of drought or wet weather. In wet weather the barrel can be covered, and in dry the ground can be kept moist by pouring water into the keg. Vol. III.— iO. Cf(Ut0naI govttolio. FAIRS AND EXHIBITIONS. The third annual exhibition of the Bay District Horticultural Society took place, as announced by advertisement; and although a brilliant success, as far as the display of plants, fruits, and flowers is concerned, it was a most dis- gusting financial failure. Strange that the people of San Francisco, expensive as they are in the coarser amusements, can not appreciate the more refined pleasures of such exhibitions, which, in other portions of the civilized world, are so liberally patronized. The Secretary of the Society not hav- ing furnished us with his usual report, we are necessitated to postjoone further comment to our next number. We, however, subjoin the oj^ening speech of Professor Carr. OPENING ADDRESS, By Prof. E. S. Caek, of the University of Cali- fornia. For the third time, this beautiful re- treat from the dust and confusion of the city is opened to thejDublic; and for the third time, you have honored me with an invitation to speak a good word for the Society, and the interests of Horticulture on this coast. I am glad to serve you to the best of my ability; but, in view of what you have done and are doing, and of the fact that you are opening this Exhibition in spite of the discouragement which attended the last, I certainly feel unequal to the occasion. I would have preferred that some other doctor should administer the sharjD and bitter tonic, which the j^eople of the Bay District deserve, if they allow so good a thing as this Society to languish for want of support. When I look at this noble and beau- tiful State, and think of the almost boundless prodigality with which Na- ture has endowed it, I feel that there ought to be a larger, grander humanity developed here than anywhere else on the planet. For, first of all, we have 310 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. the soil and climate best adapted to the accumulation of Avealth, and, therefore, the best possible conditions for the growth of knowledge, science, art, and taste among the masses of the people. "Here Nature shall condense her powers, Her mnsic, and her meteors, And lifting man to the bine deep Where stars their perfect courses kce^D; Like wise preceptor, lure his eye To sound the science of the skj', And carry learning to its height Of untried power and sane delight." But when we see how large a propor- tion of the intelligence, the brains, which should be brought to bear upon the development of these vast resources of material, intellectual, and si:)iritual power, are devoted to other ends, I fear it may be said of us: " Ej-es have they, but they see not; ears have they, but they hear not;" and that we be found worshiping the golden calf, while our unappreciated prophets are listening to the voice of God in the mountains, and tracing His hand in manifold works of beauty and grace. It is i:)leasanter to praise than blame; and there is so much to praise in Cali- fornian energy and enter})rise, that criticism is apt to fall pointless, like the grumblings of discontent. But one of the great essentials of improvement is to be aware of our own deiiciencies. We are often told that indifference to everything which does not exhibit quick returns is the vice of new communities. So it is; but not, therefore, an excusable vice. A new State in this half of the nineteenth century is the last onward step of human progress, and, therefore, we have a right to look for tlie best of everything, or at least the good healthy germs from which the best is to come. To-day, while thousands of our Amer- ican i:)eople are crowding the thorough- fares of Europe, and millions of Ameri- can gold is lavished in foreign lands, I feel that we are rich enough to pos- sess the best which Europe has to offer, if we were wise enough to feel the need of it. Do you suppose the Russians would have their winter gardens, and the Ger- mans their o^jen-air concerts, and every European capital its great libraries, and museums, and art galleries, if the people did not improve these opportunities of culture ? Do you suppose the Ameri- can in Kew Gardens, who would hon- estly prefer a Red Cabbage to a Cabbage Rose — whose ear is trained to Yankee Doodle, and not beyond it — with money enough in his pocket to buy a grand duchy — is trul,y the peer of the German, content with his black bread and beer — with simplicity and cleanliness — if to these his gardejis, his evening concerts, the glorious legacies of art aiid of im- perishable thought, be added ? What good thing is there in that old Avorld to which such numbers are flock- ing which we could not readily com- mand, if we would? Is it education? Think what teachers have voluntarily come to us — their Lieber, their Agassiz — glorying in the wider possibilities open to them here ! Is it art ? Think what that commercial Florentine peo- ple, with their citizen rulers, accom- plished for art in a single century; sim- ply because they were wise enough to choose things which are of lasting value I Think how every handicraft flourished there; how trade prospered and com- merce increased — impelled by an en- lightened public spirit! This, more than anything else, is what we need in California. I wish that some of the eloquence ex- pended in every political campaign, in showing how the liberties of the people are threatened, and their substance wasted, could be used in showing that mone}' is always wved, when used to promote education, artf and science — the great conservators — and to multiply all the rational enjoyments of human beings. I begin to feel that, between the enormous expense of keejnng our- selves from foes without and foes within, we can hardly get time to make our- selves worth saving. But, lest you should take these as afier-clcction views, I will leave them, and .speak of "pre- destination"— that of the Bay District Horticultural Society. You all know that some twenty years ago there was formed right here, among the money-changers, a little Society, which met in a dingy upper chamber, with a turnip for a candlestick, and an Indian basket for a ballot-box, yet steadily proclaimed itself the California Academy of Sciences. Among that faith- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 311 ful and far-sighted few was the worthy President of this Society. He was often mistaken, I have no doubt, for a miner seeking' his last chance, when shovilder- ing his blankets and pick, he went forth into the hills. But the kind of gold which Dr. Kellogg finds never creates a panic on Wall Street; and I fear it will be a long time before there is a general run on any of his banks. Since he is not in his place this evening, I may as well speak of him and of the service which he has rendered to Botany and Horti- culture. There is not a public garden in Europe, and perhaps not one of any importance in the world, to whose treas- ures he has not contributed ; nor any large herbarium in which j^lants of his collecting, from Alaska to Mexico, may not be found. A year ago, when the friend of all science and of all progress stood among us — and it was said of him that he "never had had time to make money" — I thought that distinction be- longed equally to some of our own scientists ; and that the fact should be known that " Mammon - worshiping California" had nevertheless a devoted band of laborers for science and the future. I have alluded to the history of the Academy for your encouragement — to show what steady perseverance will do. Little by little that Society worked its way — so slowly that the cobwebs gath- ered over its collections, and so silently that every now and then some of the contributions to it re-api^eared as new discoveries — until it had accumulated so much that the law, " To him that hath shall be given," began to oj^erate, and suddenly, Mordecai sitting humbly at the gate is he that the king delighteth to honor. The Art Association has had a shorter probation; but its history also proves that any similar institution will flourish here if it has vitality enough to make its claims known. California is not wanting in pride in her business enterprises. She only needs to believe in some of the higher laws of life—" that lovely things are also necessary; flowers as well as corn; the wild birds and creatures of the for- est as well as the tended cattle" — and the field of her energy Avill soon in- clude these. " The people of this country — I speak this word in that latest sense which dis- criminates between the users and the used — are, for the first time, wide awake to their own interests." We shall soon see what manner of public work they propose doing. Since every great step in progress is the result of individual effort, all the beginnings of this new exodus will be made in the home. There never were truer words said than these, to the English people: "What is chiefly needed to make the world bet- ter, is to show the quantity of haj^pi- ness that may be obtained by a modest competence," I believe the results of the new movement will be more taste- ful homes, then better and more beau- tiful villages, and farms which have less the appearance of deserts. I am glad to see the farmers of Cali- fornia organizing for mutual protection and improvement, because the matter of protection can be speedily adjusted, leaving only that of improvement to be attended to. How much Horticulture will have to do wuth that! I have passed a good many farm-houses in Cal- ifornia, wondering what punishment could be worse than to be condemned to live thus a single year. I never saw in an}' State more attractive rural homes than many about our bay, or many such farms as Gov. Bidwell's at Chico, or Mr. Beard's, at Mission San Jose — places which nobody would think of calling "palatial." They are just about good enough for a man who loves and honors his calling, and enriches his life as well as his purse. The charm of these representative homes is largely due to the horticultural adornments which are felt to be indicative of the taste of their owners. I know a man who goes every morn- ing to a mechanic's v/ork, yet gives an hour or so daily to the little greenhouse, built at odd moments and with small savings. I do not know if he is an ex- hibitor hei'e, but there ought to be a thousand exhibitors out of these ranks. I never saw in any rich man's conserva- tory such a splendid show of Calceo- larias, or such perfect bits of experi- mental work, as in his. He gets a crop, my friends, off that single town lot, which I do not think he would exchauQ-e 312 THE aiLIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. for a San Joaquin principality, if he were corralled, as many of our farmers are, on a f^reat bare wheat ranch, from •which every flower of the field had been exterminated. There is not a mechanic in San Fran- cisco who can not have his bay-window fernery, his little rock garden, a tiny fountain murmuring a perpetual song, if he will. It is the mission of your Society to create an appetite for these things — an appetite which is fed by blossoms as well as fruits. I hear it whispered, gentlemen, that your next exhibition will take place in a new hall, to be built by the Mechan- ics' Institute. Now, let me make a l^rophecy. Persevere in holding your semi-annual exhibitions — in introduc- ing every new and valuable acquisition to out-door and in-door gardening — and five years will not have passed be- fore some "greedy monopolist" will disgorge capital enough to build you as good a hall as that of the Massachu- setts Horticultural Society. Yes, and better ; for here you can at a compara- tively small expense sustain a winter garden, and make it self-supporting by admission fees and rents of stalls, and reserve jilenty of space for comiDetitive exhibitions also. About three years ago some enterprising citizens of Frank- fort, Germany, made a similar experi- ment, which has proved a great success — their admissions amounting to six hundred persons a day, and their com- pan3''s shares commanding a consider- able premium. There was no feature of the last exhibition I enjoyed so much as the children's flower-show, and I am glad to see it repeated here. I hope it may help to bring about a larger ad- mixture of Natural History studies in our schools, and help in creating a gener- ation of liberal patrons of Floriculture. A higher appreciation of all the arts can come only through education — first in the home, then in the school. A recent English writer says: "How few mothers can tell their children the names of the wild flow-ers and what they are good for — of the garden plants and what is good for them, what will feed, and what will kill them; or the names of the birds, the trees they like to build in, the homes they build, their abodes in winter, and how they procure their food. Though Nature is espe- cially the child's book, Ave have few mothers and teachers prepared to in- terpret it." I am sure the same can be said of us; and this lack of early training explains the public apathy in respect to works of taste. I beg leave to call the attention of this Society once more to the impor- tance of co-operating with the State Agricultural Society, and similar bodies in other States, to secure needed legis- lation for the protection and preserva- tion of our forests. I do not think the public are aware that this Society made strenuous efforts in this behalf at the last session, and that a bill was passed for the encouragement of forest and timber-tree culture, which, on account of some objectionable features, failed to receive the signature of the Governor. The people of other States are waking up on this subject. New York will be asked to set aside a vast territory, worth- less for agriculture, for a State forest. Much of it has already been skinned by lumbermen, but Nature, if permit- ted, will repair the loss. The Adiron- dack region, filled with lakes, and containing some of the noblest moun- tain scenery, is to be restored to the native inhabitants — the moose, bear, otter, the birds and fishes — so nearly exterminated elsewhere. The Yellowstone Park, the great pleasure-ground of the nation, is now being surveyed, and in time will become the resort of travelers from all parts of the world; yet it is no rival of the incomparable Yosemite, which is in- trusted solely to the keeping of this State. Every good citizen should feel an interest in the right management of this trust, and in the unimpaired trans- mission of that perfect piece of Nature's handiwork to future generations. The men are not yet born who can improve Yosemite and the Mariposa Grant; and whatever accommodations the public may require should be concealed rather than obtruded there. These two parks are the only forested lands in the United States exempt from spoliation. It has been shown by carefully gathered sta- tistics that, at the present rate of con- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 313 sumption of timber, fifty years will consume all the forests east of the Mis- sissippi; and the history of all other countries, where the natural conditions haye been so overthro^yn, proyes this to he the least of its consequent evils. Millions of acres in this State, worth- less for an}- but forest uses, are being conyerted into Avastes, uncheered by yerdure, and torn during the rainfall by devastating" torrents. Every shrub and green thing is swept bare, as with the besom of destruction, by the flocks and herds. All over Euroi)e it has come to be considered the legitimate function of governments to regulate these things. The forest laws of France restrict padurage, as well as wood- cutting ; and I wish we might have a similar application of science to states- manship here. I think we need a little legislation on another subject to which I would in- vite your Society to lend its influence. The great importance of the Grape- growing interest — and, now that eco- nomical modes of fruit- drying have been adopted, the fruit-growing inter- est— makes of special importance the "ounce of prevention" of those insect pests which have cursed other States. With increased facilities of communi- cation, our exemption from these is sure to be short-lived. The bark-louse is already at home in our fruit-trees, and the chinch-bug is sure to visit our fields. That dreaded scourge of the vine, the Phylloxera, may in a single season destroy one of our most impor- tant industries. It is time for us to recognize the importance of an ofliice, common in the Eastern States, viz : that of State Entomologist. Lest I should anticipate the Gover- nor's message in these suggestions, I will not amplif}' them. I expect to see this Society becoming more and more influential in forming correct pub- lic opinions as well as public taste. Through exhibitions like the present, and through its publications, it can not fail to become an important instrumen- tality in ushering in the period of uni- versal plenty, peace, and good will. A c.sK-LOAD of San Diego honey was recently sent East, from this city. State AoEicuLTrRAL Society's Fair. — The Twentieth Annual Fair of the California State Agricultural Society took place at Sacramento in the third week of Sejitember, and proved a grand success. All branches of agricultural and horticultural industries were well represented. The people, who flocked there by thousands, were well pleased with the management and display; and the ofHcers of the Society proclaim the Fair a financial success, which must be encouraging to everybody interested in Agriculture. From all accounts, the exhibit of stock was the finest ever seen, the races were exceedingly interesting, and the display at the Pavilion gave entire sat- isfaction. The horticultural departments were well represented, and we consider it our duty to review these more jDarticu- larly, leaving it to others to discuss the merits of the stock, of the races, and of agricultural products in their broad- er sense. The leading horticultural features were Fruits, Vegetables, and Flowers. The exhibit of Fruits was very credita- ble., but did not quite come up to the show of last year; this, however, was entirely due to the total absence of eastern fruits, which formed a very in- teresting and instructive feature last year. The Vine Grotvera' and Wine and Brandy Manufactiirerii Association made an excellent showing of Grapes. Mr. Young, of Sonoma Count^^ had a very extensive collection of fruits, well se- lected and nicely arranged. This was Mr. Young's first attempt to exhibit his fruits, and he succeeded well in demon- strating that Sonoma County can raise as fine fruit as any other locality in the State. The display of Flowers and Plants was much larger and better than here- 3U THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. tofore, and attracted a great deal of at- tention. The principal exhibitors were E. E. INIoore, and Miller & Sievers, of San Francisco; A. Ebel, gardener to E. B. Crocker, Esq., Sacramento, ama- teur; and Mark Hoj^kius, of Sacramen- to, amateur. Mr. Hutchinson, of Oak- land, exhibited some very good cut Dahlias. Mrs. B. B. Cutter, of Sacra- mento, showed some exquisite Tube- roses, tastefully arranged, with well- colored foliage of the tri-colored Cocks- comb. The display of Vegetables was unusu- ally fine and varied, and Messrs. F. Gabrielle & Co. deserve much credit for the superior arrangement. We are happy to say a few words of praise for the magnificent display of canned and preserved Fruits, Jellies, etc., by Mrs. J. B. Odbert, of Sacra- mento. Her collection embraced two hundred jars and glasses, of one hun- dred and sixty-nine varieties of fruits and jellies, in great perfection. The following awards have been made in the various horticultural departments : GREEN FRUITS. D. C . Young, Sonoma — Best display of Apples, $30. Ira S. Bamber, Placerville — Best twelve varieties of Apples, $15. R. Williamson, Sacramento — Best six varieties of Apples, $10. Dr. W. S. Manlove, Sacramento — Best three varieties of Apples, $5. D. C. Young, Sonoma — Best display of Pears, $30. D. C. Young, Sonoma — Best twelve varieties of Pears, $15. T. K. Stewart, Sacramento — Best six varieties of Pears, $10. D. C. Young, Sonoma — Best three varieties of Pears, $5. I. S. Bamber, Placerville — Best dis- play of Peaches, $15; best six varieties of Peaches, $10; best one variety of i:»eaches, $5; best display of Plums, $15; l3est five varieties of Plums, $10. D. C. Young, Sonoma — Best one va- riety of Plums, $5. I. S. Bamber, Placerville — Best gTeen figs, $5. D, C. Young, Sonoma — Best display of tropical fruits, $20; greatest number and best specimens of Oranges, $5. D. C. Young, Sonoma — Lemons, $5. R. Williamson, Sacramento — Best display of Seedling Fruits, $10. D. C. Young, Sonoma — Best disj^lay of Fruit, $50. FLOWERS. Miller & Sievers, San Francisco — Best collection of Flowering Plants in .bloom, $25. E. E. Moore, San Francisco — Best collection of ornamental Foliage Plants, $25. Miller & Sievers, San Francisco — Best collection of New and Rare Plants, $15. Miller & Sievers, San Francisco — Best collection of Roses in bloom, $15. Miller & Sievers, San Francisco — Best collection of Fuchsias in bloom, $15. Miller & Sievers, San Francisco — Best collection of Cut Flowers, $10. Miller & Sievers, San Francisco — Best collection of Bouquets, $10. E. E. Moore, San Francisco — Best collection of Australian Plants, $10; Hanging Baskets with Plants, $10. Mark Hopkins, Sacramento — Best collection of Plants for conservatory, greenhouse and window culture, $15. A. Ebel, Sacramento — Australian Plants, honorable mention. Josei^h Hutchinson, Offkland — Dahl- ias and Pinks, special premium recom- mended. Mrs. B. B. Cutter, Sacramento — Bas- ket of Tuberoses, special i^remium rec- ommended. Mrs. J. H. Carroll, Sacramento — Very large Bouquet, special premium recom- mended. The Yine Growers' Association. — The following is the annual address of i\fr. G. G. Blanchard, the President of the Yiiie Growers' Association. Ladic.-i cold Genllemen of (he Associa- tion: The season in its rounds of boun- t}' and of weather, are scarcely more constant and punctual than we. Each returning fall, with its fruits, brings THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 315 us together for congratulation and ad- vice, and affords us opportunity to give the "reasons why," and occasion for the "thus you see," of the year's employ- ment. This annual "come and go," this periodical "fetch and carry," in ways many and various, contribute to our prosperity as individuals, to the prosperity of our State, and our social progression and happiness. One more year have we watched, con- sidered, and dressed our growing vines; one more year have we racked and re- racked, tested and tasted its liquid pro- duct. For one year more have we ap- plied to the culture of the one, and the improvement of the other our entire stock of knowledge and ingenuity; and now, here, upon the altar of this indus- try do we offer up the result, and ask the descent of the latent mysteries of vine culture and wine making upon our offering. While we have been thus nobly en- gaged, the contending political forces have been busily applying their dogmas to public needs, and untiring in their efforts to secure our recognition and sup- port. Besotted selfishness and unhol^^ avarice are the seeds of the evils to which we are the prey. Our Avines are delicious, our fruits both palatable and nourishing; our presence upon the soil makes it inviting and gives increase to the national exchequer. Yet, as a class, the vine grower has but a small voice in the political economy of the State or nation. There will be produced this year, from twelve to fifteen million gallons of wine, of the value of three and a half millions of dollars ; besides about two million pounds of Grapes for table use, worth one-quarter of a million; and one-quarter of a million pounds of Rais- ins. There are not within this State to ex- ceed forty thousand acres planted to vines. Of hill and mountain land alone, which is eminently susceptible to the cultivation of vines, there are more than eight millions of acres. With reasonable cultivation, and with- out diminishing any of the other pro- ductions of the State, we have acres sufficient to produce annually from the vine more than $200,000,000, and these lands are mostly suitable for any other production as a staple. Our highest prosperity will never be reached, until the occupation of these lands is made an element of legislation; until the sub- ject shall receive encouragement and aid. Commerce is not to be forgotten, manufactures should not be overlooked, nor our mining interests neglected; neither should this greatest and most natural resource of the State — vine growing — be made the subject of legis- lative oppression. The husbandman is the Atlas, upon whose back the world's life is support- ed, and he has ever, with silence and humility, borne the burden. While ex- emption from taxation has been the order, his results have been listed for assessment. His surplus is the subject of tariff upon tariff. Our requirements have never been understood by political economists; our liquors are gauged when new and at highest proof. No account or allow- ance is made by the officer of revenue for evaporation, leakage, or deteriora- tion. Our wines and liquors stand to us as our growing crops, and only ripen at from three to five years after the time they are manufactured ; yet, w^hile in this state of incubation, they are listed and taxed from 3'ear to 3'ear, when they only have value as they mature. The present system of taxation is unjust and oppressive, and affords but poor encour- agement to industry. The burdens rest almost wholly upon the owners of real estate, v»-hile bankers, brokers, and those who deal in securities and exchanges, are exempt from taxation. The value of all the real and personal estate of the United States in 1860 was 81G,0SG,G16,- 0G8, (which included slave proj^erty); in 1870 it amounted to $30,822,535,140, leaving out the slave — more than doub- ling in a decade. This increase is un- precedented in history'. Yet, this fabu- lous increase can not be said to result from an increase of farming area or farm products, for the improved lands of the United States, in 1860, amounted to 407,212,538 acres; while in 1870 there were only 407,735,041 acres, show- ing an increase in the ten years of only 522,503 acres. These figures demon- strate that the increase has been prin- 316 THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. cipally in lands not agricultural, and of personal property not the j^roduct of tlie soil. AVbile farming lands and farming- products have increased, yet it Avas disproportionate to the increase of other lauds and other commodities, con- sidering- the cheapness of lands, the ex- tent of our arable domain, and the bet- ter price of its products. Query — Does this show a healthy state of things? I think not. When in a purely agricul- tural country agriculture is at a dou- ble discount — when men will forsake the plow for a standing -place in the city, and abandon the law of induction applied to the vegetable mold, for the chance of a freak in the dice of fortune applied to the shadow of a vision at some curb-stone, the one must be shad- owed with burdens that frighten, or the other be gilded with reliefs that dazzle. All burdens are distasteful. But the most unsavory is American taxation. The toiler has no time to hide, in fact, he can not hide his effects from revenue officials, for the most jjart they are bulky and just about him; while he that luxu- riates in his percentum and illicit trafl&c may escape the tax gatherer. Our sys- tem of political economy does not stojD to consider, with any degree of nice- uess, the wrongs done a class whose very business makes it unlikely that they will raise any very potent voice in their own behalf. The law makers are, not as a class, those upon whom the hand of government falls heaviest. Ay, they too often are those whose hand is most heavy ujDon the government — and upon whom the government has no hand. Extravagance is the rule, econ- omy the exception. A true citizen never advances his own interests at the ex- i:>ense of the community in which he lives. Query — Are those bad citizens who do? But extravagance always leads to corrujotion, and both are fueled and fanned by jDarty bias and party rule. Honest difference of opinion, spi-inging from diverse concej^tions of untried the- ories raid national polity, is always enti- tled to resjject; but joolitical distinc- tions, originating in the vanity of wealth, a debauched sense of class superiority, fevers of ambition, or in the advantages of a popular spasm, should be intoler- able, and condemned as factional. National prosperity, by a false esti- mate, is said to overlay a nation's wealth; and with equal falsity is it said, that the prime duty of a government is to pre- serve and aggregate its wealth. When a government has no higher object than monetary advancement, its stability is enervated, its health devoid of vigor, and its longevity problemati- cal. Prodigies of virtue, statesmaushiij, and valor seldom s^Dring from places of luxury. The sons of i:)overty, for deeds of honorable merit and renown, always defy and rout the powers of opulence. The voluptuous myrmidons of Persia, for valor and virtue, i^aled into littleness before the peasant youths of humble Sparta. The Roman invincibles carried their victorious eagles into the lich but festering Egypt and Persia, where opu- lence and venality was the rule. Principles of stainless loyalty and po- litical virtue are deep-rooted and im- movable in the poor. Presenation of material M-ealth is not the motive Avhich sends a yeoman to the front ; his battle song is of liberty and the reiDublic, in- stead of gold and silver. A city burn- ed, or a fleet scuttled, to the true de- fender, gives no qualms of property lost. The opulent commercial sons of Carthage, for gold sold her liberties and independence, despite the entreaties of her toiling people. Before Spain was gorged with the metals of Zacatecas and Potosi, her en- terprise and her virtue walked hand in hand. Her moral power was only equal- ed by her national activity. The mistaken idea that wealth M'as na- tional prosperity, lowered the Spaniard from his superior rank, and his govern- ment from a first to an insignificant power. Adherence to the soil is a specific remedy for an unstable condition of public mind. The plow and reaper agitate nothing but earth. He that causes a blade of grass to grow where none has grown before,, is greater than he who commands an arm3\ Wealth l^roduces pride of dominion, and pride of dominion is corrupting. Wealth fur- nishes the vitals of corruption; venality is its most nourishing aliment, and con- tamination its most refreshing atmos- phere. Reunions like this tend to uni- THE Cx\.LIFORXIA HORTICULTUEIST. 317 versalize class kuo^vledge aud dissemi- nate the principles of industrial virtue. They clear away the miasma arising from pools of sloth and from political defections. They dignify and give noto- riety to that which without them would be devoid of recognition or respect, be- yond a common and passing- mention. Aggregated we present a powerful front, and the knowledge of all becomes the knowledge of each. One of our contemporaries sneers il- liberally because it recognizes in our columns some excellent articles which itself had appropriated from the Reporf of the Commissioner o| Agriculture for 1870. "We allude to description of Gum plants, and similar articles. Are we not equally at liberty with itself to draAV from such sources, such information for our readers as we hope may be ac- ceptable? We do not pretend to sup- ply, nor does the iDublic expect, all original matter; and when we extract, we consider it rather a compliment than otherwise. If at any time any article is not duly acknowledged, it is an over- sight of our compositors which we re- gret. It is a pity that our contempo- rary can not be gentlemanly; when we l^resume it desires, as we do, to be read by the ladies. WOODWAKD'S GAEDENS. To the horticulturist and the botanist these gardens afford ample scope for study. The plants are kept in fine or- der, and exhibit great improvement under the judicious management of their present conservator, Mr. Brown. The extensive collection of Orchida- ceous plants is highly interesting; we also notice additions among the Caladi- ums — indeed the display of foliage plants generally is very fine. The Be- gonias are well represented. "We are eagerly expecting the opening of the Vol. III.-41. Cereus grandi-ftora (Xight-blooming Ce- reus), aud hope not to be disai^pointed as we were last year, by some vandal who destroyed the bud. CATALOGUES EECEIYED. "We have received No. 4 of Tick's Flo- ral Guide. It is handsomely illustrated and contains much useful and interest- ing information. This completes the quarterly series for the present year. We are haj^py to find that it has proved a success. This catalogue comprises a copious list of excellent flowering bulbs at moderate prices. We commend it to the careful perusal of our readers. Also Descripiive Catalogue of LcDigdon Nurseries, C. C. Langdon & Co., near Mobile, Alabama. This compi-ises Fiiiit and Ornamental trees, Grajie - vines, Roses, Evergreens, Bulbs, etc., and is at once copious and useful. 7'/ie Flower Garden, Beach, Son k Co., 76 Fulton Street, Brooklyn. This is at once an illustrated magazine of Floral progress and a useful priced catalogue of Trees, Shrubs, Plants, Bulbs, and Seeds. ■ — ■ ♦ FAYOES EECEIYED. The Overland Monthly for Octo- ber.— This is a veiy interesting num- ber. "Prison-life in China" portrays a lamentable state of affairs in that coun- try. "Seeking the Golden Fleece — After that the Deluge," by Dr. J. D. B. Stillman, presents a vivid picture of the flood of 1850 at Sacramento. "-Aborig- inal Shell Money," by E. E. C. Stearns, oives evidence of much careful research, and is both curious and highly interest- ing. Many of the other articles are well w^orthy of perusal. "Etc." as us- ual piquant; " Current Litei-ature " caus- tic, but nevertheless judicious. 318 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTUKIST. OUR EXCHANGE TABLE. Among the numerous and ever wel- come periodicals of our own class which from time to time present themselves, much to our gratification, at our edito- rial table, we call the attention of our readers and of the public in general to the following, as well worthy of public patronage : The HorticuUurist — monthly — Henry F. Williams, New York. $2.50 per an- num. An excellent magazine. The Gardener's Monthly-^its specialty Horticulture and Floriculture. Every gardener, whether amateur or profes- sional, should read it. Editor, Thos. Mehan. Published monthly hj Brinh- loe & Marot, Philadelphia. $2 per an- num. Moore's Rural New Yorker — weekly, illustrated. Very good. Published by D. D. J. Moore, N. Y. $2.50 per annum. Ladies' Floral Cabinet — beautifully illustrated, full of practical infoi'mation and pleasant reading matter. 75 cents per annum. Published motnbhly by H. F. AVilliams, N. Y. Courdry Gentleman- — weekly journal, replete with much desirable informa- tion. Publishers, Luther Tucker & Son, 395 Broadway, Albany, N. Y. Sir John Lubbock states that the Stresiptera or parasites found on bees and wasps, pass through all their trans- formations in the bodies of these in- sects. The males and females are very dissimilar; the former are active, minute and short-lived, while the females are bottle-shaped, never leave the body of the insect, and, except that the}- occa- sionally thrust the head of the bottle out between the abdominal rings, they appear to be almost motionless. WORK FOR THE MONTH. BY F. A. MILLEK. We have so far advanced toward the rainy season, that irrigation may be cd- tirely dispensed with, so far as trees, shrubs, and vines, both ornamental and useful, are concerned. The cool nights are longer, and in the vicinity of the Coast Range the atmosphere is damp enough to cover all sorts of vegetation with a heavy dew. The lawns in San Francisco, Oakland, and other locali- ties near the coast, will do well enough without any further irrigation ; while those of Sacramento, Stockton, San Jose, and other inland localities, may be treated with an occasional sprinkling during the month of October. Lawns ought to have a good top-dressing of manure just at the beginning of the rain}'' season, and I think the sod should be allowed to rest for a few weeks, pre- jDaratory to the application of a top- dressing. It is very imjiortant that all orna- mental trees, which are not sufficiently established to support themselves, have proper stakes given them, so that they may withstand our heavy winds. It is a common thing here, that, after the ground becomes thoroughly saturated with water during the winter months, trees are blown over for want of proper support. The present is the most fa- vorable time to guard against this. Flowers begin to be scarce articles, and as it is expected that the first rain will bring out new growth and fresh flowers, this would be the most favora- ble time of the 3'ear to resort to trim- ming and 2)runing. But let it be done by some one who understands his busi- ness. Some of our so-called gardeners apply the pruning-knife indiscriminate- ly to Roses, Lilacs. Deutzias, Snow- balls, and other flowering shrubs, and THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTUEIST. 319 manage to cut oft" all the wood which i<^ expected to flower. Some Roses do better by close pruning'; others do best if left alone. Your gardener should know something about this. In regard to Lilacs, Deutzias and Snowballs, noth- ing should be cut off except suckers and superfluous wood. If you can not trust your gardener, it will be far bet- ter not to touch these shrubs with the knife. Another lot of Gladioli may now be planted for winter flowering. It will yet be time to sow Pansy seed for winter and spring blooming. It is best to sow them in a box, which may be covered at night with a j^ane of glass or canvas. If placed in a warm and sheltered place they will be»fit to trans- plant in four to six weeks. A bed of Pansies is always most desirable, and we can have them here in the greatest perfection during our winter months. Dutch bulbs, such as Hyacinths, Tu- lips, Narcissus, Crown Imperials, Snow- drops, Lily of the Valley, Crocus, and others, have come to hand and may be planted at any time, particularly those which are intended for pot-culture in the house or under glass. I hear of late much call for Tuberose roots. Most of our amateur gardeners seem to think of planting bulbs when they see the flowers in our floral estab- lishments. All this is wrong. If you wish to cultivate Tuberoses in the oj^en air, you must obtain and plant them in spring, in order to have them in bloom in August, September, and October. If they are planted now, they will not bloom until next year, and may rot in the ground before that time. The on- ly way to plant Tuberoses, at this time, is to have them in pots or boxes, and place them in the house or under glass, for the purpose of forcing them for win- ter blooming. I would say, however, that the single white variety is better for that purpose than the double flow- ering. If you wish to cultivate Hyacinths, Crocuses, Tulips, etc., with success, do not delay planting them until you see I them in bloom in our floral establish- ments ; but go to work now. Obtain your roots at once of some responsible dealer, who will be Avilling to give you the necessary information as to proper treatment. Continue to give your plants in the conservatory, greenhouse, or window, constant airing during warm and pleas- ant weather ; but do not expose them to draughts or strong winds. EEPORT ON THE FRUIT AND VEGE- TABLE MARKET. BY E. J. HOOPEK, In writing on the subject of fruits, it naturally suggests itself that many new and valuable varieties of these as well as of vegetables have been produced, as it has appeared accidentally, in dif- ferent localities of the State. Besides the common productions of the temper- ate regions, various kinds of tropical fruits also, such as the Pineapple, Ba- nana, Mango, Cocoanut, Plantain,. Lo- quat, Chinese Guava, the Date,, and others. In view of this fact, if the farmers and horticulturists, and their societies, as now organized and being organized, will take hold of these new and valuable ariicles — and some others that might be named — and give them a thorough trial, even if only in a small way at first (and doubtless this is the safest plan), in difl'erent localities and soils, keeping a correct record of the circumstances connected with each indi- vidual experiment, they will perform a work that will, probably, bring vast and immediate benefits to themselves and 320 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. indirect good to the whole people. With especial reference to tropical or semi-tropical products, we here venture the opinion that our rich bottom-lands, particularly those in the southern por- tion of the State, where the facilities for irrigation are at hand, will produce ^ some varieties, at least, of the semi- tropical fruits of the more torrid zones, not only as good in quality, but as abundantly as the best localities of some of the islands of the Pacific, the East and West Indies, and some parts of Af- rica. Fruit of the common kind is so abundant now, that it is very desirable not only to raise the very choicest, hav- ing the highest flavor, fine appearance, and complexion, but the first-class spe- cies of each, in order that it may be profitable. Apples and Peaches of the most common qualities go far ahead of the demand; and even the wholesale price, in some instances to our own knowledge, will not pay for the ex- penses of gathering, putting in boxes, and forwarding to our markets. Many of the kinds which are most prized will not stand the eifects of transportation to the East or to other places so as to pay the packers, as has been lately •proved. It is only a verj few of them that can stand the wear and tear of time and distance, and remunerate their pro- prietors. It is chiefly in some cheap and effective dr^'ing and canning proc- esses— better and less expensive than those already practiced — that we can look forward to improvement in profits for some time to come. But when any i:)articular product is raised in excess of the requirements of home consumption, ijj is certainly of great moment to pro- duce less of this and more of those j^rod- ucts which we are still importing, and for which there is still an unsupplied home market; for, as has been observed, by a competent authority lately: "Of all the markets in the world, a ]iome market is the best for any countiw ; a foreign market is only good when the home market is over -supplied, to con- sume the surplus." Thus, we should produce, as we have said before, more various kinds of fruits for drying, can- ning, and pickling ; and also we may add, as we have happened here to think of it, more of all the nuts, such as the English Walnut, Almond, Pecan, and Peanuts, etc. And, in general, it may most truly be said, that besides a larger variety of all kinds of fruits, our prod- ucts of all sorts should be more diver- sified, so that individual success should not consist so much in large possessions of land for grain, or in immense mo- nopolized ■s\i8alth for the few, but in a general well-doing with medium posses- sions, and reasonable wealth for all. And these are subjects to which we in- vite the attention of those who have the best interests of California at heart; those who have lately been elected to make the laws and administer the gov- ernment. For the encouragement of cultivators of tropical fruits, and to cite an instance of the probable success of Orange cult- ure far north of Los Angeles, we will here state that in the garden of Judge Sexton were raised last year Orange and Lemon trees loaded with fruit; while in the garden of Mr. Glaucauf, in the town of Oroville, a day's journey by rail from Sacramento, an Orange-tree about twelve years old, bore and ripened the same year 400 as fine Oranges as were ever produced in Los Angeles, and they are of the same variety. A tree, also, on Bidwell's Bar, some six miles above Oroville, bore 1,500 Oranges, as good as any grown anywhere. These are significant facts, and tree-horticult- urists in the Sacramento Valley and elsewhere of the same climate, and in- THE CALIFOEXIA HORTICULTURIST. 321 deed all over the State, should benefit by them, aud at least make some small experiments in the same sort of fruits. Owing, however, to the burdens of the internal revenue and the high cost of freight about Oroville and those parts. Grapes for wine and brandy, etc., do not pay the producers,, though they might for table and raisins. In many localities in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys (at any rate with irriga- tion) can be raised besides all the ordi- nary fruits, such as Apples, Peaches, Pears, Quinces, Plums, and small fruits and berries, the Olive, Orange, Lime, Citron, Figs of several kinds. Pome- granate, Mulberry, English Walnut, Filbert, etc. But let us make a state- ment of those things which we find now existing in most abundance in our fruit and vegetable markets, and their condi- tion, and some of their prices. By the 22d of last month, all the common fruits of the season had found their way to the stalls; Quinces — the latest — having just about that time come in. Prickly Pears were then c{uoted at 2oc. per pound. Oranges were then scarce, but since much more plentiful. Lemons, also, were nearly out of mar- ket in the latter part of August ; but Limes were abundant. Plums were worth, by the box, from 7 to 8c. per pound — since somewhat less, especial- ly for the rather dr}- red sorts — the more juicy and finer -flavored, as the Yellow Egg, Prince's Imperial Gage, and the Green Gage or Claude Yerte, being, of coiu'se, higher in price. Blackberries and Strawberries might be considered, last of September, out of season. Apples have declined considerably in price since last month; the best being §1 per box; ordinary lots, of which there are too many, being as low in many in- stances as GOc. per box. Grajjes remain at last month's jDrices 10 to 20c. per pound. But this fruit is every day becoming, as the season advances, abundant. Apricots have long disappeared, and Peaches can not last much longer — the clingstones coming in, in large numbers. The common varieties of freestones are as low as 8 to 12c. per pound, or about SI. 50 per basket. Clingstone Peaches are considerably higher. There is now, at last, becoming a tol- erable demand for Quinces. The price is rather nominal, but they are selling generally at about 10c. per pound. In the vegetable market, Winter Squashes are quoted at 20c. per pound, and Summer Squashes at -Ic. per pound. Pumpkins are out of season. Potatoes have declined from i. to Ic. per pound, and Lima Beans have depreciated from 2 to 3c. x^er pound. Tomatoes are 2c. per pound less. Good Green Corn is quotable at 25c. per dozen. Rhubarb is not to be had for any price. There is no variation in the prices of other varieties of Yegetables. Bartlett Pears are in good demand, and prices are sustained. Seckel Pears have been received in plenty, Septem- ber 16th. The steamers continue to bring small lots of Los Angeles Lem- ons, which, owing to the absence of other kinds from the market, bring high prices. Crab Apples are plentiful at 6(a,8c.; Huckleberries 20c. per pound. About the Litter part of last month (September), there came forward Straw- berries in large quantities — the fourth crop — and being in fine condition, met with ready sales. Peaches, with the exception of a few from the mountainous districts, are now about out of the market (October Gth). Plums and choice Pears are scarce. The first Winter Xelis Pears of the sea- 322 THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTUEIST. sou came in the first week of October; but not being yet mellow, are not much in demand. Ai)ples are abundant (October 5th), and ver}- reasonable in price. The last steamer from the South brought a few boxes of Lemons, Citrons, Pomegran- ates and green Walnuts, all of which came to an appreciative market. We quote the different varieties of Grapes as follow: Mission and Sweet- water, 5@8c.; Black Hamburg, Black Malvoisie, and Rose of Peru, 8@10c; Muscat of Alexandria, Tokay, and Black Morocco, 15(^20c. per pound. We quote Smyrna Figs, 35c. per pound. Ajjples, by the box, delivered, at 75c.@$1.50; Pears, $1@$2. Plums retail at 10@15c. per pound; Bananas, 50(a,15c. joer doz. and $3@f!5 j^ei' bunch; Stiawberries, 15c. per pound. The following are the prices at which some of the leading articles in the veg- etable market are retailing: Green Corn, 25@30c. per dozen ; Antivie, 25c. per dozen; Colrabi, 10c. per bunch; Black Radish, 20c. per dozen; Mint, 15c. per bunch; Onions, 4c. per j)Ound; Pickling Onions, 5c. per pound; Shalots, 25c. per i^ound; Egg Plant, 8c.; Okra, 10c. per pound; Kale, 50c. ; and Celery Root, 75c. per dozen; Red and White Cab- bage, $1 per dozen; Cabbage Sprouts, 8c. per pound; Asj^aragus, 50c. per It). Interesting News foe Ladies. — Ladies who wear chignons, as well as the bald of the other sex, will be glad to hear that there is every prospect before long of hair being grown in the garden, and transferred by an easy and pleasing process to the head. It seems that cut- tings of hair, properly treated, will strike like Geraniums, and a savant in Kentucky has, according to the New York Tribune, discovered that by in- serting the cut end of a hair into a kind of paste made of two vegetables and a simple chemical, it can be made to gi'ow, and be thence transplanted suc- cessfully to a scarified skin. In fact, all that is necessary is a small head-rake, sufficiently sharp in the tooth to scrape the skin off the scalp in little furrows; the hair should then be at once inserted in the wounds, and personal beauty is thus reduced to a mere question of ag- ony. Wig-makers will not like this, but it is impossible to deny that "it will be a vast improvement on present ar- rangements; moreover, lovers may not only exchange locks of hair, but actu- ally engraft these souvenirs on each other's heads, and for this reason alone the discovery will be hailed with rap- ture by the romantic and affectionate in every quarter of the globe. The Monarch of the West Straw- berry, as grown in New Jersey this year, is described as follows: " It is a fine-looking berry of very large size ; one of those left with us measured five inches in circumference. The flesh is solid, the flavor exquisite, and the color a bright red, just such as is calcu- lated to please the eye of fastidious pur- chasers. It is quite prolific, late ripen- ing, and from its solidity well calcula- ted for marketing j^urposes. The beiries grow in clusters from six to twelve, pre- senting a veiy rich and beautiful aj)- pearance. The stalk is a very strong one, and capable of bearing the heavy crop of fruit from the ground, a very important and: dfesirable feature in sandy soil. Some of the leaves were five inches in length. Mr. Perry asserts that, side by side with his finest Wil- son's Albany, it commanded fifty cents per quart, while the Wilson was slow sale at fourteen cents." THE CALIFORNIA HORTICrLTURIST. 323 (?:(Utanjtl 6lcaning,si. When to Cut Grass. — An English paper says: If for horses at work, the grass should be mowed after it has passed out of blossom, when the seed is in the milk, because at this stage it contains the largest quantity of nutri- tious substances, such as sugar, starch, gum, etc., which are of the highest value, contributing much toward ren- dering hay such a choice article of food. If for cows, it should be cut earlier, so as to leave the grass as nearh' in the green state as possible — soft and succu- lent—because in this condition it con- tains a larger quantity of juices which assimilate well in the animal, and pro- duce a greater flow of milk. If for young stock and sheep, the grass should be mowed when in full flower, because after flowering, and as the seed forms and ripens, it is exposed to loss in its nutritive matter by the seed being shaken out and the brittle foliage break- ing off during cuttiug and making, and the grain itself, especially the rye grass, becoming almost a woody fibre, losing nearly all its sap and sweet ai'oma. In short, hay made from over-matured grass is no better than ordinary straw, if indeed so good. Fecundity of Fishes. — It is said that probably about 60,000,000 or 70,000,- 000 codfish are taken from the sea an- nually around the shores of Newfound- land. But even this quantity seems small when we consider that the cod yields something like 3,500,000 eggs each season, and that even 8,000,000 have been found in the roe of a single cod! Other fish, though not equaling the cod, are wonderfully productive. A herring six or seven ounces in weight is provided with about 30,000 ova. After making all reasonable allowances for the destruction of eggs and of the young, it has been calculated that in three years a single pair of herrings would produce 154,000,000. Buffon said that if a pair of herrings were left to breed and multij^ly undisturbed for a period of twent}- years, they would yield a fish bulk equal to the globe on which we live. The cod far surpasses the her- ring in fecundity. "Were it not that vast numbers of the eggs are destroyed, fish would so multiply as to fill the waters completely. It is a curious fact that science has often to adopt measurement and not weight as a standard unit. There is, in- deed, no such thing as absolute weight. It is only the result of gravity. A mass of matter, for instance, is nearer the centre of the earth at the poles than at the equator, and would weigh a quar- ter of a pound less at the latter than at the former. Therefore, if we ordered a quantity of goods to be sent from some place near the poles toward the equator, and they were weighed by a spring balance, they would not weigh so much on reaching their destination as they did when they were shipped; and yet the quantity of matter would be exactly the same. The Struggle for Life among Plants. — Each plant endeavors, almost con- sciously, to destroy his neighbor, to oc- cupy his ground, to feed upon his nutri- ment, to devour his substance. There are armies and iiLvasions of grasses — barbarian inroads and extirpations. Eveiy inch of ground is contested by the weeds; the forest is a struggle for precedence; the wars of the Roses are a perennial feud. The serenest land- scape, the stillest woodland, are the mortal arena of animal and vegetable conflict. 324 THE CALIFORNIA HOKTICULTURIST. The spittle-like substance found upon grass, -weeds, and frequently upon va- rious kinds of trees, is produced hx a genus of insects belonging to the Cer- cojns family of the order Homopicra, or whole - winged bugs. The larviB of these bugs suck out the juices of the plantSj and, after passing through, it is dejjosited about them in the form which has been termed frog- sj^ittle; hence the more common name of these insects, "Frog-spittle bugs." Flies, no doubt, frequent these bunches of spittle, but do not produce it, any more than those which frequent a sugar hogshead have anything to do with the manufacture of sugar. There are many species of these frog-spittle insects. — Rural New Yorker. The conversion of White Pine into paper pulp, has been going on to a lim- ited extent for a number of years, but it was only about two years ago that it was found jDossible to use Red Pine for the purpose. The difficulty lies not so much in the bruising and mashing of the wood as in extracting the rosin, and tar, and such matters, in which the Red Pine abounds so much more than the white variety. The process is the invention of a Scotchman, and a Ijon- don firm is busily engaged in introduc- ing it into Sweden; they have already started several works in different parts of the country. The manufacture, when full}' developed, vsdll be a great thing for Sweden, with her enormous forests of Red Pine. Antiquity of Flax.— Dr. Oswald Heer, of Zurich, has published a i:)aper " On Flax Culture in Prehistoric Times." He finds the original home of the Flax to be along the Mediterranean. It can be shown that the plant was cultivated in Egypt 5,000 years ago. Flax is found among the remains of the oldest pile-dwellings in the Swiss lakes, where neither Hemp nor Wool has been dis- covered ; and it is probable that the old lake-dwellers received the Flax plant from the south of Europe. Ripening Peaks. — Josiah Hoopes, after alluding to the common test of ripeness for picking, namel}', gently raising the fruit to see if it will readily detach itself at the stem, directs that the specimens be placed thinly and evenly on the floor of a cool room, on a blanket previously spread, and then covered with a second blanket. He says, " In a short time the effect of the treatment will be apparent in the most golden-colored Bartletts, and rich, rud- dy-looking Seckels imaginable. Pears perfected in this manner rarely have the mealiness of their naturally rijDened companions; nor do they prematurely decay at the core as when left on the tree." METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, For the Month Ending Sept. 30th, 1873. (Prepared for The HonTiccLTxntisT by Thos, Texnent, Mathematical lustrumeut and Chronoineter-niaker, No. 508 Battery Street (opposite the Custoui-honse.) BAEOMETKK. Mean height at 9 a.m 30.01 in. do 12m '. 30.01 do 3p.m 30.03 do C p.M 30.01 Greatest height, on tiie .5th at 12 m 30.19 Least height, on the 20th at (j p. ai 29.79 THEEMOMETEE. (Willi north ex2>osure and free from rtjlecled heat.) Mean height at 9 a.m 59-^ do 12 m W-" do 3 p.M C4=> do 6p.m 00= Greatest height, on the 21st and 23d at 12 m 70 -" Least height, on the 21th and 29th at 6 r. m 5.5° SELF - EEGISTERING THEEMOMETEE. Mean height during the niglit 46'-' Greatest height, on nights of 25th and 26th SS-" Least height, on nights of 8th, 15th and 17th 42= WINDS. North auil north-west on 1 d:iy; south and south-west on 3 days; west ou 20 days. WEATHEE, Clear on G days; variable on 20 days; cloudy on 4 days. rMr:^ >.";?^*» Old ^venue of Olives, San Luis Obispo, California. THE AND FLORAL MAGAZINE. Vol. til NOVEMBER, 1873. No. 11. MOKE VAKIETY IN OUR FLOWER GARDENS. BY F. A. MILLEK. With much truth it is said that both the cKmate auci soil of California offer suj)erior facilities for the growth and development of all kinds of vegetation; yet it is an unmistakable truth, that our people are very slow in taking advan- tage of these favorable circumstances at our command, and which would be instrumental in making us a prosper- ous and happy people. Our prosperity would doubtless be much enhanced if our fields offered more diversified pro- ductions; and the gardens surrounding our homes would give more satisfaction and comfort if the Flora was represented by a greater variety of plants and flow- ers, which our climate pei*mits us to cultivate successfully, without running the risk of losing them during the win- ter months, as our eastern friends fre- quently do. There are a few gardens in our State which have been planted with some care and judgment, but nine-tenths of them are made up of G-um-trees, Pines, Mon- terey Cypress, Acacias, Roses, Fuchsias, Laurustinus, and Geraniums — all of which are very desirable, and I would Vol. III.— 42. not like to see a garden without them; but there is something more wanted to break this tiring sameness, and to give variety to our surroundings, in order to produce a more pleasing effect, such as California only is capable of exhibiting. The reader, undoubtedly, will ask here, " What is wanted to produce the desired effect?" To answer this ques- tion is my present purpose. I wish to say a few wordis first in re- gard to ornamental and shade trees. The Eucalyptus and Acacia thrive with us remarkably well, and they are, indeed, charming trees, well worthy of cult- ivation; so is the Cupressus macrocarjM, (Monterey Cypress), and the Pinus iii- signis, (Monterey Pine); but, really, I think they are too abundant in our gar- dens, compared with other trees. I am aware of the fact, that near the coast evergreen trees do much better than deciduous trees, on account of the very severe winds and our peculiar climate; and for these reasons they are joreferred. I shall therefore confine myself to ever- greens, and would recommend the fol- lowing very meritorious kinds: Grevillea robusta is a most magnificent tree, its foliage being very ornamental, graceful, and effective. This tree is not very abundant at our nurseries, but 326 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. some of them may be always had at reasonable prices. They thrive admira- bly well in our soil, and in a few years make a very handsome tree. Banksia Aastralis is another very de- sirable ornamental tree, and should be in every garden. This is also some- what scarce, but may be had at most of the nurseries at a reasonable charge. Corynocarpus Icevigatus is a magnifi- cent tree. Its dark-green foliage has a bright metallic lustre, and always looks clean and refreshing. The Brachychiton acerifolia is a very remarkable ornamental tree, with bold and striking foliage, which has the form of the Maple-leaf, but is persistent. It bears very showy bright-red flowers, making the tree a most consjDicuous ob- ject from a distance. A few specimens may always be found in some of our nurseries. The well-known Magnolia grandiflora should be in every garden. It thrives well here and makes one of the best ornamental trees, its foliage and its flowers being highly decorative. The Cryptomeria Japonica, the Sclii- nus molle, (Pepper-tree), the Thuya gi- gantea, (from Oregon), the various kinds of Araucarias, the Madrona, (native of California), the Abies Douglassii, and others of the same genus; the Eucalyp- tus amygdalina, E. Viminalis, E. Bisdoni; all are very pleasing trees, and well adapted to our coast. Next to trees come the various shrubs, of which an indefinite number might be cultivated in our gardens, and which would be likely to do well here. It seems that Laurusdnus and Fitto- sporunis are in great majority every- where. Certainly they are excellent shrubs, and we can not do without them ; but let us have here and there some- thing else, which promises to do as well and gives us more variety. The Folygala is a beautiful evergreen flowering shrub, and one which meets with favor everywhere. It has a neat habit, is always in bloom, and can be pruned and trimmed into almost any shape or form. The Ericas, of which we now have a number of excellent varieties under cultivation at the principal nurseries, is altogether too rarely met with. As an evergreen flowering shrub, surely, it has no superior; its foliage and flowers are exquisitely graceful, and it grows as well as the Laurustinus with us. I hope our nurserymen will introduce a lai'ger number of varieties of this beautiful shrub. When first introduced, it was erroneously treated as a greenhouse plant, but since then, it has established itself as perfectly hardy. Its flowering season being through the winter months, it is particularly desirable. The Bouvardia is one of the most precious flowering shrubs, and although it is yet treated by most of our nursery- men as a greenhouse plant, its hardi- ness is fully established. We set about fifty plants in open ground in the au- tumn of 72, and although they were very small, they survived the winter, and are now flowering exceedingly well. The delicate wax-like flowers of various shades and colors are very eftective and cheerful. I would like to see them in eyery garden. Indigofera Australis is a very pretty shrub, with handsome purple flowers and graceful foliage, nearly always in bloom. The Deuizias of various sorts, the well-known Lilacs, the Spirceas, the Wiegelia rosea, the Snow-ball, ( Vibur- num opulusj, are all most desirable flowering shrubs, and although they are deciduous, they are, during the spring months, of great value to the flower- garden. The pruning of these decidu- THE CALIEOENIA HORTICULTURIST. 327 ous shrubs is not well understood by those who make the rounds here as the so-called "job-gardeners;" and the best advice I can give to those who cultivate them in their gardens is, not to let their gardeners touch them with the shears or knife, unless it is for the purpose of removing suckers from the ground, or such wood as is positively too abundant or in the way. It is the last year's growth that produces the flowers, and by cutting this away there can not be any flowers. The Daphne, a most exquisite ever- green flowering shrub, and rarely met with, will thrive here in the open air. Its flowers are very sweet-scented. The Diosma alba is equal to any of the very best of flowering shrubs. Its pretty white flowers are exquisitely fra- grant; it is perfectly hardy. The Oestrum aurantiacum is a lovely shrub, producing elegant clusters of orange-colored flowers. The Chorozenia, frequently treated as a greenhouse plant, is perfectly hardy. It is a most profuse flowerer during the winter months, and very desirable. The Swainsonia, the Lantana, the Ha- brothamnum, Besberis,Cratcegus, Cuphea, Hydrangea, and Escallonia,B,xe all shrubs of great beauty, and hardy beyond a doubt. I would also call special attention to the Bursaria spinosa, of which only one good specimen seems to be growing at Wood- ward's Gardens. This is a most lovely shrub, of graceful appearance, and its pretty white flowers are very ornamental. Plants may be had in most of our nur- series. In conclusion, I wish to call the atten- tion of the reader to the Azalea and Rhododendron, both of which are flow- ering shrubs of extraordinary beauty, and ought to grow here in the open air, if their cultivation was once thoroughly understood. Some difficulties seem to exist in their culture, but my opinion is, that these difficulties maybe remov- ed by judicious treatment. I am not prepared to say positively what treat- ment they do require, but I have suf- ficient reason to believe that our soil and water in San Francisco are not ex- actly adapted to them. It seems, how- ever, that a few experiments would be followed by a good result. Azaleas and Rhododendrons should grow as readily here as Fuchsias, and will event- ually prove even hardier. I hope that some of our nurserymen and amateur gardeners will give the matter some at- tention; and I anticipate a good result. [To be continued.] Fkuits of Siam. — Siam is verily the queen of the tropics in regard to the abundance, variety, and unequaled lus- ciousness of her fruits. Here are found those of China, greatly enriched in tint and flavor by being transplanted to this warmer climate; and those of "Western Asia, in this fruitful soil far more pro- ductive than in the sterile regions of Persia and Arabia; while numberless varieties from the Malayan and Indian archipelagoes, united with the host of those indigenous to the country,, com- plete a list of some two hundred or more species of edible fruits. In this clime of perennial freshness, trees bear nearly the year round, and so product- ive is the soil that the annual produce is almost incredible. The tax on or- chards alone yields to the crown a reve- nue of some five millions of dollars per annum, as I was informed by the late " second king" of Siam. It is not unu- sual to find on a single branch the bud and blossom, together with fruit in sev- eral different stages. Thus, at the merest trifle of expense, a table may be 328 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. suj^plied during the entire year with forty or fifty specimens of fresh, ripe fruit. Among these are many varieties of Oranges and Pineapples, Pumeloes, Shaddocks, Pawpaws, Guavas, Bananas, Plantains, Durians, Jack-fruit, Melons, Grrapes, Mangoes, Cocoanuts, Pome- granates, Soursops, Linchies, Custard Apples, Bread - fruit, Cassew - nuts. Plums, Tamarinds, Mangosteens, Ram- bustans, and scores of others for which we have no names in our language. Tropical fruits are generally juicy, sweet, with a slight admixture of acid, luscious, and peculiarly agreeable in a warm cli- mate; and when partaken of with tem- perance and due I'egard to quality, they are highly j)romotive of health. For this reason Buddhists regard the de- struction of a fruit tree as quite an act of sacrilege, and their sacred books pro- nounce a heavy malediction on those who wantonly commit so great a crime. One who has tasted the fruits of the tropics only at a distance from the soil that produces them, can form no con- ception of the real flavor of Plums and Grapes that never felt the frosty atmos- phere of our northern clime; of Oran- ges plucked ripe from the fragrant stem, and eaten fresh while the morning dew still glitters on the golden- tinted cheeks; of the rare, rosy Pomegranate juice, luscious as nectar. — Lippincoit's Maga- zine. Teaining Petunias. — A writer in the Garden says that a fine effect is obtained by his method of training Petunias. He procures a number of hazel rods, each about two feet long, bends them like croqiiet hoops, and drives both ends into the bed, placing them at suitable intervals all over it. On these he ties and trains his Petunias, which blossom more abundantly than usual under this treatment. We have seen Petunias successfully treated as if they were Sweet Pea vines, and trained on a slanting trellis. The trailing habit of this plant, especially late in the season, is not always sufficiently considered. TAKING UP AND CUTTING BACK FEUIT- TREES AT PLANTING TIME. BY E. J. HOOPEK. As the planting season is near at hand, I have concluded that a few prac- tical observations, concerning the lift- ing and pruning of young fruit-trees, is not out of i^lace in this our November number of the Horticulturist. There is one thing respecting fruit-trees which is deserving of more attention than it practically receives. I do not apply this so much to the heads of firms, (although they should see and insist upon it), as to their foremen and those working under their instructions; and that is, that fruit-trees should be taken up with more care than is generally j)racticed under what is called the di-aw- ing system, by men who, it may be, are only employed for short j^eriods, and who feel no particular interest in the way the work is done. I have seen beautiful fruit-trees sent with their roots so chopped and ruptured, and also pack- ed in such dry material, that those fine young trees — say two years of age — (and that is as old as they should be purchas- ed for all practical purposes), were scarcely so good as healthy maiden plants wrought in that or the previous season. There may be a chance, even for such trees, if planted very early in our rainy season; but if planted much later, and especially if rather late in the spring, the shoots, if left, would most certainly become stunted; and if cut back, in opposition to the general rule, that roots and tops should not be cut THE CALIFOKXIA HOETICITLTURIST. 329 back at one and the same time, there is every chance that most of them would become nothing but poor sickly scrubs with feeble shoots. So much is there of fact in this representation, that many gardeners, on going to a nursery, not only choose their plants, but themselves see that they are carefully taken up, and the roots surrounded with damp mulch- ing. Unless they can do this, they make it a point to order maiden plants; these they can train and move carefully, at pleasure. The training, as well as the proper removing of trees from the ground, is a matter of as much imjDort- ance to nurserymen as to their custom- ers. If trees are taken up with more care, even although a little more is charged, and if planters can only make up their minds to plant at the commence- ment of the rainy season, or very soon after it, then the cutting-back process — which as now practiced is sometimes nearly down to the stump of the young trained trees, thus rendering all the training of no avail — will soon be num- bered among the things of the jDast. Some nurserymen, when fruit-trees are purchased rather early in the sea- son, say in January, give instructions that Peaches, Plums, Cherries, and Ap- ricots should be much cut back when planted ; and that Apples and Pears bought at the same time, should stand over for that operation till the following spring. Now, I see no use in this ex- cessive mutilation. I can see very well the benefit to nurserymen of cutting back in a moderate degree annually; but I do not see any service to the pur- chaser of well-trained nursery-trees, if they have abundance of roots when taken up, of cutting back at all. Is the benefit, if any, equivalent to the post- ponement of bearing for one or two years longer than necessary, and also the risk, in many cases, of ruining the trees? The advocacy of some cultiva- tors of the cutting-back system, at least to any great extent, can not find any support, I think, in the Horticulturist. If the moving is effected at the proper time, and in the right manner, I hold with no more cutting back than is re- quired by the unripeness of the points of the shoots; and the necessity in some cases, perhaps, for getting more shoots to fill up large spaces in the young trees, and to give them good symmetri- cal forms. I see, in short, no benefit to be derived from such mutilation, and the shortening should only be resorted to when the shoots are not mature. Training trees in a nursery to be lop- ped back when transferred to a garden or orchard -grounds, will probably go on until two practices are altered, and planters as well as nui'serymen get freed from carelessness in this matter. Trees should be carefully planted soon after our first or second rains, about the be- ginning or middle of November, when the ground is warm enough, in our mod- erate climate, and when they have a long time before the dr3'- season, in spring, to encourage and produce plenty of fresh rootlets. If the trees are taken up carefully, and carefully sent, they will suffer very little. And if a few green leaves remain, they will serve to keep up the circulation, while an occa- sional dash from the hose, syringe, or a watering-pot, and a slight shade in the hottest part of the day ( although this latter suggestion will only apply in gar- den planting on a small scale), will pre- vent flagging and shriveling. The very lifting will induce a more perfect ma- turing of the wood; and before frosts or drouth can damage them, the plants will be able to hold their own. Such trees, with the soft points merely remov- ed, will speedily lengthen and throw out healthy lateral shoots, and soon at- 330 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. tain a fair size. Even if the planter cuts back pretty freely, the vigorous state of the roots will soon produce a correlative vigor of branches. In fact, tw^o-year old, or somewhat older trees, are a good deal in a similar position when judiciously and moderately prun- ed or cut back, to strong, healthy wil- low stools or Grajie- vines, when prun- ed. None of these favorable character- istics, however, can exist in the case of trees imprudently taken up, and trans- ferred in a bundle to their destination, in March or Aj)ril, then put into the ground at the coldest season of the year as regards the soil, but with the increas- ing heat and dryness telling on them; chiefly when the buds are swelling and expanding into shoots, before there is healthy root action to supply their wants. Spring planters, consequently, unless they can use very extra care, have themselves, and not nurserymen to blame for many of the evils and dis- api^ointments that sometimes ensue in our favorable climate and soil. AN INDIAN WINE. BY F. C. DANVEBS. Arrangements have been effected to establish a uniform time all over the country — that of the National Observa- torj% Washington, beings taken as the standard. New York and the Observa- tory have been already united by tele- graph, and this connection is, we are told, only the preliminary step toward the connection of all the principal cit- ies in the East, the West, the South, and the distant Pacific Coast. The idea is that the chronometer time at the Ob- servatory shall be telegraphed during the day to these different points, whence it will be again distributed among the lesser cities. Railroads, banks, and all the varied industries and enterprises, are expected to be governed by this uni- form standard in the conduct and man- agement of their business. The indigenous productions of India have recently received an addition in the shape of wine. Of all the numer- ous products and manufactures for which India has long enjoyed a far-famed pop- ularity, she has never hitherto been known as a wine-producing country. This is no longer the case, and although it may be many years before we see In- dian vintages advertised in and about London, there nevertheless exists the fact that she is capable of sending forth such productions. The fruit from which this wine is manufactured is of a dark, astringent, and sub-acid character. The tree on which it grows is the Jamun- tree {Sygyznium Jambutanum) ; and un- der the enterjDrising care of Mr. J. J. Varnier, an Italian gentleman, residing at Patna, it has been made to yield an indigenous wine, named by the manu- facturer "Kenoines." It appears that some years ago, Mr. Yarnier was struck with the resemblance which the berry of this tree bore to a kind of astringent gTape which grows near Milazzo and Mascali, in Sicily, and jvhich yields a generous, full-bodied, and, to Italians at least, a i>alatable wine. On analyzing the Jamun fruit, he found its approach to the grape in question greater than he had at first thought, and though, to a certain degree, deficient in vinous basis, yet capable of pelding good and palatable wine. On his return from a visit to Sicily, Mr. Varnier tried experiments, and suc- ceeded finally in inventing a process of producing wine out of the Jamun. En- couraged by the result, he secured in 1858 the aid of a skilled wine manufac- turer from Sicily, and thereby had the satisfaction of turning out some wine with perfect success. Not only were THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 331 the defects of the wine corrected, but its keeping qualities in a hot climate are said to have been secured beyond doubt, and it is expected that age will refine and improve it more and more. Dr. Collins, of the Government Opium Factory, at Patna, is of the opinion that it will prove a wholesome and palatable beverage; and Dr. Cameron, of Mong- hyr, described it as "pleasant to drink," and as a very light wine, of a light red color, of a sweet taste, bearing a great resemblance to claret-cup. A second wine, made apparently from the same fruit, is also described as a stronger wine, not so sweet nor so pleasant to drink, but containing a large quantity of astringent matter, which would doubt- less prove useful for patients suffering from dvsenterv and diarrhoea. PLANTS FOR HANGING BASKETS. BY F. A. MILLEE. [Continued.] The Kangaroo Tine of Australia. — The habits of this giant climber ( Cissus antarcdca ) are graphically described by a writer in the Gardeners' Monthly. He saw one of these vines which was almost seven hundred feet in length, and meas- ured three feet and nine inches in girth at the base: It had first infolded in its deadly embrace a tree of considerable size, but this support had died and dis- appeared, and nothing remained but a spiral column of vine nearly two hun- dred feet in height, from the summit of which the huge climber sent out its con- tinuations in a horizontal line for more than one hundred and thirty feet, until it reached a Eucalyptus tree. It was the opinion of our author's guide, that the trees which had supported it on its way to the Eucalyptus had perished by strangulation. He named the vine "the devil's corkscrew." Around the Euca- lyptus the vine had wound in several coils, and then thrown out a number of stems, which were grasping all the trees in the neighborhood of its line of march. In continuation of my communication in the October number of the California HoRTicuLTOKiST, ou hanging baskets, I will now give a list of plants well adapt- ed for such ornaments. As a centre piece for a basket the following are some of the best: Chinese Primrose fills the basket well, keeps neat, and produces flowers in abundance — generally throughout the year. I would say, however, that the Primrose will not do well in the open air, and the basket containing it should have a place near the window or in the conservatory. Sanchesia nobilis is a very suitable basket plant, with highly ornamental foliage, and will do very well for the house. Centaurea Candida is a very bright- looking plant for a basket, and will do very well where the basket is intended for out-of-doors, or on the veranda; for this purpose I do not know of anything better. Dracoenas with variegated foliage are brilliant plants for baskets; however, they are higher in price and require to be inside of the house. In a warm place they will do well and produce a fine effect. The Alternantheras are bi'ight-looking plants, and are particularly well adapt- ed for baskets; but it is necessary to keep the basket well drained, tolerably dry, and inside of the house, or else the leaves will drop. The same must be said of the Coleiis, which, of late, has become so popular with us as a basket plant; the bright colors help considerably in the sale of baskets. The habit of the Cole- us is such, that it will soon outgrow 332 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. its neatness, and a removal of the plant becomes necessary. Some of the dwarf-growing Begonias are veiy desirable for baskets, particu- larly the new variety, folioaa, or the well-known Begonia parvifolia — only for house culture. The dwarf - growing Fuclisia macro- phylla is a plant of good habit for an out-door basket; and will always flower well if kept moderately moist. Ferns of various kinds are worthy objects for baskets, and if kept in a shaded place will look always bright, green, fresh, and graceful; a basket filled with Ferns should be kej)t rather moist. For the window or the conservatory, the variegated ornamental foliage Be- gonias may be highly recommended. A basket of this kind must be kept rath- er dry, and in a warm and protected place. It makes a very effective orna- ment. To fill a basket well, a number of smaller plants are required to be plant- ed near the rim. The most hardy of these, for out-door baskets, are: Isolepis gracilis, the best and most graceful grass for the purjDose, always green if watered sufficiently. Lobelia is next in importance to make up a good eflfect; it is of excellent habit, and gives a graceful appearance; its bright little blue flowers are always ad- mired. Senecio scandens ( German Ivy ) is the hardiest and most prolific plant for bas- kets; it climbs and trfils in a pleasing manner, and grows well both in and out of doors. Tradescaniia zebrina, Sedums of variou s kinds, Linaria, 31aurandia, Saxifraga, Periilvinkle of different sorts. Ivies, green and variegated, and Iiy -leaved Gerani- ums are all hardy, and combined with the others named before, will make a most desirable basket for the open air. For the greenhouse, conservatory, or parlor window, the following dwarfish- growing plants produce a most pleasing and brilliant cfiect: Cissus discolor, excellent as a climber or trailer for a warm situation. Antigonon leptopus is probably the most graceful trailing plant for such a basket. But few of them can be had as it is a plant of recent introduction. Torenia Asiatica, a beautiful blue flow- ering greenhouse plant, which will do well under ordinary treatment, is well adapted for the purpose. Fitioniagiganlea, Pearcei, and Verschqf- feltii are magnificent ornamental foliage plants for baskets. The Peperomias, Eusselia juncea, Coc- coloba, Gymnostachium, Variegated Se- dum, Lycopodium , Smilax, Erantliemums, Ampelopsis Veitchii, have all excellent habits for basket-growing in the house or under glass, and possess all the good qualities necessary to make up a most desirable collection. After planting the basket with all that is to grow in it, it should be thoroughly watered and placed in the shade for a few days; during which time it should simply be left alone. As soon as all the plants have assumed a healthy and vigorous appearance, the basket may be hung in the place intend- ed for it. During winter months, no more water should be given than is posi- tively necessaiy. During summer, a frequent sprinkling of the basket is vei-j' beneficial. [To be continued.] To Freshen Cut Flowers. — Cut off half an inch of the stems and jjlace them in boiling water, or otherwise place them in fresh water with fine j)owdered charcoal, and place a bell- glass over them. THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. 333 SUMAC AND HOW IT IS CUBED. H. A. V. of Waco, Texas, writes: There is a great quantity of Sumac on the prairies around here, and quanti- ties of it might be easily gathered : 1. Will it pay to gather it? 2. Where is the best market for us? 3. What is the time to gather it? 4. How should it be prepared for market, and what price should it bring ? Several answers were elicited to in- quiiies about Sumac, from Southern readers of the Gountrxj Gentleman, in the course of last year, and we condense from them what comes the nearest to answering the questions of H. A. V. , trusting that further information may be elicited from our correspondents who happen to be familiar with the product referred to. So far as we are aware, more atten- tion has been given to Sumac in the vicinity of Fredericksburg, Va., than in any other part of the countr3\ A meet- ing was held at that place in September, 1872, of ten or a dozen firms engaged at various points in grinding Sumac, for consultation as to the interests of the business. It is stated that the price paid at the mills for dried Sumac is one to two cents per pound, and that after grinding, it is sold in New York at about four cents a pound by the ton. These facts lead us to infer that H. A. V.'s 1st question may be answered in the a£Brm- ative. As to the 2d question, we know of no market likely to be available shori of St. Louis or New York. With refer- ence to the other inquu-ies, we quote the following letter from a Western cor- respondent of the Country Gentleman : Red Sumac — black, sometimes called — is the Sumac of our commerce. White is worthless. Here in southwest Mis- souri, the shrub groAVS without cultiva- tion on all our prairies and glades. If it is to be cultivated, the better way, it seems, would be to get the ground in Vol. III.— 43. good fix, and plant in rows about three feet apart each way; cultivate the first year, and sow the land in Blue-grass, as it is of slow growth, and the turf will help the ground to hold moisture, and as the Sumac roots run near the sur- face, they will be nourished till the branches have afforded the necessaiy shelter. The leaves are gathered here from the middle of July to last of Au- gust, before they turn red, as after this they are not marketable. Dry or cure in the shade. Kiln diying has been practiced by some, but can not say as to the success, though it seems that this process would be j^ractically useful. After curing, the leaflets are generally stripped from the stem and jDacked in bags or bales for market, though much was marketed the jDast season from some of our neighboring counties, stems and all. The price is from seventy-five cents to one dollar per hundred pounds stripped. The seeds are not gathered with the leaves. A correspondent in western New Y'ork gave the following directions for curing : The time for cutting is after the leaf is of full size, until it turns its color. Only the leaf is of value. No bobs must be allowed in it. Cut the stalks of the present year's growth, and cure them as you would hay, taking care to preserve it from rain and dew, as both injure it the same as hay would be in- jured. Put it in the barn, and examine it often for a time, for it will heat and spoil veiy soon if not pro^Derly cured. Let it lie until the weather is veiy cold; then thresh it. The best way is to jDut it on the barn floor; j^ile it on three or four feet deep, and put on a span of horses. They will soon tread the leaves from the stalk. Rake off the sticks and put on another flooring. When the leaves and small branches (that do not rake out) have become a foot or more deej) on the floor, put the horses on to that, and tread and stir it until it is quite fine; then sift it, and it is ready for sacking. To sift it expeditiously will require a large coarse sieve. One of half an inch mesh, will take out most of the objectionable stems. The following facts were quoted from a New York journal: 334 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Previous to 1865 but little American Sumac was used; now nearly 4,000 tons are drawn from our old fields and for- ests, yet at the same time the consump- tion has largely increased, and the amount imported exceeds $300,000 in value. The upland Sumac is that pre- ferred for market purposes. It is of three species : the stag-horn or Mus typhina, which grows to a tree eighteen feethigh, and the smooth or Ehus glabra. The Ilhuf! copallinn is also used; it is sometimes called dwarf Sumac. The swamp Sumac isnotconsidered of value. The first has branches of a hairy ap- pearance like a stag's horn; the two lat- ter have little bristles or hairs on the berries. These Sumacs generally grow on red lands derived from primitive rocks. The time to gather is before the berry is ripe. Gather only the leaves, and be careful to keep out the berries. Dry in the air, taking care to keep out rain and dew. Also do not have the leaves too thick, as they may heat; and it is also best to stir them several times a day. No woody stems should be al- lowed to be picked or get among the leaves. They add some weight, but take off a great deal from the value of the Sumac. When thoroughly dried it must be ground. This is done in mills, the stones of which run on edge, and there are numbers of them in Ma- ryland, Virginia, and one at Greens- boro', N. C. As dried, before being ground, it is worth about one and a half to two cents per pound, as may be its cleanliness. When ground and sent to New York, first-class American Su- mac will sell from four and a half to five cents per pound by the ton. When the business was first com- menced,- a great deal of poor Sumac was sent to New York. A bad name was given to the article, and the price was very low, but we are informed that our manufacturer in Winchester gets as much fox his article as the best Sicilian. Southern Sumac is richer in tannin than the Sicilian, but there has not gener- ally been enough care taken in its prep- aration for market. After grinding, it should be packed in bags containing 162 pounds. The bags, to hold this quantity, should be cut 40 lay 60 inches. That considered best has a light green color. There is room for a dozen or more of these mills in the South, and the Su- mac for them is daily going to waste. The necessary machinery, buildings and power need not cost as much as $5,000, and if grinding only two hundred tons a year, would pay handsomely on that investment. The pi'ice at the mills in Virginia ranges from one to two cents per pound, and if properly prepared, will sell in New York at four cents per pound. There certainly must be a profit of $20 per ton. — Country Gen- tleman. ^^^ Plants for Hanging Baskets. — In fill- ing the baskets, do not use common garden soil, as it is not suitable for growing plants in this way, from its tendency to bake together and shrink away from the sides of the basket or pot ; but, if possible, procure some top- soil from the pine woods, which is rich with the decay of the tiny needles of the pines, or a yellow loamy soil, part sandy, from the florist's. Then be sure that there is a little hole in the bottom of the baskets to allow the superfluous water to pass away, or else put in bits of charcoal to act in drainage, and also to keep the soil sweet, A piece of sponge is also an excellent substitute for a hole in the basket, as it will suck up all superfluous moistux-e, and then allow the roots of the plants in their turn to receive it. Usually plants in hanging baskets require more moisture than other plants, because they are more thoroughly exposed on all sides to the air, and the water evaporates more quickly. So if they hang up away from direct contact with your eyes, you must give a little water both night and morn- ing, so that they will not suflFer for the want of it. I am growing now for wintei* flowei'- ing and foliage, the ivy-leaved Gera- nium, L'Elegnnle; Isolepis gracilis, a THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 335 lovely grass of a light green; Coliseum Ivy; Smilax; Peristrophe angiistifolia aurea, a lovely plant, with yellow leaves striped with green, while its llowers are of a delicate violet hue; Pilea tnuscosa, which resembles tree moss, and its grace- ful drooping habit makes it very desi- rable; and Tradescantia zebrina, whose striped leaves, of a rich purplish maroon and green, contrast charmingly with the other plants. These will fill three bas- kets, which will decorate my dining- room and parlor when the face of Na- ture is shrouded in its snowy mantle, and not a green thing is visible out of doors. — Country Gentleman. OLD AVENUE OF OLI^'ES. (see illusteation.) The patient plodding industiy of the old Mission Fathers of California, from all accounts, gave them an abundant reward, and when we look over then- mission-fields of labor now in ruins, and nearly all vestiges of a numerous Span- ish and Indian population have disap- peared, a feeling of sadness takes pos- session of our hearts. This is particu- larly the case when viewing these noble old Olives of a former day, and we can not do better than make a few extracts from the Overland Monthly, a magazine that is constantly publishing so many interesting facts about our prolific soil and genial climate: "I followed the guidance of my English friend, and was satisfied that he appreciated the beauty of the grounds. 'Stand here,' he said, taking position near the an- cient olive-press, beneath the allee of equally ancient Olive-trees; ' look down that way, and fancy how in olden times the padre walked slowly along in the shadow of these Olives, breviaiy in hand, and looking up occasionally to see that the Indians did well their work in the garden.' I half-closed my eyes, and gave full scope to my imagination; the man was right. It was a picture serene- ly still, and full of heavenly peace.". In connection with this subject we make the following extract from the same magazine: "Olive-culture, it is anticipated, will prove a lucrative business in the count}' of Santa Bar- bara, and elsewhere on the southern coast of California. The labor required in its cultivation, compared to that de- manded by ordinary field and garden farming, is trifling. The tree at five years of age, returns a slight recompense for care ; and at seven, an orchard should afford an average yield of about twenty gallons of berries to a tree. If there are seventy trees to an acre, there should be obtained from it 1,400 gallons of berries. From twenty gal- lons of berries may be extracted three gallons of oil; and, if properly manu- factured, olive-oil will command §4 to $5 a gallon, at wholesale. Thus an average yield of Olives, derived from an orchard covering one acre of land, will pi'oduce about $800 worth of oil. After deducting the entire cost of production and manufacture, a net profit may be anticipated of at least $2 jDer gallon; and thus, one acre, containing seventy trees, yielding an average of twenty gallons of berries, or the equivalent of three gallons of oil each, will afford a surplus above all expenses of about $400 a year." LA>rDS are made to increase yearly in fertility, mainly in three ways — by buy- ing commercial fertilizers, by ploughing under clover, by buying rich food for animals and saving all their droppings. The farmer understands his business who knows which mode is best for him. The most successful farmers practice all three. — Exchange. 336 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. ORNAMENTAL AND FOREST TREES FOR FARMS. There is much said in the agricultural 23apers of the day concerning the plant- ing of ornamental and shade trees at the West. Various States have set apart "arbor days," when everj' man and boy shall feel it his duty to transplant one or more trees, and some States are so wise as to offer a reward to the person who shall set out the largest number of forest-trees on that day. Now, there is as great a scarcity of shade -trees upon miany farms at the East as at the West, and the jourpose of this article is to call attention to the fact, and persuade youthful farmers to supply the defi- ciency, and to transplant the Maple, Oak, Elm, and other trees this season, which will afford a grateful shade for years to come. I heartily commend those farmers 'who plant new orchards of Apples, Pears, Cherries, Plums, and Peaches. The fruit is delicious, Jiighly appreciat- ed at home and abroad, and will bring in plenty of " material aid " in the shape of greenbacks. But fruit-trees are not desirable about the house, and can nev- er take the place of forest -trees for adornment, timber, or fuel; nor are they as desirable for a "cool, umbrageous shade." Cattle seek grateful shelter from the noonday sun, and it is as essential for their comfort to obtain it as it is for man's — as needful for their health.. But do not plant the trees too close to your dwelling-houses and barns; give the air a free circulation about such buildings. Oaks, Maples, and Elms should not droop their branches over the roof-tops, but be planted at least thirty or forty feet distant. In selecting trees to plant around the home farm, it is always well to choose those which are useful as well as orna- mental. The Sugar Maples are quite as handsome as Oaks and Elms, while from thirty to forty good -sized trees, several pounds of delicious syrup can be obtained. I know a man who plant- ed in his yard ten Sugar Maples, some twenty or thirty years ago, and now ob- tains about three gallons of maple syr- up every spring. Thus we can com- bine utility and beauty. The American Weeping Elm is as perfect a tree as grows, and the Oak is always majestic, while the White and Black Ash and Sil- ver Maple are also much admired. While I am on this subject, let me beg your readers to plant trees outside of lawns and front yards, as well as within the fences, and have the pleas- ure of providing a shady highway and sidewalk for every passer-by. There is nothing which adds more beauty to a street than rows of forest -trees. Ever- greens are most desirable for wind- breaks, screens, and ornamental pur- poses upon a lawn, but are not so well adapted to the front door-yards. They are excellent shields from the north wind, however, and in single trees or in clusters, are especially beautiful on large lawns. Almost all farmers can go into the forests and obtain as many trees as they require, merely for the cost of digging and transplanting them. If they choose Maples, Elms, Oaks, or Ash, they will be surer of success if they select those that are from eight to ten feet high; their top branches should be shortened, and many of them cut entirely away, leaving the stems nearly bare^, but tak- ing care to lift a large ball of earth and all the little rootlets possible. In planting them, prepare a hole larger than the base of the tree, and deeper than the roots; pour one or two pails of water into the hole, and set the THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTUEIST. 337 tree in firmly and straight. Stamp down the soil around the roots closely, and then turn the uplifted sods bottom upward around the base of the tree. To transplant Chestnut, Hickoi-y, and White Oak, select small trees, not over five or six feet high, and leave the poles nearly bare of branches or leaves; also cut the main stem in for half a foot. This severe pruning has the effect of producing more root growth, and saves the life of many trees. When new trees are planted, it is well to mulch them about the roots and stems with coarse stable litter or hay; and if planted where cattle will be lia- ble to rub against them, a strong stake will afford much protection. — Country Gentleman. CiiLTrv*.TioN OF Fish ix Ditches and PoxDs. — Experience proves that fish are much more easily cultivated than has been supposed. Much attention is now being paid in Germany to their cultivation in ponds and ditches, and it has been found, contrary to the gener- ally received opinion in reference to such localities, that they are more favor- able for the purposes than other large bodies of water, apparently fresh and pure in their character. This is doubt- less owing to the great abundance of an- imal life, as well as the more decided concentration of vegetable substances in the form of living plants of different kinds, including the algse. This pro- duces a constitution of oxygen, needed for the respiration of the fish, and al- lows a larger mass of life to be crowded together in a given space. The repro- duction of the species is unusually rap- id, and the young grow very quickly. From the above it seems quite clear that there is no great mysteiy in fish culture, and that it can be made largely profitable, if properly managed. PROLIFIC JOINT CORN. BY KOBEKT E. C. STEASNS. Three seasons ago I noticed in the Illustrated Catalogue (1871) of B. K. Bliss & Sons, seedsmen, an advertise- ment of a new variety of Corn, which was highl}' recommended by them. Hav- ing known of the excellent reputation of the firm for many years, I sent to them for a few small packages of the seed, and gave it a trial. I should mention, however, that aside from their recommendation, I, by accident, met with an Indiana paper, and in glancing over it, I noticed that this Corn had taken two premiums for great yield, at two of the county fairs of that State. My place of residence was at the time just outside the city limits of Petaluma, and on nearly the highest land there- abouts; the soil a gravelly loam, with some clay and some little fine sand in- termingled; it had been in pasture for many years prior to planting; was plow- ed deep, and well broken up and pul- verized; but the spring rains being exceedingly meagre, the soil was very dry in some places — ' ' as dry as an ash- heap" — so dry that some of the seed never sprouted, and was dug up as hard and sound as when put in the ground. Of course the Corn that did grow was a long time in getting a start, jet under these exceedingly unfavorable influ- ences, the crop was most abundant, and with a /air show, would have been enor- mous. I was more than satisfied, and fully believe that the yield would have reached, if not have exceeded, the statement of its originator. One stalk — from a single seed of course — which I exhibited at the Sonoma County Fair, had fifteen ears on it, and ten ears to a stalk was not uncommon, the ears be- ing from five to seven inches lonsf when 338 THE CALIFORNIA lORTICULTUEIST. with a husked. It is a white Corn, small kernel and slender cob. One secret of its great yield per acre is in the fact that it is not a ;aZ?-growing corn, and therefore admits of close planting, which will not answer for the common varieties. It can be planted in drills or furrows which are no far- ther than three feet apart, and a kernel dropped every twelve to eighteen inches; the latter distance being ample in ground that is in a good condition. At this spacing (three feet by eighteen inches ) the number of stools per acre would be nearly nine thousand, which is nearly or quite three times as many as when or where the common Corn is planted. It is a good parching Corn, though not the veiy best for this purpose; and as good for feed as any other, especially for poultry, as the kernels are small and do not need cracking. For the purposes of fodder, cutgreen, to feed milch cows late in the season, it is first-rate, as the stalk or butt is slen- der and tender; and if the stalks are saved after harvest, the proportion of husks is so great as to make it superior. If sowed, to be cut green for fodder, I should put the seed not over six to nine inches apart in the row. It is a heavy corn, weighing sixty to sixty-two pounds to the stricken bushel. I cultivated it as nearly on a level as possible, using a cultivator between the rows, and not a plow. It is by far the most prolific Corn that I ever saw; and unless a person is prejudiced against ivhite corn, will prove as satisfactory as it has to me. a-eets of Paris and other large cities, ^cording to M. E. Andre, it is only the Dwers of the male trees which exhale lis unpleasant scent, and he recom- lends that none but female trees should ::, for the future, planted in public or (lier places where the peculiar odor of \e males might be offensive. A BUNCH OF CALIFORNIA PEAES. Perfume of the Ailanthtjs. — Many complaints have been made of the over- powering and offensive odor of the flow- ers of the Ailanthus-trees planted in the BY E. J. HOOPEB. In a window of the office of the Bul- lin, in this city, are exhibited 140 Vi- cr of Winkfield Pears growing from a n'va an inch only in diameter at the top ( thickest part. The length of the i-;>ui and branches is four feet, and the Adth of the cluster, about the middle, i two and a half feet. Its weight is e.'htj'-five pounds, and the pears will fi two common boxes containing nearly tree bushels. The tree from which tL fruit was taken is on the ranch of Mr. hrcheval, near Courtland, on the Sac- rxnento River. This variety of Pear, smetimes called Yicar of "Wakefield, 1 Cure, Monsieur le Cure, and Clion, \\s found growing wild in a wood in Iince by M. Clion, a Fi-enot curate; hnce the names, Clion, Le Cure, etc. A;erward, it was grown in a garden at "^.nkfield, Berkshire, England, by Rev. L Rham, and received the new name olVicar of Winkfield, concentrating tt two associations in the one name, ail which, being of our own language, iso be preferred. It is a most profit- ale variety, either on the Quince stock ons a standard; and although only sec- od quality, it is always fair and large. Te tree is a very vigorous grower, with la^e, roundish, glossy leaves; shoots — di urging, and of a dark olive color; fnt— large, oblong, obovate, pyriform; cor — dull pale-green at first, becom- in pale -yellow, often with a fine eoDpoMliliHriiliri^ai nuoiOMte. ih^. **^-*^, THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 339 brownish-red cheek, marked sometimes with brown dots over the whole sur- face. Its season is from October to January. It is always a first-rate baking Pear, and when well ripened oflf in a warm temperature, it is fine as a table Pear, but generally rather astringent and crisp. It is always, however, re- markably fair and handsome, and noted for its productiveness and large size. A YASE OF FLOWERS FOR THE SHAH. On the occasion of the visit of this "attractive celebrity" to the Crystal Palace on the 30th of June, the private rooms appropriated to royalty were nicely decorated with flowering plants by Mr. Laing of the Stansted Nursery, Forest Hill, and with a number of va- ses, very tastefully arranged by a young lady of the neighborhood, well known among the amateur exhibitors at the Crystal Palace Flower Shows. Among them, that selected for the centre-table in the Shah's private room especially merits a record. The vase chosen was composed of four tall trumpets stand- ing in a glass dish, the centre trumpet being taller than the other three which surrounded it, and curved away from it. In the dish were four fine blooms of crimson Cactus, alternately with large flowers of white "Water Lily; these were set off with a few fronds of Maiden- hair, judiciously placed. In each of the three curved trumpets was a flower of a fine white Lilium (in form and color intermediate between L. auratum and L. candidiun), in which the deep yellow of the eye of the Nymplicva was spar- ingly repeated. Around each Lilium were a few blooms of blue Corn-flower, among which peeped out two little pieces of Kalosanihes Coccinea, of the same color as the Cactus below. The tallest trumpet was dressed with white Bhodanthe, mixed with two or three paler blue Corn-flowers and a little grass, and edged with small sprays of little crimson - tubed yellow - mouthed Eclieveria. The stems were twined with climbing Fern (Lygodium japonicum), and between the three curved stems stood up three well-chosen pieces of white Rhodanthe. The whole formed one of the best specimens of floral ar- rangement I have ever seen, the flow- ers being of the best quality and in the best condition, and the grouping being faultless. I wish that decorators could be induced generally to use fewer colors in their vases, and to rej^eat the colors, instead of varying them, upon each tier of their vases. The most ar- tistic decorations that have come under my observation have been produced either with flowers of the same colors that occur in the lowest tier being re- placed by smaller and smaller flowers of the same color, in the succeeding upper tiers, or, if smaller flowers are not attainable, b}' paler shades in the uj^per tiers of the colors used below. This vase for the Shah's room presented illustrations of both these principles combined. — The Garden. The Rotting of Fruit. — According to Decaisne, the rotting of fruit is pro- duced by two microscopic fungi, which develop in moist air, viz. : 3Iucor mu- cedo and Penecillium glaucum, infinitely minute germs of which are continually floating in the atmosphere, and which attack more especially any injured or abraded portion of the surface. If the fruit be wrapped up in cotton or with soft tissue paper, or still better with wax paper or tin foil, the introduction of these germs will be prevented, and the fruit can be kept for a long time without any appreciable change. 340 THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. (grtitoriat gortt0U0. We regret to find that the Fall Exhi- bition of the Bay District Horticultural Society is financially a failure — a repe- tition of the ill-success of the spring. The utmost economy was used in the preparations; expenses were carefully reduced to a minimum; the officers and some of the members exerted them- sehes to the utmost, and performed those duties which in all other societies are deputed to employes; and to the honor of very many of the exhibitors, they have generously declined to draw the premiums awarded them — and yet a loss! The Secretary reports that his balance-sheet shows a deficiency of at least $500. We abstain from further comment at the present time, on ac- count of the press of other matters; but at another time, will have to revert to the subject. We subjoin the report of the Secretary of the Society. The Cinchoxa-tree. — In view of the probable introduction and cultivation of the Cinchona-tree uj)on American soil, any information relating to the proper treatment of these plants is ren- dered serviceable. A recent observer reports that, when the plants of the Cinchona succiruhra are manured with sulphate of ammonia or guano, the result is an increase in the alkaloids obtained. By this treatment, however, a change seems to be efi'ected by which this species loses its alkaloidal charac- ter with age, and for this reason ma- nuring is not advised. A more favor- able result follows the manuiing of the Cinchona officinalis, which is thus caused to yield a much greater amount of qui- nine. While pursuing the same line of investigation, J. E. Howard rei)Oi-ts that the leaves of the Cinchona succiruhra contain no alkaloids. FAIRS AND EXHIBITIONS, Bay District Horticultural Society. — The Third Annual Exhibition of our Horticultural Society opened, as an- nounced, on Tuesday, September 30th, at 8 o'clock, p. M., at the Horticultural Hall. Although the time for the neces- sary preparations was very limited, yet everything w;as so far completed that hardly any space was unoccupied at the time of opening. In the absence of Dr. Kellogg, the President of the Society, Dr. Behr made a few appropriate remarks, and then in- troduced the speaker of the evening, Prof. E. S. Carr, who delivered an able address, which was published in the last number of the Horticulturist. That Professor Carr has rendered an excel- lent service to the cause of Horticulture by his talented speech, is acknowledged by all who heard him. It is particu- larly well appreciated by the members of the Society, who fully share his views as to the importance of the insti- tution, and the lack of proper support on the part of the public. After the close of Professor Carr's address. Dr. Behr declared the Exhibi- tion open to the public; and under the influence of the delightful strains of the band, all present roamed around, full of admiration for the grand disj)lay made in so short a time, and enjoyed, to say the least, a most pleasant even- ing. Although the attendance at the opening was small in number, yet those present reiDresented the very best class of our population. The priuciijal features of the Exhibi- tion were flowers and plants, fruits, preserved fruits, and jellies. Flowers, plants, shrubs, and trees were really well represented in point of variety, as well as quality. There was a very decided improvement in the THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 341 quality of plants, and nurserymen and florists did well in preparing their plants for exhibition, which they neglected to do at former exhibitions. The prin- cipal exhibitors in this department were E. L. Reimer, Miller & Sievers, E. Meyer, E. E. Moore, R. B. Woodward, William Robertson, and various ama- teurs. The most interesting and most con- spicuous collections were : Group of Tropical Plants, of R. B. Woodward, by Th. Brown. Tendei' Ornamental Foliage Plants — one collection by Th. Brown of Wood- ward's Gardens, another by Miller & Sievers, and a third by E. E. Moore. Ferns, two very excellent collections, by E. Meyer and by Miller & Sievers. Flowering Plants, by E. L. Reimer; a most meritorious exhibit for the late- ness of the season. Collection of Cnladiums, by Miller & Sievers, including many new and fine varieties of late introduction. GreenhoiLse and Conservatory Plants, three collections, by E. L. Reimer, Mil- ler & Sievers, and E. Meyer, all of which were very meritorious. Neiv and Bare Plants, two collec- tions. Aitslralian Evergreens, one collection. Coniferce, one very good group, by E. L. Reimer. Ooleus, two sujierior collections. Hardy Ornamental Foliage Plaids. Best Grown Plants, twenty specimens, by E. L. Reimer; one of the best groups we ever had the pleasure of seeing. Japanese Plants, a meritorious exhibit, by E. E. Moore. Climbers, Boses, Fuchsias, Double Ge- raniums, Variegated - Leaf Geraniums, Ornamental Foliage Begonias, Marantas, Primulas, and Califor'nia Native Plants, all well represented. In Class II, some very good exhibits Vol. III.— ii. were made of Hanging Baskets, both rustic and wire, of Flower-stands, Fern- cases, and Coniferae Cones. In Class III, of Cut-flowers, the prom- inent features were Dahlias, Roses, and a general display of Cut-flowers. Class IV, of Bouquets, was, as usual, inferior. But very few really good ex- hibits were made, our florists complain- ing of want of time. The deficiency in this class is always badly felt, and the want of enterprise in this depart- ment is not easily accounted for. Class V, consisting of Fruits, was the most complete and remarkable that has ever been made in San Francisco. The principal exhibitors were D. C. Young, of Sonoma; John Rock, of San Jose; W. B. West, of Stockton; and Mrs. Odford, of Sacramento. The collection of Apples, by D. C. Young, was the largest ever made in the State, comprising 140 varieties of su- peiior quality. The same i>arty also showed a complete collection of the Pears grown on this coast, and they were of excellent variety. The exhibit of Foreign Grapes by Mr. W. B. West, notwithstanding the late- ness of the season, was one of the best ever made, in i^oint of varieties as well as quality. Mr. Rock, of San Jose, had some very fine ApjDles, Prunes, and Quinces, which would be creditable to any country. The display of Preserved Fruits, Jel- lies, and Pickles, by Mrs. Odford, of Sacramento, was the finest and most numerous ever made in this State, and found a great many admirers. We can not express too much praise for the un- tiring enterprise of this lady, who makes this industry a particular study. Class VI, of California Wines, was represented by Mr. H. Winkle, who showed some excellent California White and Red Wines — Zinfandel, Gutedel, 342 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. and Cabinet — all of wliicli are said to be of fii'st quality. EXHIBITS NOT INCLUDED IN THE OENERAL PREMIUM SCHEDULE. By A. Kauffman, three Pears, (Du- chesse d'Angouleme), weighing, in the aggregate, four pounds and six ounces. By Miss Stella Sheppard, one case of Pasaiflora princeps, in wax. By P. A. Espina, specimens of Pen- manship, representing various horticul- tural products. By Andrea Sbarboro, three Japanese specimen plants, representing a cottage, a turtle, and a sailing vessel. By Mrs. Burnum, one case of Skele- ton Leaves. By E. Wolleb, four specimens of Or- namental Foliage Plants. By various children, plants which they had received from the Society at former exhibitions, and which, to their credit be it said, showed a marked im- provement as compared with those of the last exhibition. AWARDS OF PREMIUMS. Clans I. — Plants. 1. Flowering Plants in Bloom: first prize, E. L. Reimer. 2. Australian Evergreens: first prize, E. L. Reimer. 3. Conifers: firstprize, E. L. Reimer. 4. Plants for Oreenhouse and Con- servatory : first prize, Miller & Sie- vers; second prize, E. Meyer; third prize, E. L. Reimer. 5 . Hardy Ornamental Foliage Plants : first prize, E. L. Reimer. G. Tender Ornamental Foliage Plants: first prize, Th. Brown, Woodward's Gardens; second prize. Miller & Sie- vers; third prize, E. E. Moore. 7. Tropical Plants: first prize, Th. Brown, Woodward's Gardens. Sj)ecial mention of superior specimens. 8. Hardy Climbers: first pri^e, E. L. Reimer. 9. Tender Climbers, second prize. Miller & Sievers. 10. New and Rare Plants: firstprize, Miller and Sievers; second prize, E. Meyer. 11. Plants for Hanging Baskets and Rocks; second prize, E. L. Reimer. 12. Ferns: first prize, E. Meyer; sec- ond prize, Miller & Sievers. 14. Coleus: first prize, E. L. Reimer; second prize, Miller & Sievers. 15. Fuchsias: first prize, E. L. Rei- mer; second prize. Miller & Sievers. 16. Double Geranium: second prize, E. L. Reimer. 17. Variegated Leaf Geraniums: first prize, E. L, Reimer. 18. Zonale Geraniums : second j)rize, E. L. Reimer. 20. Ornamental Foliage Begonias : first prize, E. E. Moore. 24. Caladiums: first prize, Miller & Sievers. 25. Marantas: first prize. Miller & Sievers. 27. Primulas: first prize. Miller & Sievers. 30. California Native Plants : first prize. Miller & Sievers. 31. Ja^Danese Plants: first prize, E. E. Moore. 32. Best-grown Plants, twenty speci- mens: first inize, E. L. Reimer. 33. Best -grown Plants, ten speci- mens: first prize. Miller & Sievers. Judges — R. Michelsen, Dr. Behr, and W. B. West. Clans II. — Miscellaneous. 34. Rustic Hanging* Baskets : first prize, E. E. Moore. 35. Wire Hanging Baskets : firstprize, E. L. Reimer; second j^rize, Mrs. Hoff- man. 36. Rustic Flower-stand: first jDrize, Miller & Sievers. 37. Wire Flower- stand: first prize, Miller & Sievers; second prize, Mrs. Hoffman. 38. Coniferje Cones of California: first prize, C. Stephens. 41. Square Fern-case: first prize, M. H. Lester. 42. Round Fern -case: first prize. Miller & Sievers. Judges — D. C. Young, Dr. Behr, and W. B. West. Class III. — Cut Floioers. 43. Cut Flowers, general display: first THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 343 prize, E. L. Reimer; second prize, Wm. Robertson. 44. Gladiolus: first prize. Miller & Sievers. 45. Cut Roses: first prize, "Wm. Rob- ertson; second prize, Sliller & Sievers. 46. Cut Pinks: first prize, Miller & Sievers. 47. Cut Dahlias: first prize, N. M. Malmgren; second prize, Miller & Sie- vers. Class IV. — Bou quels. 48. Basket of Flowers: first prize, Miller & Sievers, by August Duhem. 49. Pyramid Bouquet: first prize, E. L. Reimer. 50. Wedding Bouquet: first prize, W. Robertson. 51. Funeral Wreath: first prize, W. Robertson. 52. Funeral Cross: first prize, W. Robertson. 53. Funeral Cross: diploma, Miller & Sievers, by Hugo Leopold. 54. Flat Bouquet: first prize, E. L. Reimer. 55. Floral Design: first piize and di- ploma. Miller & Sievers, by August Duhem. Judges — Th. Brown, H. Horst, and R. Michelsen. Class V. — Fruits . 1. Best collection of Fruits : first prize and diploma, D. C. Young, of Sonoma. 2. Best collection of Apples: first prize, D. C. Young. 3. Best twelve varieties of Apples: first prize, D. C. Young. 4. Best collection of Pears: first j)rize, D. C. Young. 5. Best twelve varieties of Pears: first prize, D. C. Young. 6. Best collection of Peaches: first prize, D. C. Young. 11. Best collection of Prunes: first prize, John Rock, of San Jose. 12. Best collection of Quinces: first prize, D. C. Young. 13. Best collection of Figs: first prize, D. C. Young. 14. Best collection Foreign Grapes: first prize and diploma, W. B. West, of Stockton. 15. Best twelve sorts of Wine Grapes: first prize, D. C. Young. IG. Best twelve sorts of Table Grapes • first prize, D. C. Young. 20. Best exhibit of Preserved Fruits: first i:)rize and dij^loma, Mrs. J. M. Od- ford, of Sacramento. Meritorious exhibit of Branches of Fruits; D. C. Young, of Sonoma, and C. W. Stevens, Fruit Vale. Honorable mention of Quince Seed- lings: D. C, Young, of Sonoma. Judges — C. Westphal, Wm, Robert- son, and E. L. Reimer. The Society may well be proud of their success in making up the Exhibi- tion, which was in every respect supe- rior to any of their former atttempts. Unfortunately, however, the show re- sulted again in a financial failure, and the actual loss may be estimated at about five hundred dollars, which, in addition to the loss of last spring, will cripple the Society for some time; and the serious question arises, whether the people of San Francisco can be de- pended upon in the future to sustain the efforts of the Society in fostering a taste for the beautiful. We have a suf- ficient population to make a Horticul- tural Society a permanent institution, and it is time that the people should awaken to their own interests. If they fail to do this, they certainly must do without this kind of exhibitions here- after. It is to be hoped that the Society will not be compelled to discontinue such worthy displays. No greater injury has ever been done in horticulture than the recommendation by inexperienced writers of chij) manure, as a dressing. Its danger arises mainly from its ready disposition to spread fun- gi, which inevitably arise in soils natural- ly a little moist and tenacious. When once formed, such fungi spread with as- tonishing rapidity, totally preventing growth, and finally killing the plants. — Ilorficidtarist. 344 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. WOODWARD'S GARDENS. The present season of the year is not a very favorable one for luxuriating among- flowers and plants. Neverthe- less, a recent inspection of the conserv- atories and tropical houses-of this estab- lishment afforded us ample satisfaction. And we have been pleased to see, on several recent occasions, that instruct- ors of the young have availed themselves of the verj' liberal ojDportunity afforded by the large-souled proprietor, to study natural philosophy from objects; exem- plified, as it is, in so many of its depart- ments in these really rich grounds. This is as it should be; it is the best, the sur- est, the pleasantest, and the most rapid way, both for pupils and teachers, for imparting insti-uction. We speak from many years practical experience in edu- cation. School-books are but text-books, and no class should graduate without passing through such a course. Among the many choice plants which attracted our attention in the tropical houses, we will mention the following as deserving particular notice: Pan- danus Javaniensis; Scudleria moxciana; Cypripedium insigne; and C. venustem variegatum ( parasites in bloom ) ; Hem- erocallis fulva, variegated Lily; Croton carcascaria, G. pictum, C. rubra varie- gata; Gycas revoluta ; Er'anthemum scan- dens ; Micania spectosa ; Dioscora discol- or ; Euphorbia sanguinea ; Alocassia Ba- taviensis, a kindred siDecies to Tara; Maranta Zebrina; Plilelobium aureum; Strelitzia regince. Queen Lily (2), both coming into bloom ; Amaranlhus salici/o- lius; Anthurium regale ; Gesneria refal- gens, G. cinnabarina, G. zebrina; Gero- pegia elegans; Phelia mimosa, bombard- ing Fern; Aphelandra crislata; Tarinia Asiatica; Begonia Welioniensia, B. sem- perjlorens; while of the Rex variety of Begonias there were B. Queen of Han- over, B. silver diaiti, B. Marchali. But we must stop or we shall become tedi- ous. Our friends must see and admire for themselves. FAVORS RECEIVED. We are indebted to the courtesy of the Hon. Frederick Watts, Commission- er of Agriculture, Washington, D. C, for the Annual Report of the Departmeid of Agriculture for 1872. This is always most acceptable for the carefully pre- pared statistics and valuable information of this mostimportant depai'tment. Also for the monthly reports so regularly for- warded. The Overland 3Ionthly for November, Again we welcome our always pleasant- ly anticipated contemporary — another verjf interesting number. "The Gravel Ranges of the Gold Belt" is an im- portant article; "Seeking the Golden Fleece — No. 3" is highly interesting; and "Mount Whitney" very readable. "Etc." and "Current Literature quite up to average. Manure and WATER.-«-TheRoseisone of the few cultivated plants that will profit by almost any amount of stimu- lating manure, provided it is not too fresh and rank. Let it be old and fine, and then apply as liberally as the sup- ply will warrant. All Roses do better in rather heavy and comj^act soil than in one that is ver}' light, containing too much sand or vegetable matter. The Rose being a thirsty plant, it should be planted in a deep, moist soil, or where water can be freely given artificially. Those who plant single specimens of Roses in sod or upon raised mounds in the garden, usually learn their mis- take in July or August. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 345 NEW AND RAKE PLANTS. Mimulus cupreus, variety "Bril- liant."— There are few things more gay in the spring of the year than the vari- ous varieties of "monkey flower." They are, besides, of very easy culture, if a few simple precautions are taken. The chief of these is to keep them from great heat. They like rich soil, and to be in the full light; and like moisture, but not to be soddened or wet. A saucer with water under the jDot, is an excellent way to keep up this regular supply. There are many cool places about buildings and in greenhouses, just suited to it. In every other respect it is easy of cult- ure. The variety treated of is said to be a ^carlef, which, if so, will render it peculiarly desirable. — Gardener's Monthly. Yucca Baccata. — This new and very distinct species, found in New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona, was introduced into cultivation in Europe last year by M. Linden, of Brussels. In the rigidity of its habit and the texture of its leaves, it bears a greater resemblance to Y. cor- niita or Y. Trecideana than to any spe- cies of the aloifolia section. It has a thick, wrinkled stem, about a foot high, on the summit of which are closely crowded the short, straight, erect, point- ed, boat -shaped leaves of a light green color, bearing on their margins numer- ous long, broadish, and sharply pointed shaving -like appendages. The fruit is a capsule, as in all the Yuccas, but has the shape and fleshy consistency of a ripe Banana, by which name it is known to the natives of Western America. The taste is sweet and agreeable, and the Indians, who are very fond of it, gath- er and dry large quantities for winter use. The uncooked fruit is said to pos- sess highly cathartic jiroperties. — Gar- den. Aquilegia leptocera aurea. — This is a new introduction from the Rocky Mountains. It is closely related to A. canadensis, and in habit of growth, foli- age, and height resembles that species. The flowers are, however, pale straw- colored ; and being a free - flowering plant, it will form a very desirable con- trast to the bhies and reds of the other species and varieties. It appears to be as easily cultivated as any of its con- geners, and quite as hardy. The Gar- den says of a specimen recently ex- hibited in London: "That fine yellow Columbine {Aquilegia aurea) shown at Kensington the other day, is a distinct and handsome plant, with fine clear yellow flowers, making it worthy of as- sociation with the very finest species of Columbine." — Gardener's Monthly. Saxifraga Peltata.— One of the most extraordinary and distinct of its family. It produces large lobed leaves eight inches across, attached near the centre to strong stalks eighteen inches or two feet long, and bearing striking resem- blance to an umbrella, in consequence of which it is popularly called the Um- brella plant. The flower-stalks rise to the height of two feet, bearing cymes of large, white, rose-tinted flowers. It forms strong, fleshy creeping stems, and is found growing on the margins of streams in California, with the stems frequently submerged. This at once suggests its fitness for ornamenting the banks of streams and lakes in this coun- tiy . — Ga rden e?-'s Mo n thly. Tea, as grown in the south, is said to lack the indisi^ensible theine for which it is alone valuable — that it does not, when steej)ed, yield the flavor or fra- grance of the Chinese production. Is this true? Can any of our Southern readers send us a sample of American- grown tea? — Rural New-Yorker. 346 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. NEW FRUITS AND VEGETABLES. The Finest Fruit in the Wokld. — The Durian, a fruit about which veiy little is known in England, but which is reckoned by natives and Europeans in the Malay Archipelago to be the fin- est fruit in the world, grows in great abundance in Java and Borneo. It grows on a large and lofty forest tree, somewhat resembling an Elm in its gen- eral character, but with a more smooth and scaly bark. The fruit is round or slightly oval, about the size of a large Cocoanut, of a green color, and covered all over with short, stout spines, the bases of which touch each other, and are consequently somewhat hexagonal, while the points are very strong and sharp. It is so completely armed, that if the stalk is broken off it is a difficult matter to lift one from the ground. The outer rind is so thick and tough, that from whatever height it may fall it is never broken. From the base to the apex five veiy faint lines may be traced, over which the spines arch a little; these are the sutures of the carpels, and show where the fruit may be divided with a heavy knife and a strong hand. The five cells are satiny white within, and are each filled with an oval mass of cream-colored pulp, imbedded in which are two or three seeds about the size of Chestnuts. This pulp is the eatable part, and its consistency and flavor are indescribable. A rich butter -like cus- tard highly flavored with almond gives the best general idea of it, but inter- mingled with it come wafts of flavor that call to mind cream -cheese, onion- sauce, brown-sherry, and other incon- gruities. Then there is a inch glutinous smoothness in the pulp which nothing else possesses, but which adds to its delicacy. It is neither acid, nor sweet, nor juicy, yet one feels the want of none of these qualities, for it is perfect as it is. It produces no nausea'or other 1)ad effect, and the more you eat of it the less you feel inclined to stop. In fact, to eat Durians is a new sensation, worth a voyage to the East to experience. — Garden. An Early Pea,— The " PhUadelphia " is the name of a fine variety of the Pea, a sample of which has been left at our office by E. Rishel, Esq., of this county. Mr. Rishel says this Pea is very early, and will shell out in five weeks from planting. — Central Union Agriculturist. Seedling Raspberry from Mr. Price. — This is a dark variety — same color as Philadelphia, but belongs to the Ant- werp stock. The fruit is medium size, of good flavor, and evidently produced in great abundance. Its positive value will depend on comparison while grow- ing together with other kinds. — Gar- dener's Monthly. GrARRYA Elliptica. — This forms a fine hardy evergreen bush, which grows from six to ten feet high, and has a rath- er dense and spreading head, furnished with numerous slender shoots, which are downy when young, but quite smooth when fully matured. It is a native of North-west America and California, and was first introduced into England in 1828. It is easily increased either by layers or by means of cuttings of the half-ripened shoots, and grows freely in any good garden soil. The leaves are opposite, somewhat oblong or elliptic, with a small acute point, rather wa^'y when young, thick and leathery in text- ure, set on short footstalks, j^ersistent, of a dark shining green above and hoarj' beneath. The flowers, which are uni- sexual and on distinct plants, are ar- ranged in pendulous catkin-like racemes with connate bracts, and arc produced THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 347 from December to March. The male flowers fonn very long, slender pendu- lous catkins, from six to ten inches in length, and are of a greenish-white or yellowish color, while the female ones are produced in short green catkins not more than three or four inches in length, and are very deficient in graceful ap- pearance compared with that of the male ones. The fruit, which is produced in compact bunches, is a berried peri- carp containing two hard bony seeds, as large as a moderate-sized black currant, and of nearly the same color. Begonia. — This foliage plant is a very desirable one for the conservatory, the silver markings, distinctly formed, ren- der it an object of great beauty. The hybrids of this plant now being pro- duced, are goi'geous in the extreme. In^pcrialis—Yerj pale green leaves, suffused with rosy crimson, shaded red. Viltata — Blotched silvery white; leaves pointed. Sanguinea — Leaves deep glassy green; under side of a deep blood red. Bex — Leaves very large, purplish green, with a changeable metallic lustre, with a broad silvery zone around the leaf midway from the centre; under side purple. Madam Wagner — Leaves silveiy green , spotted, with very dark edge and centre. Urania — Nearly black green shiny leaves, all edged with crimson. rundala—Dixxk green leaves distinctly spotted. 3laincata — Very large leaves, light green, bordered with crimson; dotted under side, with crimson spikes. Argentea — Silvery green leaves, tinged purple. Nebidosa — Silvery green, with plainly marked dark margin. Maculata Ricinifolia — Very large leaves, artistically cut and very curious- ly marked. The Begonias do not succeed well out-doors; at least, if bedded out, should have a shaded border. They require plenty of moisture and warmth, with a soil formed of peaty mould and sand. To those who have not had much expe- rience in growing house-plants, we would advise them not to attempt the Begonia only upon a limited scale : to the con- servatory they are indispensable. — Ex. WOKK FOR THE MONTH. BY F. A. MILLEE. Although we had a heavy rain at the beginning of October, which moistened the ground several inches deep, the strong winds which followed absorbed all the moisture, and we are once again in the dry season ; however, an early winter is anticipated, and if indications prove true, we will have more rain early in November. This should put us in mind of some work which ought to be done before the wet weather commences. Seeds of various kinds of plants are now ripe and should be gathered; this should be done in the afternoon of a pleasant day, as the seeds are damp in the morn- ing. As soon as sufficiently dry, clean them and put them away in a dry, cool place, after marking carefully each kind. This will relieve you of purchasing the same kinds of seeds, and you have the advantage of knowing that they are fresh. Some Pans}' and Mignonette, Candy- tuft and Sweet Alyssum seed should be preserved for winter use; they flower well with us in winter. The Gladiolus bulbs which have flow- ered during summer, should be taken up now; expose them to the atmosphere 348 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. for a few days to dry them sufficiently, then put them away in boxes, and in some dry place until spring. Dahlias should be cut down to with- in six inches of the ground, and in a week or two after they should be taken up and treated in the same manner as Gladiolus. It is always well to mark them before cutting them down, so that the colors may be known when planting time comes. I will call attention again to the planting of all kinds of Dutch bulbs, such as Hyacinths, Tulips, Narcissus, Crocus, Anemones, Ranunculus, Lily of the Valley, Crown Imperials; particu- larly those which are intended for home- culture. Do not plant them all at once, but keep a few on hand for later plant- ing, so that some flowers may be had after the first lot has done blooming. Hyacinths, Narcissus, and Lily of the Valley, are particularly well adapted for home - culture, as they are easily taken care of. If planted in pots or in glasses, they should be set in a dark room for two weeks, where they will make roots and produce better stalks, which will at first appear rather yellow, but will soon assume a healthy green color, after being placed in the light for a day or two. The best soil for Hya- cinths is one-third loam, one-third sand, and one -third of old rotten manure. Always see that the soil is well drained by putting several pieces of broken pots over the hole in the bottom of the pot. Plant the bulbs so that the tops may just be seen on the surface, and settle the soil firmly all around the bulb. For the cultivation of the Lily of the Val- ley, I would refer the reader to page 261 of the present volume of the Horti- CULTUllIST. Camellias may now be kept tolerably moist, and should have a syringing over- head two or three times a week. It will also be very beneficial to carefully wash the foliage with a soft sponge. Not more than two buds should bo left in a cluster, if good and perfect flowers are desired. They must also be kept screened from the sun. Azaleas are forming their flower-buds, and a little more water may be given. From my own experience, I would ad- vise to syringe them frequently over- head. It is most important that Azaleas should have good drainage, and a little coarse charcoal at the bottom of the l^ots is of very good service, keeping the soil sweet, etc. The present month is the best time to make Rose cuttings for planting in frames as well as in the open ground. If to be grown under glass, the cuttings should not be longer than two to three inches, and should be j^lanted in pure sand; if intended for the open ground, make your cuttings four to six inches long of strong wood, and plant them in deej) sandy loam well worked up. To be successful with Rose cuttings under glass, a little bottom heat should be made up of fresh manure and tan, in which the boxes filled with cuttings as above stated, should be plunged after a thorough watering. The glass must not be lifted until the cuttings have made roots; and the most important point is, that they should never be watered until they are well rooted. Moisture is easi- ly kept up by keeping the frame close, as no evaporation can then take place. HoTEiA (Spiu^ea) Japonica. — This, al- though hardy, is an excellent plant for forcing. Its lively green foliage and charming white flowers make it extreme- ly useful in all kinds of ways, and the demand for bouquet work, as well as for furnishing purposes, is very great. It is easily grown, and no establi-shment should be without it. — The Garden. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 349 REPORT ON THE FRUIT AND VEGE- TABLE MARKET. BY E. J. HOOPER. The cultivation of the Grape is now of course one of the most important and valuable interests in California. It is somewhat interesting to observe from history, at what an early period, in England, the Grape vine was cultivated for wine and other purposes. The vale of Gloucester, according to William of Malmesbury, in the twelfth century, was planted very thick with vineyards, and they produced Grapes in the great- est abundance, and of the sweetest taste. The wine made there had no disagreeable tartness, and was said to have been very little inferiar to the wines of France. In Normandy, there was a vineyard from which wine was made as early as 1561. In 1550 there was no English wine, the climate prob- ably, even in the warmest locations, be- ing too cold. But in 1781, Lord Teyn- ham, in a very warm aspect, had such quantities of Grapes in Kent, that some years they made two or three tuns of white wine, little, if any inferior to Lis- bon. In general history the making of wine is recorded in the very earliest his- tory of nations. In the United States, wine making is comparatively of a re- cent date. The Swiss planted in the West the first vineyard, at Vevay, Indi- ana, on the Ohio River. They manufac- tured a wine similar to the "Cape wine" made at the Dutch colonies, at the Cape of Good Hope. About the year 1829, Nicholas Long- worth, of Cincinnati, planted the first cuttings of the Catawba and Isabella grapes, in his garden there, which had been discovered growing on the river Catawba, in North Carolina. His ten- ants, most of them Germans, soon planted large vineyards of these vines, Vol. in.— 45. and made a good, but somewhat acid wine, which suited their tastes, and al- so, after they got used to it, of many Americans. Mr. Longworth is justly en- titled to the name of the father of Grape culture in the West. During his time and since, many valuable seedlings from the Catawba and Isabella, and others, have been raised, the most pop- ular of which, for a red v^ne, is Ives' Seedling. Grape-growing has extend- ed to Missouri and other States, and to the islands of Lake Erie, and the lake shore. New varieties are still being introduced in the States east of us, which are freer from disease than those originally planted. However the prof- it of growing Grapes for wine in the Eastern States may be questioned, there can be no doubt of its success in this State. There is a fair foreign, as well as domestic demand for our Grapes and wine. We say, then, to all, plant more Grapes. There is no more healthful, life-giving, delicious fruit. Every farm- er and country resident should plant them for his family. Eveiy man who has a garden or patch of ground should cultivate a few vines. There is no mys- tery about Grape-growing; a man who can grow corn, can grow Grapes, and one who can make cider can make wine. This country is not only a large consum- er of fruit, but it is becoming rapidly one of the largest wine-consuming coun- tries in the world. In. California, at any rate, we can produce wine at a price low enough to be within the reach of the people, and probably thereby pro- mote temperance, and this can easily be continued, and still be one of the most remunerative crops the husbandman can raise. But we must be wise. The wool-grower of to-day does not raise the common and coarse wool-producing sheep that he did twenty years ago. Y 350 THE CALIFORNIA HOKTICTJLTUEIST Why ? Because improved breeds have been introduced, yielding a wool of finer texture, and commanding a higher price. So the Grape-grower must yield his prejudices, give up some of the old sorts, and plant such as command the popular taste. Our climate is favorable for every known variety of any value. Our soil is new and fertile, and our Grapes are rich, even if anything too rich, in saccharine material, and produce wine of finest quality without anything add- ed. Remember that in wine -growing we are yet in our infancy. We have a character to make, which is of more im- portance to us than dollars and cents at present. We must stick to the j^ure juice of the Grape. We say to all, plant Grapes; for what is more delicious in the heat of the day in summer, than to sit under your OM'n vine, and in the cool of autumn to eat of the fruit there- of? Quinces have now been marketed for some time, and bring such prices per bushel as pay the growers very well. We observe that numbers of boxes have been sent hy railroad to New York, and have proved profitable to the owner. The Apple Quince is the best variety, and can be gi'own on any good land that will grow well other varieties of fruit; but, like the Pear, we think a location Avhere the soil is not subject to extremes of drjTiess or moisture, is much the best. Where a choice must be taken of either of these extremes, moisture or proper irrigation is best suited for the Quince. Bushes should be j)lanted ten or twelve feet apart, and cultivated annually, as other orchards. If well done, they will be, on this cli- matic forcing slope, in good bearing in three or four years from the time of planting out. While on the subject of the general cultivation of fruit, I will here state that our most highly estee ed and eminent Pomologist, MarshalP. Wilder, Presi- dent of the XJ. S. Poiological Society, in his address at Bosti, in September last, among other exclent information and advice, after narag the wonders which had been eflfe ed within forty years in the United S tes in fruit rais- ing, observed : " These consideratii 8 should excite us to greater enterpi.e and renewed exertions. * * * /"e have but just entered upon it. Ho vast and invit- ing the field that lies i read out before us! * * * Were I lever to address you again, I would reiat the counsel I have so often given, a regard to the production of new an fine fruits [let us apply this to Cal irnia], viz. : To plant the most mature « d j>er/ect seeds, of (he mosf hardy, vigoi /k, and valuable varieties; and, as a shkr process, en- suring more certain an happy results, cross or hybridize your I gather in the fruit of their researches may tliey have reason to rejoice more ; d more in the benefactions which it b tows on man- kind; and when at last ) shall be call- ed to relinquish the cvivation of our orchards, gardens, ani vineyards on earth, may we pennitte to participate in the cultivation of ' That tree which bears ii aortal fruit, Without canker at the r< t; Its healing leaves to us 1 given. Its bloom on earth, its fr t in Heaven!' " In our markets, for lore than six weeks. Strawberries hta been quite abundant and of good quality. The first rain we had this i 1 helped the vines in their bearing, idependently ; -.1, i* «&»■■•■ '"r^mt^'^ !-».;«£ *- ' • i ekparHM' — l^lgmliiiai.r BOBTM im hHb «^ fteiLondit IW^^^ |1W1L-L "^^ THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 351 of -what irriga^tion they had. The fruit was of good size from the first, and still continues so to be. They have sold from 15 to 20 cts. per pound. Bartlett Pears were nearly out by the middle of last month. The Winter Nelis is now beginning to be in fine eat- ing order, with the Glout Morceau, and one or two more winter sorts. There was no material change in the fruit market October 24th. A few va- rieties of fruit are noticeable as being absent. Plums are among the number. The supply of Grapes showed no signs, then, of diminution, and prices continu- ed low. Beautiful Black Moroccos were retailing, about that time, at 12^ cts. per pound . The range of all kinds was from 8 to 15 cts. per pound. Straw- berries were in fair demand at 15 to 20 cts. per pound. Oranges were, at the last of October, virtually out of the mar- ket; and the prices of what few were to be found at one or two of the stalls were $1.50 and upwards. A few Peaches, only fit for cooking, were ofi'ered for 6 cts. per pound, at the beginning of the present month (November). A further consignment of Bartlett Pears were received from Pleasant Valley, about the above date. The fruit was small, but found a ready sale at 15 cts. per pound. About the 25th of October, we had several frosty nights, of a severity, for us, thus early, quite rare at this season of the year. These frosts have some- what curtailed the supply of several kinds of vegetables. We have had sev- eral fine lots of new Green Peas from Half Moon Bay and other places, which have been received with appreciatio«. These and String Beans have been a shade higher in price. Asparagus, in limited quantities, has come forward from the Mission gardens, and has sold at 50 cts. In addition to the above list, we quote Salsify, 8(^10 cts. per bunch; Lettuce, 25 cts. j^er dozen; Mint, 10 cts. per bunch; Pickles, 50(ai75 cts. per gal- lon; Potatoes, by the sack, delivered, $1.50@1.75 per 100 pounds. The supply of Strawberries was light the last of October, and prices were correspondingly high. More Bartlett Pears arrived about the same time from Pleasant Valley, Solano County, retail- ing at 15 cts. per pound. Plums and Peaches will soon disappear. Grapes are still jjlentiful (1st November). Some Lemons are still coming by each steam- er from Los Angeles, but more liberal quantities and much better fruit comes from the Mediterranean. Mr. S. B. Higgins, author of the work on Ophidians, transmits by mail some notes on the action of rattlesnake poi- son, by which it appears that the poi- son first affects the plasma, then the nerve-centre, communicating to the for- mer a distinctly acid condition. It de- fibrinates it; renders it thus permanent- ly diffluent, that is, incapable of coagu- lating, and this acid condition reacting upon the corpuscles, almost immediately afi'ects their color by attacking the hem- atosis, and separating it from the oth- er component elements. The sensory nerves are first affected, then the motor nerves; but the latter apjDcar to be most especially influenced, and in quite a dif- ferent way from what they are by the cobra poison. The fatal result is quick- er in the former than in the latter case, but none less surely (though sometimes it is many hours after the wound) death ensues. Days may elapse before the bitten person dies, as in case of bites by a hydrophis, a marine type of the snake. Cases of a hydrophis bite are known to have occurred where the bitten person has recovered. 352 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. (giclitorial C^^Wauiugisi. Now THAT the construction of an aqua- rium at Central Park is being urged, and our readers are becoming familiar with the great interest and value of such an institution, it is with pleasure that we are able to present the following description of the Aquarium at Wood- ward's Gardens, San Francisco. At present this work is not only the largest, but the only public aquarium of any size this side of the Atlantic; and, from a recent conversation with Mr. Wood- ward, we learn that no means is to be spared to make it equal to the greatest. At an early day we hope to present an illustrated description of this aquarium, with its surroundings; in the mean time, the following from the Weekly Alta will serve to convey an idea as to its size and general form: "The aquarium building is situated between the seal-pond and the entrance from the garden to the amphitheatre. The arrangement for the tanks beneath is very simple. They are sixteen in number, raised on each side so that one side of each tank is on a level with a man's shoulder. A person passing through this lower apartment sees on each side of him, as it Avere, sec- tions of the sea containing marine life. The side of the tank toward him is glass; the water is ^OJ)en to the sunlight above, and no light can reach the passage-way, except by first passing through the wa- ter in the tanks and the glass fronts. The tanks are made of Frear stone. The water for the marine fish is brought from the deep sea, near the Farallones, where it is found clear as crystal. It is kept constantly in motion, and aerated by the falling of a stream." In the interview with Mr. Woodward, to which we have referred, that gentle- man informed us that, though his aqua- rium was yet in its infancy, and in many particulars not what he designs that it shall be, yet it is to the people the most attractive feature of his gar- dens, successfully rivaling in interest the Zoological and Botanical Gardens, the Art Gallery, and many other attractions. Mr. Woodward expressed himself full of sympathy with our movement for the establishment of a similar institution at Central Park, and assured us that we could not overrate its importance, or present its claims in too strong language. — Appleton's Journal. A Yew Flowering in Winter. — About six weeks ago I nipped a small spray oflf a dwarf yew-tree, protruding through the snow, in my neighbor's garden. It was my intention to press it; but for im- mediate convenience it was put in a glass of water, in the sitting-room, and for some time no more was thought about it. A few days ago (Feb. 7), I was as- tonished to find a number of full blown flowers on the spray. These pretty, di- minutive objects w^ere accomj^anied with an interesting phenomenon. The an- thers kept up a little fusillade of explo- sions, throwing off the yellow pollen in tiny clouds. My thumb-nail, which happened to be near one of the little globular catkins about the size of a cana- ry's eje, was quite yellow with the eject- ed powder. I sliook oflf some on the side of a microscope. They were, in form, when under a lens of high pow- er, like angular pebbles, and although I had barely touched the slide with my nail, yet the number of pollen grains under the microscope was innumerable. To me, this aflfair was intensely interest- ing, and a very pleasant episode in a sick-room. The entire process can doubtless be repeated by any one, with the certainty of success, even in mid- winter. The pretty little strangers still THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 353 continue blooming on my table, and im- part a clieeriness to this unusually bleak St. Valentine's Day. — S. L., in Mon- mouth Democrat, Freehold, N. J. Plants as Doctors. — In addition to the pleasure that may be derived from Floriculture, the sanitarj^ value of flow- ers and plants is a feature of the subject so important as to call for special men- tion. It was known many years ago that ozone is one of the forms in which oxygen exists in the air, and that it pos- sesses extraordinary powers as an oxi- dant, disinfectant, and deodorizer. Now, one of the most important of late dis- coveries in chemistry, is that made by Professor Mantegazza, of Pavia, to the effect that ozone is generated in immense quantities by all plants and flowers pos- sessing green leaves and aromatic odors. Hyacinths, Mignonette, Heliotrope, Lem- on, Mint, Lavender, Narcissus, Cherry, Laurel, and the like, all throw off ozone largely on exposure to the sun's rays; and so powerful is this great atmos- pheric purifier, that it is the belief of chemists, that whole districts can be redeemed from the deadly malaria which infests them, by simply covering them with aromatic vegetation. The bearing of this upon flower culture in our large cities is also very important. Experi- ments have proved that the air of cities contains less ozone than that of the sur- rounding country, and the thickly in- habited parts of cities less than the more sparsely built, or than the parks and open squares. Plants, and flowers, and green trees can alone restore the bal- ance; BO that every little flower-pot is not merely a thing of beauty, while it lasts, but has a direct and beneficial in- fluence upon the health of the neigh- borhood in which it is found. Surely, it is a beautiful provision of Nature, that something which is at once the most dainty of occupations, and most delightful of amusements, should be intimately bound up with the solution of problems so important as the health of our cities and the redemption of fever-infected districts in the country. — Appleio'n's Journal. Plants in the Sleeping - room. — In a recent letter addressed by Professor Kedzie, of the Michigan Agricultural College, to Governor Holt, there were recorded facts which go far toward dis- sipating a popular error, that the pres- ence of plants in the sleeping -room endangers the health of the sleepers. The following is an extract from Pro- fessor Kedzie's letter: "Not to leave this matter in the condition of mere conjecture, I have gathered and ana- lyzed specimens of air from a room where the influence of growing plants would be exhibited in a greatly exag- gerated form. Thus, instead of taking the air from a room containing a few plants, I gathered it from the college greenhouse, where more than G,000 plants are growing. I gathered the air before sunrise on the mornings of April 16th and 17th; the room had been closed for more than twelve hours, and, if the plants exhaled carbonic acid to an in- jurious extent, the analysis of air from such a room would certainly disclose the fact. The three specimens of air gathered on the morning of April 16th, from different parts of the room, gave 4.11, 4.00 parts of carbonic acid in 10,000 of air, or an average of 4.03 in 10,000. The two specimens of air gath- ered April 17th gave 3. 80 and 3. 80 parts of carbonic acid in 10,000, or an aver- age, on the whole, of 3.94 parts of carbonic acid in 10,000 of air; while the out-door air contains four parts in 354 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 10,000. It will thus be seen that the air in the greenhouse was better thau " l^ure country air." This deficiency of carbonic acid was doubtless due to the absorption of carbonic acid and conse- quent accumulation of oxygen during daylight, since the windows of the greenhouse were closed day and night on account of the cool weather. Now, if a room in which were more than 6,000 plants contains less carbonic acid than any sleeping-room on this conti- nent, we may safely conclude that one or two dozen plants in a room will not exhale enough carbonic acid by night to injure the sleepers." Tbout Breeding on Long Island. — The trout breeding business is becoming very extensive on the south side of the island, and is proving very profitable. Mention has recently been made of the preparations of ex-Congressman Roose- velt, Mr. Lorillard, and other well- known New Yorkers, for going into the business on an extensive scale. There is talk of other similar enterprises, soon to be started. Among the establish- ments already in successful operation may be mentioned the following: Mr. Bishop, of Fire Place, two years ago conceived the idea of having a trout pond. He dug out a swamp, built a hatching-house, and formed two artifi- cial ponds. These he stocked with a few trout, which have increased to very nearly 20,000, valued at about $10,000. The entire capital invested by him does not exceed $1,500, and his net receipts will be at least $3,000 per annum. Mr. A. J. Hines of Palace Brook, near Patch- ogue, hatched 50,000 trout this spring. He owns three ponds, and a hundred yards of canals. Mr. Nathaniel Miller, of Fire Place, has erected a hatching-house and dug out several small pc-ids, and now owns about 15,000 trout, all obtained by artifi- cial hatching. Messrs. Dayton &, Greg- ory, of Canaan, own a small pond, and half an acre of land ditched out. They devote their whole time to the business, which at present nets them $3 ,000 a year. Mr. Nelson C. Hawkins, of Bellfort has constructed a large trout pond this sea- son. The Messrs. Robinson, near the Swan Creek Mill, are constructing a pond and a series of canals, and propose to go ex- tensively into the business. Mr. Rob- ert Bland, of Patchogue, has construct- ed ponds and canals, and is now engaged in stocking them. Many others are go- ing into the business on a smaller scale. — Slioe and Leather Reporter. Floral Prizes for the Poor. — Ow- ing to the efforts of a London gentle- woman, Lady Augusta Stanley, a show of window plants cultivated by the poor of the parishes of St. Margaret's and St. John's, was lately held at Westmin- ster. The working men and women — the term in this district meaning gener- ally the laboring and not the artisan class — formed the first class, the chil- dren in the local schools formed the second, and the inmates, or sometime inmates, of the local workhouses and Westminster hospital made the third. The judging was in the hands of a gen- tleman from the Horticultural Society, and the prizes were distributed by Lord Shaftsbury in the evening, and he made a happy speech on the occasion. It is often a sui-prise to American travelers to observe how many windows in the poorer pai'ts of English and con- tinental cities, are adorned by carefully nurtured floweiing plants, displaying a degree of taste which such an occasion as the above is admirably calculated to recognize and encourage. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 355 The Plaxtain.— The Plantain ( Jfum paradisaica ) is one of the best gifts of Providence to the teeming' multitudes of tropical lands, living as many of them do, without stated homes, and gather- ing food and drink as they find them, on the roadside and in the jungle. Under a friendly palm the simple peas- ants find needed shelter from the sun by day and the dews by night, while a bunch of Plantains or Bananas plucked fresh from the tree will furnish an abundant meal, and the water of a green Cocoanut all the drink they desire. The Piaintain tree grows to be about twenty feet in height, its round soft stem being composed of the elongated footstalks of the leaves, and its cone of a nodding flower-spike or cluster of purple blos- soms that are very graceful and beauti- ful. Like the Palms, this tree has no branches, but its smooth, glossy leaves are from six to eight feet in length and two or more in breadth. At the root of a leaf a double row of fruit comes out half round the stalk; the stem then elongates a few inches, and another leaf is deflected, revealing another double row; and so on, till there come to be some thirty rows containing about two hundred Plantains, weighing in all sixty or seventy pounds. This mam- moth bunch is the sole product of the tree for the time; after the fruit is pluck- ed the stalk is cut down, and another shoots up from the same root; and it is thus constantly renewed for many suc- cessive years. The incalculable blessing of such a tree, in regions where the in- tolerable heat renders all labor oppress- ive, may be conceived from the estimate of Humboldt, who reckons the surface of ground needed to the production of four thousand pounds of ripe Plantains, to suffice for the raising of only thirty- three pounds of AVheat, or ninety-nine pounds of Potatoes. What would in- duce the indolent East Indian to make the exchange of crops? — LippincoWs Marjazine. Rooting Cuttings of Carnations. — An amateur from Des Moines, Iowa, having complained of ill success in rooting cut- tings of Carnations or Pinks, though successful with Fuchsias, Geraniums, Coleus , and Begonias , he is advised as fol- lows by The Agriculturist: " The varieties he succeeds with we all find to root quicker than the Carna- tion or Pink, but not more surely if the proper conditions be observed. These conditions are, that the plant of Carna- tion or Pink from which the cuttings are taken must be in a healthy growing condition. The temperature of the sand of the propagating bench in which the cutting is inserted should range from sixty-five to seventy-five degrees, and the atmosphere fifteen degrees less. The sand must always be kept moist, and great care must be taken that nei- ther sun nor draught of air strike the cuttings long enough to wilt or shrivel them, for if once shrivelled nearly all hope of rooting them is gone." Campanula Turbinata Elegans. — Of all the dwarf Campanulas suitable for beds, this is the most ornamental in the lai-ge and beautiful family of bell-flow- ers, forming as it does, a compact leaf growth, and yielding from seed a mass of comparatively large, rich, purplish- blue, white, and porcelain-white flowers during the summer months. To have it in bloom during the first season, it should be sown in the earliest spring months, and thus treated, it will flower in the summer and autumn; or, if the plants bedded one season are again di- vided for planting in May, these will bloom effectively in the summer months; and if sown in May, vigorous plants 356 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. will be secured for the following year. Campanula turhinala elegans, sent out by Messrs. E. G. Henderson, is a hybrid between C. tiirbinnta and C. carpatica, and it is greatly superior to both its parents as a decorative summer flower. — The Garden. The Agricultueal Show — Pure and 8imj)le, without government patronage — is peculiarly an English institution, but English colonies seem to vie with the old country in the matter. In New South Wales, say the pajDers, "the opening-day is made the occasion of an almost regal pageant." Governors, members of Parliament, foreign agents, heads of the learned professions, with their ladies, all lend eclat to the affair. The prizes offered are small, and exhib- itors have to pay for the feed consumed by their stock. But they turn out well, nevertheless; and many sales are made, which last fact is quite contrary to our experience in this country. At the last show it is said that Short-Homs changed hands to the amount of £17,000 — one cow going for £1,150, and well-bred bull calves ranjnnof from £100 to £200. Sheep in Orchards. — J. Higgins stated at a late meeting of the Alton Horti- cultural Society, that he had long been in the practice of turning sheej) into his Apple-orchards, and as long as they have green pasture they will not touch the bark of the trees; but they are care- fully watched. He has one old sheep only that knows how good Apple-bark is. "When there is snow on the ground, the sheep will of course eat the bark. But the only time when the presence of the sheep is needed, is in summer when the wormy fruit is dropping. We know a farmer in western New York who turns his sheep in his large orchard during the day, and into another field at night; they never touch the trees, and he finds the codling moth growing scarcer each successive year. — Goiinlry Gentleman, Transportation of Milk. — The milk cans in which the milk is conveyed over the railways in France are made of a similar shape to ours, but the lids are so arranged that by turning a screw they can be forced down on the milk, and thus prevent all motion. The cans are wrapped in woolen cloths, and these are wet from time to time as they may need it. The evaporation of the moisture keeps down the temperature of the milk, and no difficulty is experienced in car- rying it a long distance, even in warm weather. METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, Foe the Month Ending Oct. 31st, 1873. (Prepared for The Horticultiibist by Thos. Tennent, Mathematical Instrument and Chronometer-maker, No. 423 Washington Street, near the Post Office). BAKOMETEB. Mean height at 9 a. m 30.14 In. do 12m 30.13 do 3P.M 30.13 do 6p. M 30.12 Greatest height, on the 27th at 9 a. m. and 12 m. . . 30.25 Least height, on the 2d at 6 p. m 29.95 THEEMOMETEB. ( WUh north exposure and freejrom reflected heat.) Mean height at 9 a. m 57° do 12m 63° do 3 p. M 64^ do G p. M 5G^ Greatest height, on the 12th at 12 m 76° Least height, on the 21st at 6 p. m 48° SELF - EEGISTEEING THEEMOMETEB. Mean height during the night 49° Greatest height, on nights of 12th and 19th 65° Least height, on night of 26th 39° WINDS. North and north-west on 13 days; south and south-west on 4 days; east and north-east on 4 days; west on 10 days. WEATHEE. Clear on 22 days; variable on 8 days; cloudy on 3 days. BAIN GAUGE. October Gth 0.14 inches. October 8th 0.54 " Total 0.68 " Total rain of the season up to date 0.86 " -^ PARLOR GARDENING. THE AND FLORAL MAGAZINE. Vol. til DECEMBER 1873. N'o. 12. OUR CALIFOENIA FEENS. ET F. A. MILLER. Stxange as it may seem, our native Ferns are very little known, and hardly any of them are under cultivation "with us or abroad. Within the last year, I have paid much attention to Ferns in general, and to our native varieties in particular, and I am pleased to say that a large number of them are very meri- torious, and are much improved by proper cultivation. There are some which have not yet been classified by our botanists, and, undoubtedly, there will yet be found a great many species which are entirely unknown at the pres- ent time. I think, in another year, I shall be able to enumerate forty distinct species of native Ferns. At present, we cultivate some twenty- five distinct varieties, and most of these seem to thrive exceedingly well under proper treatment. In making up col- lections of Ferns, our native kinds should not be overlooked, inasmuch as they form a decided contrast to those which are annually imported from for- eign countries. There is no good reason why we should prefer foreign plants to our native ones, if these are as meri- torious as the former; and yet, I must acknowledge the fact that I can sooner dispose of foreign Ferns, at a price five and ten times higher than we are in the habit of asking for our native varieties. For rockeries in the open air, our Cal- ifornia Ferns are preferable to any others, and, intermingled with foreign Ferns in greenhouse or conservatory collections, they form a very desirable contrast. The following varieties I. have under cultivation now, and with few excep- tions they have done well : Polypodium Calif oniicum is found nearly everywhere in California grow- ing upon shaded rocks; under cultiva- tion, the fronds grow much larger and finer, and almost upright. It requires no care whatever, and thrives best in a shady and moist situation. Fronds seven to eight inches long, and two inches wide, of a very bright green. Polypodium Scouleri is one of the rarest Ferns we have, and is a veiy dis- tinct form. Fronds very fleshy lobed; the fruit-dots upon the back of the frond are unusxuilly large and showy. It is found upon I'ocks at the highest points of the Coast Eange mountains, exposed to the heaviest winds; evergreen; be- haves well under ordinary treatment; requires good drainage. 3G0 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. PeUcea andromerla'foJla is one of a cl.ass well represented in California. All of them produce pretty and graceful fronds. This Fern is of very light green color, with brown stems. It is much improved by cultivation, and is a strong grower. Its natural habitat is under the shade of shrubs and small trees. FeUwa viucronatn is of a more upright growth; fronds delicate and graceful; dark green, with a dark brown stem. Changes its habit very much, for the better, under cultivation. It is found upon bare, dry hill-sides near the Coast Range, PeUcea accuminata is the most grace- ful and delicate of this class; fronds of a sea-green color; leaflets in single rows; stems dark brown; slow grower, but otherwise improves under cultiva- tion; it is found in the Sierra Nevada mountains, at an elevation of about 5,000 feet; not common. PeUcea Bridgesii is one of the rarest and prettiest of our California Ferns. The leaflets are large oval, of a downy white color; stem black, producing a most pleasing eff"ect. It is extremely slow in adapting itself to cultivation ; but I have now a number of the plants which are readily producing well devel- oped fronds. It is found in the Sierra Nevada, at an elevation of 6,000 to 7,000 feet, and grows upon bare, rocky bluffs, formed of limestone. PeUcea densa is. a pretty little dwarf- growing Fern of a peculiar form, and of a veiy dark green color, with brown stems. PeUcea sp., a variety not yet described, I found associated with PeUcea Bridg- esii; fronds growing eight to ten inches high, of a downy white color; leaflets very small. Gymnogramma triangularis — our Cal- ifornia Goldfern — is found in all parts of the State. It is easily cultivated, and deserves a place in every collection. Succeeds best if kept moderately moist and half shaded. The backs of the triangularly formed fronds are covered with bright golden yellow powder, with dark brown veins. Woodwardia radicans, sp. Californica, differs from the W. radicans cultivated in Europe. The fronds of the former grow more upright and robust. How- ever, our California variety is a most exquisite Fern; well -developed fronds reach the height of ten feet. The Wood- luardia is very fond of moisture, and is found near springs and creeks. Under cultivation it thrives well, if an abund- ance of moisture is provided. Aspidium argutam is found plentiful- ly all over California; its fronds are tender, and do not bear handling; color, light green. Asjndiani munitum is found in the ravines of the Coast Range mountains, and is undoubtedly the finest native Fern. It is also found in the Sierra Nevada, but very rare, and, in my opinion, there are two distinct species. The one growing near the coast is a very strong grower, of upright habit, and light green color, while the other one, found in the Sierr^ Nevada, is of a dark green color, and its fronds si)read close to the surface of the ground. Both are varieties well worth having, and easily cultivated. Aspidium Californicuvi is my best grower, and can be most advantageous- ly used for ferneries, rockeries, baskets, and bouquets, either in the shade or in exposed situations, in a moist or dry locality; its fronds are of a most i:)leas- ing form and color, always j)erfect. Clieilanthes Californicum — a Fern which is found plentifully in the Sierra Nevada, but which I have not yet suc- ceeded in cultivating with any degree of success. The back of the frond is THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 3G1 coA'ered with a brown powder-like sub- stance, while the face of it is of a very dark green color. Cheilanfhes graciUima is, I think, the most valuable of our Ferns; of a most distinct form and character. The form of the frond is very pretty and graceful, the color is of downy white, closely re- sembling that of Cineraria maritima. Very rarely found in the southern parts of the State. CheiJanihes sp., a variety not yet de- scribed, and found near the boundary line of California and Arizona; of a more dwarfish growth than the former, equally as graceful; very rare. Blechnum bo7'ealis, one of the best Blechntims that ever came under my ob- servation. The fronds are of good sub- stance, and perfectly hardy; a really good Fern, but not often met with, except in one or two localities of the northern part of California; plant worth having. Cystopteris fragilis and C. montana are two beautiful Ferns of excellent habit, and easy culture. They are found in the Santa Cruz mountains, rather plentifully. Botrychiuni sp., not yet described by any one. During last summer, I found two distinct species, which I have now under cultivation, with very fair success. The fronds are most remarkably fleshy and spreading, of a dark green color. Another species found, produces much lighter fronds, of a light green color. Axplennun eberteum, ; a pretty plant lately discovered, and giving every indi- cation that it will figure as a valuable addition to our Ferns. Dr. Kellogg says that he has found, during his recent stay in Yosemite Val- iej, a "■Woodsia." I have not yet been able to see the plant, and can not say anything in regard to its merits; but it is evident that a g'ood number will be added to those already known, during the next twelve months. TREATMENT OF THE AMARYLLIS. BY CONEO KRETCHMAK. The different sorts of Amaryllis are indisputably the most beautiful, and by far the most grateful in returns of bulb- ous plants for the green and hot house. These are also well adapted for the sit- ting-room. The finest kinds can be brought into bloom there, and often in the winter season, when every flower is of double value. The Amaryllis family, like the Dra- caenas, Aletris, Charlivodia, Cordyline, Dianella, etc., has been divided by botanists according to the diversity in the formation of flowers, the pollen of flowers, the seed capsule, etc., etc., into different genera, viz: 1, Amaryllis (A. belladonna); 2, Am- mocharis (A. ancoranica); 3, Brimsrigia (A. Josephine); 4, Bujyhoiie (A. tox- icaria); 5, Coburgia (A. seticulata); 6, Hyppeastrum (A. regintc); 7, Lycor'is (A. aurea); 8, Nerine (A. sarniensis); 9, OporantheiLS (A. lutea); 10, Spredia (A. formosissima) ; 11, Struniaria (A. crispa); 12, Vallotta (A. purpurea). Notwithstanding the many strictly divided or classified genera, they are to the florist and amateur, in all their vari- eties, a favorite flower. Only a few species preserve their leaves through the whole year. Most of them have a period of rest, which is absolutely necessary to the perfection of a free and luxuriant flowering. The difierent sorts do not approach their rest at the same time — some entering upon it in summer, others in winter. It requires only a little attention to dis- cover this. When no more new leaves 3G2 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. are seen, and the old ones stop growth, by degrees become enfeebled and lose their suoculent green, or begin to turn yellow at the leaves, the time of rest is at hand. If these signs are observed, watering should be withheld by degrees ; and when the leaves turn yellow and wilt down, they must be dejirived of it alto- gether. When arrived at this state, the pots containing the bulbs should be put on a back shelf in the green or hot house, or any other suitable place where they are out of the influence of the sun. They should be left there till a new growth takes place, which can be dis- covered in the appearance of new leaves, or a flower-bud and stem; the latter, in some sorts, making their appearance before the leaves. Then is the time to repot them. Take the bulbs from the pots and shake out all the soil from be- tween the roots. Care should be taken not to break or wound the latter, as it will hinder their activity in growth, or bring on decay of the bulb. All sound roots should be left untouched, but the dead, rotten, or damaged should be cvxt ofi' with a sharp knife. As soon as the earth has been removed, and the bulbs cleansed of all useless and dead skins, they should be replanted. For this purpose use six or seven-inch pots. Put a handful of bits of broken pots at the bottom and cover them with soil made up in the shape of a hill of the proper height, to receive the base of a bulb. Place the bulb upon it, and spread the roots evenly on all sides of it, holding the neck of the bulb with one hand, and filling in the soil with the other. Give the pots a slight shaking to settle the earth among the roots. When the pot is full, the earth should be pressed down gently, so as to leave a space of half an inch between it and the toj) of the pot for the reception of water. In planting, the bulb shoi\ld be set so that the neck rises high above the gi-ound; and the longer the neck, the more nec- essary this arrangement, so as to bring the strong influence of the sun upon the bulb, which is needful for the formation of new flower-germs. With respect to the soil, the Amarj-l- lis does not make as strong claims as many other si)ecies of plants. How- ever, this rule must be strictly regarded, that no fresh undecomposed vegetable or animal matter be mixed with it, as the consequences would be the rapid decay of the bulb. The best compost for the Amaryllis is well-rotted turfy peat, or a mixture of loam and leaf mold, or hot-bed muck. To each add a good quantity of sharp white sand. The watering of the Amaryllis should not be done in an indifl'erent way, but must keep equal pace with their growth. With the exception of evergreen species, they should not be watered at all dur- ing their periods of rest. When the bulbs show signs of new life, and are already repotted, if there is some moist- ure in the earth, do not water them, for the first few days. If the soil gets very dry, or is dry already, when potting the bulb pour a little water around the edge of the pot, but do not moisten the bulb itself. In general they should be watered so that the water enters the earth near the outer edge of the pot, and never over the bulb, as onl}' the ends of the root, and not the bulb it- self, absorb the water, and such nutri- tious substances as are dissolved by it. If the growth is rapid, an abundance of water should be given. Once or twice a week a thin solution of sheep manure may be given, or horn chips, or scrap- ings from the combmakers worked in the soil. This is done when the roots ai-e filling the i)ot, in order to perfect the flowers. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 363 After blooming, water should be given according to the growth, and when diminishing, graduall}' withdrawn till the cessation of growth, when the watering should cease also. The evergreen species should never be allowed to dry out, but must be kept moist, and at their time of growth re- ceive a liberal supply of water. Except during their period of rest, the Amaryllis can not be kept in too sunny a place. Their perfection, viz: a plentiful bloom, depends chiefly on the unbounded influence of the sun up- on the bulbs. For this reason, whether in the greenhouse, sitting-room, or oj^en air, the most sunny location should be chosen. The maturity, viz: the forma- tion of the future flower-germs, is the more completely'' attained the more the bulb is under the influence of the sun. The practice here and there of taking the bvilbs out of the pots, and keeping them dry during their periods of rest, is in nowise to be recommended. By this method the roots dry up, and are consequently lost. However dry the bulbs may become in the pot during their periods of rest, still they will not be so dr}', but that they will be enabled to start a new growth as soon as they are transplanted into fresh soil; conse- quently these have a great advantage over those which are deprived of their roots, and which must wait on the favors of time and nature to renew their strength and beaut3^ The Amaryllis bulbs are propagated in two different ways. First, by ofi"sets formed on the jjarental bulb; secondly, by seeds. The oftsets are removed from the parent bulb, and repotted singly, or with several in one pot. As soon as they have reached an independent ex- istence, they should be treated as old roots. The seed should be sown, if the seas- on is favorable, right after their ma- turity, or in the following spring. Sow them in seed pans, in a light Amaryllis comj:)ost. Water them moderately, and set them in a hot-bed. Keep a close observance of their condition, and see that a soft and equal moisture is pre- served, when they will soon germinate. The seedlings require the same treat- ment as the offsets. If there are no hot-beds where the young seedlings or oflsets can be planted out, they may be planted singly in the smallest sized pots that can be obtained. As often as the roots reach the outside of the pot, they should be transi^lanted to a larger sized one, without disturbing the ball of earth. The less the roots are disturbed, the sooner they will inclose the new earth again, and take their nourishment out of the same. This advice is only a seeming contradiction to that given in regard to the older bulbs. The latter commence annually a new period of growth, while the young bulbs require a growth uninterrupted, which would be intermitted if the earth was shaken from the roots, thus preventing the rapid acomplishment of their maturity. Amaryllis bulbs imported either from Europe or their native country, are generally in a dry, shrunken condition on their arrival here, and without roots. Their condition would lead many to conclude that they should be placed immediately in the earth, and their growth renewed; but this would be the mistake of ignorance, because it might be in contradiction to the natural dis- position of the species. With a knowl- edge of the nature of the respective species, it is easy to bring the growth of the bulb in unison with its natural period of activity; but if not thus acquainted with its nature, it is best to put the bulb into a pot of loaming sand, and set it aside in a dry place of mod- 3C4 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. erate temperature, where there is no danger of further shrinking in, or of premature dampness. Let their condi- tion he under constant observation ; and as soon as the least sign of growth is seen, either in the formation of the roots, or the swelHng of the head of the bulb, then is the time to pot and ad- vance the same in a raised temperature, which agrees with them. Bottom heat is best. To such bulbs the smallest pots possible should be given; but as often as they fill with roots, they should be shifted without hurting the roots. — The Gardener's Mordhhj. JFlowering of Aplecteum. — With us the flowering of Apledram hyemale Nutt. appears to be an exceedingly rare event; so much so, that close watching of the plant in our woods, for several years, on my part, has been unrewarded by a single instance of its blossoming. The experience of others corroborates the conclusion that it is a shy bloomer, at least in Michigan. I am anxious for in- formation on the point referred to, as to other localities. A friend once succeed- ed in obtaining the flowers by taking ujd the plants in the spring, and keeping them in saucers of the rich black mould which the Aplectrum loves so well, thor- oughly moistened. A jjlant which I once potted sent up a fine scape, several inches high, but, owing to the want of jDroper care during my absence from home, it did not come to perfection. The Aplectrum was formerly well re- presented in the woods north of Detroit; but the encroachment of that city is fast destroying the station which was remark- able for the abundance of this now scarce plant. However, it is, even now, far from exhausted. On the 20th of AjDril 1873, I took from a space about ten feet square, in a piece of beech woods, thir- ty of these plants, which I transplanted to my garden, in hope to see them blos- som. I shall duly communicate the re- sult. Some years ago, I gave several handsome roots to a Boston friend, for cultivation; but I have never heard since regarding thorn. Some which I have ke2)t potted for three years invariably send up eveiy summer their large, many plaited leaves, which remain throughout the winter as usual; but the flowers are not produced. It maybe that, in order to procure the desired result, the pot should not be kept housed during the winter, but remain plunged in the open ground. I have thought that perhaps the de- struction of the native forest, depriving the plant of some element necessary to its perfect development, is the cause of its seldom or never blossoming here. This is a suggestion worthy of note as regards the history of other plants as well as of this one. Of late years the Aplec- trum is, with us, of less luxuriant growth than formerly. — Henky Gillman, Dciroil, Michigan, in American Naluraliat. The Lime or Linden, in Europe, is an important tree. Those in the town of Morat are celebrated in the history of Switzerland. One was planted in 1476, to commemorate the defeat of the Bur- gundians, under Charles the Bold; the other was a noted tree at the time of the battle, and is now nearly nine cen- turies old. But equally famous is the one at Wurtemburg, called the ' ' Great Linden," six centuries ago. It is prob- ably one thousand years old, and meas- ixres 35^ feet in girth. Four and a half centuries ago, its branches were sup- ported by sixty-seven columns of stone, now increased to one hundred and six, many of which are "covered with in- scriptions." THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 365 PEPPERMINT— (MENTHA PIPERITA.) BY DR. C. A. STIVEES. I have taken the liberty from time to time of using the columns of your jour- nal, for the purpose of directing the at- tention of cultivators of the soil in this State to the various plants v^hich might be grown with profit to themselves, and general benefit to all. In furtherance of this plan of mine, I desire in this short article to speak of a simple little herb, which at present commands but little attention, and is cultivated but to a limited extent upon this coast, although it is one of consid- erable importance, and likely to yield a good return for the labor and money invested. So common is the Peppermint herb, that it requires no description at my hands. It is a native of Great Britain, from whence it has spread over Europe and the United States, becoming as it were native even in these parts of the world. In England and in the Eastern States, it is largely cultivated for its volatile oil — great quantities of which are used. The herb requires but little cultivation; merely a moist soil, and to be passably free from weeds. In order to maintain its flavor in perfection, and have it yield the largest percentage of oil, it is necessary to reset the roots every three years. The cutting of it should be done just as the flowers expand. The oil is obtained by distillation (which is a sim- ple operation, and soon learned); four pounds of the fresh herb yield, accord- ing to Baume, from one to three drams of the oil. This oil sells very readily at from |3.50 to $4.50 per pound, with a steady demand, there being nearly 500 pounds used in this city alone, per year. The dried herb is also an article of commerce, large quantities being Vol. III.-47. thus prepared. At present, the bulk of the oil sold in the United States is produced in the State of Michigan, where the mint herb is raised in large quantities. That the cultivation of the Pepper- mint would be remunerative in Califor- nia, I have no doubt. There are vast areas of low swampy lands in the State well suited to its culture, and when we take into consideration the length of our growing season, the advantages, as all will see, must be greatly in our fa- vor, and we might readily expect that the yield would be very large. Is not this matter worthy of a trial? ADIANTUMS. BY MANSFIELD MILTON, NORTH EASTON, PA. Maiden-hair Ferns are univerally ad- mired; no genus of Ferns being more graceful in character or better adapted for growing in glass cases than some of the species, and none excels them in the formation of bouquets. The culture of a good many of these species is very easy, and no collection of plants but ought to contain a few of them. They are propagated from spores and by di- vision of the root. Propagating from spores is the most interesting of horticultural operations. I shall give a few remarks upon the mode generally practiced, which may be applied to all Ferns grown from spores. Mix a compost of small lumps of peat, charcoal, broken pieces of pots, and a good quantity of fine sand; take six- inch pots, give good drainage, and fill to about an inch of the rim with this compost; give a thorough watering, then scatter the seeds oi- spores evenly over the soil, laying a piece of glass on the rim of the pot, and set the pots in 3GG THE CALIFOKNIA HOETICULTUEIST. pans coutaining about an inch of water, placing them under the stage of the greenhouse, or in some shady place where moisture and heat are plentiful. Change the water in the pans occa- sionally, and thus prevent the soil from souring. On the surface of pots, on moist walls, and under stagings of houses where Ferns are grown, young plants will con- tinually make their appearance. If those specially grown in pots, as also those coming up spontaneously through the house, are planted into flats about an inch apart, as soon as the first frond appears, and allowed to remain until large enough for potting singly into thumb pots, then judiciously managed by regular shifting, and otherwise treat- ing properly, you will soon attain large specimens. Adiantums thrive best in soil com- posed of three parts i^eat and one part good fresh loam, with plenty of white sand. Allow the compost to lie a few days previous to using. Give jDretty large pots with plenty of drainage, which should be done thoroughly, as good drainage is indispensable to all plants requiring a good supply of water. Al- though a class of plants the foliage of which repels water, a good many species are very impatient with much syringing over-head, especially the Irapeziforme group, the foliage of which gets black with too much of it. The following are some of the most beautiful and easiest cultivated: A. assimile. — A beautiful evergreen species with dark green foliage, from Australia, of easy culture, requiring shade and plenty of moisture. As the centre of large plants is apt to get open, it is well to divide the plants and grow in medium sized pots for handsome specimens. ^1. cunealum. — The best known of the Maiden -hair Fenis ; one of the most useful for boucjuet making, and easy of culture; native of Brazil. A. colpodes. — Another beautiful Fern for cutting, requiring more heat than the preceding, being a native of tropical America. A. concinmum. — A beautiful Fern for exhibition, having a dx'ooping habit and very distinct; variety /fe/«m; is a good deal superior in habit and general beau- ty. Requires plenty of heat to see its real loveliness. A. excisum multifidum. — Agarden vari- ety, making a handsome plant when well grown, suitable for bouquet making; the apex of the frond is divided, form- ing a beautiful " tassel." It does well in greenhouse temperature, but attains a looser habit when grown in a stove. A. Farleyense. — The most magnificent Fern in cultivation, having broad pen- dulous fronds, the sterile pinnae being beautifully fringed. Although only in- troduced into England from Barba^oes in 1865, some superb plants of it are possessed by several of the London nurserymen, but two plants in the ex- cellent collection of Mr. Such, New Jersey, are said to equal any in cultiva- tion. Too much praise can not be given it. No one can see it without admiring its gracefulness ; and none having ac- commodation for growing, ought to be without a plant of it. A. formosuvi. — A fine greenhouse species, easily grown, and admirably adapted for cutting and exhibition pur- j^oses. A. falaum. — Another easily cultivated Fern from New Zealand. A. macroj^hyllum. — A handsome hot- house Fern from the West Indies, hav- ing large erect-growing fi'ouds, the pin- nse being a faint pink when young, changing to dark green. A. tencrum. — An evergreen hothouse THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 367 species with large fronds, growiog very strong with plenty of heat and moisture. From the s^Dores of this species, A. Farlei/ense and A. Gheesbrighli are sup- posed to have been raised. A. trwpezxfor'mevar. Lanciw Calharince. — A noble Fern of easy culture, beau- tifully adapted for decorative purposes, requiring a brisk heat when sending up its fronds, but will do remarkably well in a greenhouse temperature. Great care should be taken not to syringe over- head, as it causes the piunoe to get black; nor the young fronds to be handled, as it destroys them. — Gardener's Montldy. HOW TO PLANT AND MANAGE HONEY LOCUST HEDGES. We extract the following from one of Jas. D. Budd's circulars, in regard to Honey Locust Hedges: The Honey Locust belongs to a family of plants which do not sprout, and up- on which the borer never works. The Red Bud and Kentucky Coffee- tree be- longs to the same sub-order as the so- called Honey Locust. The plant is Three -thorned Acacia. As to its being a larger tree — in a hedge-row the whole character of the plant is changed. Under pruning the leaves become smaller, the branches more numerous and subdivided, and thorny, and like the Norway Spruce it seems to fall naturally into a dwarfed habit. All this is specially indicated in the old Honey Locust hedge at Elizabeth- town, New Jersey. This hedge — now over forty years established — is one mile in length, has always been "pig tight and bull strong," and is at this time pronounced by competent judges the most perfect hedge in the United States. My own young hedges, some three or four miles in extent, some of them ready to be turned out — demonstrate the question as to developing thorns by " cutting back." This point has been much discussed by the people, as it is found that a large proportion of the young plants as they come from the nursery are destitute of thorns. I have a Honey Locust hedge eighty rods in length originally set with select plants, every one of which was thornless. The tops were cut back when set. The cut- ting back and check in transplanting developed thorns uj^on half the plants the first summer. Every plant in the whole line is now not only thorny, but intensely thorny. A Honey Locust in good soil with free growth might be destitute of thorns; crowd it into a close hedge -row and subject it to cutting back, and not only will thorns come from the axils of the leaves, but from adventitious buds along the main stems and branches. I lay it down as a posi- tive rule, that if any plants do not at- tain thorns rmder common treatment, every one of them may be made thorny by cutting back in midsummer. No plant used in hedging is as easy to transplant as the Honey Locust. If the plants are in good shape, with com- mon care in setting, not one in a thou- sand will miss doing well. Put in hedge- row about ten inches apart. Let the plants grow all they can the first sum- mer. In the fall mulch with coarse manure. I have found this to be a great gain, in saving the newly set plants from being thrown out and in- jured by frost, and it also promotes a healthy, vigorous growth the next sum. mer. If you resolve on growing a hedge upon the pyramid cutting -back plan, cut the plant back severely each spring, just before time of starting of the sap, for the first three years after setting. The fourth and fifth summers cut back 308 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. in spring and again in midsummer, to more completely thicken up the hedge, and to develop thorns. At the end of five years, with good care, you will have a hedge that will literally tui-n man and beast. If a fence is needed sooner, it can be turned out against any stock at the end of the fourth summer, by stretching one wire over the top, at- tached to stakes driven down in the line of the hedge. These stakes should not be so long as to interfere with the after trimming of the hedge, if the stakes and wires are left in the hedge. Flowering Shrubs. — Ovir flowering shrub* have, and are, giving us a pro- fusion of bloom ; one vaiiety in particu- lar I propose to speak of at more length, the Weigela. This is a most beautiful, and by far too rare a plant in our rural gardens. It is easily propagated from layers, or cuttings started in a shaded hotbed. This beautiful shrub belongs to the genus Dervilla, but owes its popu- lar name to the German botanist, Wei- gel, who introduced it into Europe. Of this genus there are several varieties, the most disseminated of which, being first introduced, is the Weigela rosea — in pronouncing the name give the soft sound of g. Many seedlings have been produced from this, some of which show decided improvements over the original. Weigela rosea and Weigela amnhiUa are the two first introduced. Some of the seedlings are: Isoline, flowers nearly white when they first open, but after- wards turn to a delicate pink; Van Hont- teii has the habit of amahiVvs, but flow- ers of the Rosea Deboisiana have buds of a dark crimson and very dark flowers, the lower lobe of which is marked with a yellow band. The foliage is yery ro- bust, of a fine dark green; bush a fine erect habit, and is a profuse bloomer. There are also several variegated-leaved varieties; one with greenish yellow leaves, another the leaves of which are of a clear cream-white. Weigela rosea is the popular variety, and caj^able of great improvement over the same as generally cultivated. This shrub is covered with a profusion of blossoms in June, pink changing to white. The bloom is so profuse that the leaves are nearly all hid from view. The shrub is of somewhat dwarf growth, growing about three feet in height, and may be trained to form a very ornamental shrub, and one to give a very much more satis- factory show than is too frequently the case. Procure a plant and train it to the tree form by rubbing out all growth from the bottom, except one main stem, for eight or ten inches; head it in and allow the top to form bushy and thick, and our word for it, you will be so much better satisfied with it, that you will hardly recognize it as the same thing as when grown as a bush. The head is formed by successive pinching in, after which the culture is no more difiieult than in the other way. The Japan Quince (Pyrus Jaj^onica) is another shrub, flowering somewhat earlier than the Weigela.well worthy of more general cultivation, as they offer us buds and flowers to weave in bouquets when flowers are somewhat scarce. There are white, red, double, and orange varieties, blossoming in early sjiring. The Japan Quince gives us beauty in the shining glossy green of its foliage after its flowers are gone; and then for awhile its fruit possesses an interest to the studiously inclined. This shrub is susceptible of the same improvement as the Weigela, and by careful training may be made an attractive ornament of the garden. — N. E. Homeslead. Adorn your homes with flowers. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 369 INDIAN AND GERMAN FOEESTS. With an extraordinary damp climate and plenty of barren soil in the north- ern parts of the island, we have left our woods very much to the care of nature, while we have fed our fires from our coal- fields and peat mosses, and imported the better part of our timber. It is true that some proprietors, more enlightened than their neighbors, have been borrow- ing ideas from systems practiced on the Continent, and introducing a certain method into their forest management. The superintendents of Crown domains — notably at "Windsor and in the New Forest — have been setting examples of advance in the same direction. But it was only as they became alive to the state of matters in India, that the gov- ernment took up forestry in earnest. The population of India dej^ends on its forests almost entirely, and as these cov- er an enormous area, it seemed never to have occurred to any one that their resources could be anything but inex- haustible. However, the alarm at last was given, and that illusion was sud- denly dispelled. It was found that the most wanton waste had made ravages which could hardly be repaired in gen- erations : the people hacked timber when they wanted it, without any regard to housing the supply; devastation by fires was frequent; there were forest noma- dic tribes who kept capriciously clear- ing fresh spaces by incendiarism when- ever it pleased them to change their dwelling-places; in short, destruction was proceeding apace, and the proper authorities did not interpose a mo- ment too soon. Fortunately, when they did interpose, they interposed to some purpose, and a regular for- est staff has been established, direct- ed by eminently capable men. It was necessary, however, to educate the men who were to be in charge. In India forestry was an unknown art, and even in this country it had been very much neglected. But in France considerable attention had always been paid to it, while in northern Germany it has been cultivated as a science. Accordingly young men destined for the Indian for- est service have been sent to educate themselves in the German forest schools, for in Germany precei)t and practice go hand in hand; while more experienced ofiicials have gone thither to make their observations and to jDick up what hints they can to carry back for application in India. It is to this policy that we owe the reports of Captain Walker, Depu- ty Conservator of the Madras Forests, which have been lately published. His rej)orts are the fruits of a forest tour un- dertaken in the course of last summer, which extended over four months and a half, and carried him through forests in Hanover, Prussia, Saxony, Bavaria, Austria, and Baden. We may observe by the way that they are supplemented by a paper by Dr. Brandis, offering val- uable suggestions on the professional studies of forest officers on leave. We imagine few people have form- ed a conception of the extent of the re- mains of a vast forest that once stretch- ed itself all over Germany. In Hanover alone, Captain Walker tells us, there are 900,000 acres of wood under State man- agement; while nearly a fourth part of the area of Prussia is in forest, although the half of that is in private hands. As is well known, the forest administration in particular districts has long been fa- mous, especially in Thuringia and the Hartz mountains. In North Germany generally the responsibilities are allot- ted in districts among a carefully organ- ized body of officials, presided over by a Forstdirektor, who fills the post of com- mander-in-chief. The appointments are 370 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTUKIST. fairly remunerated as far as remunera- tion goes in Germany; and they are so eagerly sought after that candidates will remain on their probation for years at their own cost, or with moderate and pre- carious pay, in the hope of being regu- larly enrolled in the corps at last. In Austria things are on somewhat a dif- ferent footing. The Austrian forests are magnificent — so magnificent, indeed, that the people have been in the way of taking liberties with them, just like our own Indian subjects, and the forest management has been neglected. Now they have changed all that, and the State is doing its best to repair the con- sequences of its negligence. But as yet the Austrian forest service is compara- tively in its infancy, and the pay is very indiiferent. We may give an idea of what the system is when fairly organized, by taking Hanover as an illustration. In Hanover the staff consists of the for- est director and over-forest master; 20 forest masters in charge of divisions, who constitute a council of management; 112 over-foresters in charge of districts; 403 assistant foresters; 343 under-forest- ers, besides occasional laborers, who are employed as their services are want- ed. A check is established on the fin- ances by appointing a cash-keeper to each district; the gross income is esti- mated approximately at £300,000, while the expenditure amounts to £128,000. Even in North Germany it is only com- paratively recently that many of the for- ests have been worked to the best ad- vantage. They had been hampered with troublesome rights of common and servitudes, which gave communities and private persons a claim to take liberties with the wood, while much damage was done by exercising the rights of grazing out of place and season. It has been the more recent policy of the govern- ment to buy up all these rights, dealing very libendly with the people, and Cap- tain "Widker points out that measures of this kind are absolutely necessary in India. But even after acquiring these rights the government do all in their power to make the forest lands general- ly useful. Where the growth of the trees places them beyond the reach of injury, cattle are freely admitted, and in all cases where it is practicable the woods are thrown open for recreation. As for the foresters, even in the lower ranks, they are highly educated in their special line. They are not only at home in the more immediately practical branches, but they understand all about diseases and insect plagues and the remedies for them. Of merely mechanical woodcraft they are masters. In the Black Forest esj)ecially, Captain Walker, with all his Indian experience, marveled at the ad- roitness with which they manage to bring down great trees, so that in their fall they should not injure the saplings. Then they have certain tools in use, sim- ple enough in appearance, but which are exceedingly useful in their hands, and which might be adopted with ad- vantage in England or India. The krempe, for instance, something be- tween an adze and a pickaxe, is one, which lays fast hold of the trunks and exerts an extraordinary leverage ; and by the aid of the krempe and a rope or two Captain Walker has seen half-a-dozen men do such work as the}' use elephants for in India. We shall not trouble our readers with the valuable techaiical information Cap- tain Walker collected as to methods of rotation, clearing, cutting, sowing, plant- ing out, etc. What is of more general interest is his account of his visit to the Prince Furstenberg'sforestatRippoldau in the Grand Duchy of Baden. The forest is opened up in all directions by a regular system of roads arranged in- THE CAXIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. 371 to two classes. The first of these is twice the width of the other and careful- ly constructed with solid masonry, wood- en bridges, etc. But most curious are the "Riesen," or slips, down which the timber is shot to the streams, and the artificial modes of floating the intermi- nable rafts. The slips at Kippoldau are about six feet wide, and pieces of wood or rollers are placed along them at in- tex'vals of a couple of feet. The trough is formed of smooth timber stripped of its bark, so that there shall be little fric- tion on the stems as they glide down it. Where the curve is too sharp) the slip is disposed at something approaching a right angle ; and the trunk which has been shot so far is turned by means of the krempe, and then launched forward on a fresh start. Three hundred stems can be sent down one of these slips in a single day. As for the mode of float- ing the timber, that must be seen to be believed, as Captain Walker remarks. The little mountain stream is cleared of its bowlders, and its bed prepared with pieces of cross-timber as the "Riesen" are. The water is dammed back in res- ervoirs, and, strange to say, the floating takes place when the stream is unusual- ly low. The floss or float consists of stems of full-grown trees loosely knotted together at the ends by ropes of bark, and the length of the whole float is fre- quently 2,000 feet. "My first im- pression," Captain Walker remarks, ' ' when I saw the floats .... lying zig- zag in the bed of the mountain stream, was that it was simply impossible that they could ever be floated, still less steer- ed down the stream with all its wind- ings, and over the locks and rocks which occurred pretty frequently." The front consists of two or three stems abreast, with a prow formed like the bow of a whale-boat. "When all is ready, the water from above is let loose, and the raft or rafts which have hitherto been lying in the bed of the stream, which has probably not more than a foot of wa- ter in it, begin to float a little^ but are not let go until about two-thirds of the water has passed AVhen let go it is exceedingly curious to see the for- ward part dart off at the rate of five or six miles an hour, and the several pieces or links which have been lying zigzag and more or less high and dry, gradually uncoil themselves and follow in its wake, till the whole dashes along apparently uncontrolled." Strange to say, sometimes when the decline is steep, the raft travels faster than the water, but if the stojDpages are not too fre- quent, it can do its fifty miles a day. When it arrives at the Kinzig it is bro- ken up and formed into those large rafts which are familiar to all travelers on the Rhine. In short, these reports of Cap- tain Walker's will be found to combine entertainment with instruction, and had we more space to devote to them, we should invite our readers to accompany him on his excursions to the Scotch and Enf?lish forests. — Pall Mall Gazette. Asparagus and Manuke. — I have tried all kinds of manure for Asparagus plants, and all sorts of treatment. Nothing, however, produced such a rank and thick growth as fresh cow ma- nure. We have often used horse ma- nure well rotted, and salt, and various other applications. But the pure cow manure, spread over the bed about three inches thick, proved tlie best. The year before the last we had the most wonderful growth, and, as we believe, entirely from this cause. We always leave our stalks until they are about one foot high before cutting them; we fancy they are much better, and we know we get three times as much veget- able food fit to eat. — Exchange. 372 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. The Mode of Life of Roots. — As the duties of the roots differ in the various l^lants, so do their modes of life vary. Some live wholly in the water, others (and these by far the greater number) live in the obscurity of the soil, while others, again, fasten upon the trunks and branches of plants larger than them- selves. In the shajje of the roots we find a corresponding diversit3^ Some are short and thick-set, as witness those of the beet and radish, from which fine, thread-like rootlets shoot out, in order to feed the main root; others are long and slender; some creep along near the surface of the ground, while others, again, dive deep down into the earth, as though seeking to penetrate its inner- most secrets. But all, great and small, thick-set and slender, are provided with a wonderful amount of energy and per- severance, never failing, if unmolested, to perform the work allotted them with no small degree of intelligence. Let us here give you an instance of this intelligence, which we learned but a few days since, from the lips of an eye- witness. Most of our readers have doubtless seen descriptions of that beautiful or- chid of the Isthmus of Panama, the Es- piritu Santo, or Flower of the Holy Ghost, so called because of the wonder- ful representation of a dove, with bow- ed head and folded wings, which forms the centre of the pulpit-like flower. For some years the natives, regarding the plant with superstitious reverence, care- fully concealed the knowledge of its ex- istence from all foreigners; but at length it was discovered, and several bulbs were carried into the city of Panama, where they were planted in boxes, and assid- uously nursed, but without success. The bulbs withered, and dried, and were at last thrown away in despair — a de- spair that proved their salvation. Cast out upon a heap of rubbish and stones, the bulbs, no longer buried in the earth by an ignorant master, exulted in their freedom, and striking down their roots through the stones, came back to life and vigor. Those bulbs knew (what their captor did not) that if buried, or even half -hnried, in the earth, they must die; but note with what cogence and intelligence they seized upon the chance of life the moment it was acci- dentally thrown in their way! They knew, as the " lord of creation " did not, that their long, slender rootlets alone could be sunken into the earth. Says my informant, a scientific gentleman: " The bulb should be supported, above ground, by stones, until the roots have taken sufficient hold to steady it. This is the natural condition of the Espiritu Santo, and only thus will it flourish." — Helen Harcourl in To-Day. Foliage Plants. — A great mistake is made by many in the arrangement of the garden, in not giving sufiicient attention to foliage plants. A bed of flowers may be ever so lich, and the display of col- ors may be dazzling, but if there is no frame-work of living g»een, the effect on the eye is rather painful than otherwise. The fault of many gardens is, too much glare. Masses of brilliant flowers — red, yellow, white and scarlet — are grouj^ed together, until the garden is all aflame with radiant colors, and its very gor- geousness is oppressive. How refreshing it is to the eye to have here and there a clump of rich, dark-green foliage to rest on! While the gaudy hues of the flowers have a ten- dency to aggravate the heat of the sum- mer day, the living green of the foliage is suggestive of cool, refreshing shade. In every flower garden there should be borders of emerald turf as a frame-work THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 178 to the beds, and to occupy space not al- lotted to the flowers. Foliage plants can be used with fine efl'ect interspersed with the flowers, and in every garden green should be the predominant color, or ground, while the flowers form the embroidery. In the arrangement of flowers in vases and baskets the same order should pre- vail. A bouquet without a background of cedar, arborvitfe, or some other ever- green, is never complete, and is all the more perfect if ferns and grasses are in- terspersed.— Ex. UPON THE TERM "NATUE.Uj." AS APPLIED TO LANDSCAPE. BY E. J. HOOPEK. It is well for us to consider certain general laws by which Nature is gov- erned in the grouping of plants, and the develojDment of their forms; and it is highly imj)ortant for us to endeavor to understand these laws. It is often denied that one scene is any more nat- ural than another, if they are each the growth of Nature. An orchard, say these objectors, is just as natural as a wild forest, and a garden of tulips as natural as a tract of wild pasture, thick- ly overgrown Avith indigenous herbs, flowers, and shrubbery. Though, I think, it can not be denied that one is the production of Nature as well as the other, yet the former deviates more widely from the process, the direction and the forms of vegetation which Nat- ure causes to apiDear on the face of the earth, when she is left to her own spon- taneous efforts. I will here speak of the importance of imitating the modus oioerandi of Nat- ure, when developing landscapes and laying out pleasure-grounds, with the design of obtaining from them the great- VoL. III.- 48. est amount of enjoyment both to the eye and ear. It has been denied by some, much to my surprise, that the pursuit of this course will insure a more favor- able result than by following one that is strictly artificial, as in the Dutch gar- den, or geometric style. I will fi-eely admit that in horticultural operations, as in the planting of nurseries, arborc- tums, and beds for florists' flowers, any attempt to imitate Natui-e would be as absurd as to attempt it in a corn-field or in the kitchen garden. The objectors remark that the tangled wilderness is far from agreeable, either as a place for re- creation or as a scene for the entertain- ment of the eye; that it is destitute both of beauty and comfort, and that we al- ways take more pleasure in a garden that is well kept, than in one that is overgrown with weeds. These objec- tions are based on a misconception of the true meaning of the natural as dis- tinguished from the artificial in land- scape. There is a vagueness in the sig- nificance of the terms which it is rather difficult to clear up. I am dsiposed to aj^ply the term natiu'al to all scenes in which art has wrought in harmony with Nature; and I believe it will be found that in all old settlements, a pleasure- ground that extends beyond the space of an acre will afibrd satisfaction to the visitor in proportion as it is made to re- semble the work of Nature, without her defects. In the close vicinity of our dwelling- houses it is useless to attem^jt an imita- tion of Nature in the embellishment of the iuclosures. Neatness, beauty, and convenience are to be regarded above all other considerations. But in more extensive tracts, which are designed for rural recreation, the more nearly we can imitate the ways of Nature, consistently with the attainment of other needful purposes, the more satisfaction shall we J74 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. derive. There is an air of freedom and seclusion about a place that seems en- tirely inartificial, that fills the soul with the most agreeable emotions. We feel secure from interruption, and a pleas- ing sense of our right to ramble and loiter there. The first highly-wrought fence, or other artificial structure, im- mediately suggests the idea that we may be trespassing, and that we may meet some one who, as guardian or pro- prietor, may dispute our right to enter uj)on his grounds. It does not follow that there is anything like envy com- bined with this feeling ; but every ob- ject that is palpably artificial produces a sense of constraint, and damps the poetic emotions of solitude. Though the proprietor of a place may feel dis- l^osed to disregard these influences on the minds of strangers, I am confident that, in the same proj)ortion as, on any account, it would fail in exciting agree- able emotions in the minds of others, it would also fail in yielding pleasure to him and his family. Though complete and uninterrupted solitude would be hardly preferable to death, yet every man of reflective mind delights in occasional retirement. He loves to go out so far in the fields and woods that he may not be liable to inter- ruption; and he feels this charming se- clusion most powerfully in scenes of native wildness, or in those in which the planter or landscape gardener has designedly or otherwise imitated the spontaneous ways of Nature. How much I experienced these feelings when last summer I visited that wild and ro- mantic estate — Napa Soda Springs — near the city of Napa, covered with the finest Oaks and a variety of other beau- tiful forest-trees, shruljs, and wild flow- ers of every hue, through the natural grounds of which long winding walks, i-ustic bridges, and seats, and stone steps, led in every direction to water- falls, towering cliffs, shaded recesses, Fern Avilderuesses, and other objects of rural, picturesque, and natural attrac- tiveness. No sooner does the visitor of such charming scenes perceive this ap- parently careless irregularity, unmixed with the too elaborate, costly works of art, than he feels he is alone, as I did there. If, at the same time, as I ex- perienced on these premises, the solitary birds of the wilderness are seen and heard around him, the emotion of soli- tude is the more vividly impressed on the mind. Indeed, this feeling is sel- dom complete, until he hears those wild notes from creatures that cautiously avoid the busy town and its vicinity. It seems to me, therefore, an impor- tant principle in the art of creating landscape, that there should be present in it everything agreeable that is found in a wildwood, and that everything prominently artificial should be exclud- ed that would disturb those poetic feel- ings which are awakened by the real scenes of Nature. (Conclusion next mouth.) THE PAELOE GAEDEN. [see illustration, feontispiece.] It is not always easy to cultivate or- namental plants in an inhabited room; still, far from complaining of this diffi- culty, we should, on the contrary, con- gratulate ourselves, for is it not a gi'eat pleasure to attempt a difficult thing and succeed in doing it? We would not, however, have this remark discourage the beginner; very limited ajipliances and means, with the ordinary experien- ces gained in a suii")risingly short space of time, will afford much of gratification and of pleasure. The extent to which parlor-gardening can be carried on, the kinds and varieties of plants it may em- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 37^ brace, the time of the year in which we can occupy ourselves in it with the most pleasure and success; all this varies ac- cording to the space we may have at our disposal, and the fitness of the sit- uation for the experiments. We shall take into consideration all these things, as they present themselves in the natu- ral course of ordinary life. Wafej-ivg. — Plants confined within our dwellings require watering, some rarely and sparingly, others often and profusely; but it should always be with water of the same temperalure as that of the eartk in which they are placed. This is a very important point, and one upon which most people who have flow- ers in pots in their chambers are perfect- ly ignorant. You, ladies, do yourselves like a comfortable degree of warmth; so, also, do your plants. Yet mark what frequently happens. Some beautiful Ca- mellia is your delight, and, to judge by the profusion of buds with which it is loaded, it promises a splendid bloom in the early months of the year. You have, in the meantime, been enjoined not to fail to water it when required, and this injunction you punctually ful- fill. But in what way? You go to the sideboard for the water-jug; you find it empty; you at once have it replenished from the tap or the pump, the water of which is of an exceedingly low temper- ature, and this you pour upon the roots of your favorite Camellia ! Suppose some one were to pour icy water upon your feet, would not the shock make you cry out? Your Camellia, although silent, does not sufler less. Its sap, that was in full activity, slackens — stops— and that it may begin to flow again, all the buds drop one after anoth- er; not a single one can bloom ! The best thing to be done is to place in the chamber a vessel containing the quanti- ty of water necessary to water the plants next morning. This water and the earth in the pots will then become of the same temperature. [ To bo continued.] C^atelal ^oftfono. We have battled through another year, and the present number closes the third volume of the " California Horti- culturist AND Floral Magazine," which our spirited publishers have embellish- ed with many excellent illustrations. In reviewing the labors of the past twelve months, we feel sincerely thank- ful to our many contributors for the very many excellent articles which have appeared in our periodical. To our numerous subscribers we beg to express our gratitude for their sup- port, and to assure them it will be our endeavor to render the ensuing numbers additionally interesting and instructive; and from the abundant promises of val- uable assistance which we have received from many able practical men, we feel confident that our magazine will, by a large accession to our original articles, be still more acceptable in the future to our readers. Our programme for the ensuing vol- ume will comprise the important and varied subjects of Irrigation, Forest and Tree Culture, Floriculture, Horticulture fii all its branches; the Botany of the Pacific Coast,with original notes of some of the enterprising and persevering ex- plorers of the present day; papers on indigenous Ferns and Orchids, and on the Alga3 of this coast; while our col- umns will be open to occasional contri- butions and selected articles on various kindred subjects: and by exercising all due care in the selection and revision of whatever appears in our numbers, we hope to render our magazine so far ac- ceptable to our numerous readers as ift ft, ,1 ^w« A ^ 376 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. to insm-e us the much - extended sui?- port -which a publication of this kind requires. KEPORTS OF SOCIETIES. JIepoet of the Secret.\rt of the Bay District Hokticultukal Society. — Gentlemen: — In submitting this Thii'd Annual Report to you, I can not do otherwise than express a feeling of re- gret that our Society is moving so slowly in accomplishing its mission ; unfor- tunately its financial condition is not of a very encouraging nature. The in- terest taken in the Society by the public, is not, I am sorry to sa}', equal to the severe task of fostering and developing the horticultural and floricultural prod- ucts which the State of California is capable of producing. It can not be denied that a Horticul- tui-al Society is a most im])ortant insti- tution in a new country, and particular- ly so whore the resources are unlimited. The usefulness of such a Society con- sists not only in the discussion of sub- jects pertaining to Horticulture — in pointing out what our State might pro- duce, and in exhibiting the products of our soil under the most favorable cir- cumstances to the public— but to be of real service to our State, and to the people who occupy its lands, the dis- cussions and deliberations of practical men should be made public by its means and disseminated throughout the rural districts. The trees, shrubs, and plants which, after mature deliberation, are considered of a useful as well as ornamental character, and adapted to our soil and climate, should be intro- duced by the Society, and acclimatized, in order that their fitness and usefulness may be practically demonstrated at its exhibitions, with the resultant success in all its vai-iations brought about by the influences of soil, climate, and dier conditions. This, I am well aware, can nc be done with the resources at your om- mand at the present time, which ire barely sufficient to cover the expend of room-rent, gas, and petty incidemls. To enable you, therefore, to make yur- selves more useful to the public, ou must increase your revenues, whici at present can only be done by achng regular members. It will bo strar'e, indeed, if the population of Calif oiia can not or will not sustain an hii- tution of this kind, and swell flie lis- of . its regular members to a number af- ficient to accomjdish your purpose. It is my opinion, that a sufficiently stnig effort to do this has not yet been mae. I would also call your attention to tAt portion of your Constitution and ^- Laws, which grants life-membership n payment of twenty-five dollai*s. Tis is too small an amount compared wh the requirements of other less importat and less useful societies. True, that during the past year a cUh of men have been admitted as memb<.s of this Society, of which we may well ^ proud; but there arc hundreds morej believe, who would help yoUl aloif financially and practically, if this ai was solicited in a proper way. It is the opinion of horticulturists i this State, that an Experimental G den shouhl be estiiblished, for the pi pose of introducing new and desiral' trees, plants, etc. Such a garden mig: bo properly conducted under your s supervision. And if a suitable approp ation were made by the State for tb: purpose, an immense benetit might I derived from it. The subject of ft)rest culture has bee thoroughly discussed during the las- two years, and our scientific men ai' unanimuus as to the many benefit fei!^^ ! ■ ■ ■ '^ ten!,taiaort they so richly deserve for their in- dustry and perseverance in importing for the market of California the rich variety of new and rare plants, etc. , etc., which are detailed in their lists, at such moderate prices. OUE EXCHANGE TABLE. The HorlicuUiirid. — A journal of rural life, etc. , published by Henry T. Wil- liams, 5 Bcekman Street, New York, $2.50 per annum — a monthly magazine, replete with vah^able information. The Gardener's Monthly, price $2 per annum; published by Chas. H. Marot, 814 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, and edited by Thos. Meehan — a verj' ex- cellent monthly. The Ladies' Floral Cabinet, monthly, by Henry T. Williams, New York. Very good and useful; price 75 cents per annum. The California Farmer, by Warren & Co., San Francisco, Cal., $4 per annum. FAVOES KECEIVED. We have to acknowledge the receipt of the Annual Report, for 1873, of the Hon. Frederick Watts, Commissioner of Agriculture at Washington. We are indebted to E. W. Bruswell, Esq., Treasurer and Corresponding Sec- retary of the Massachusetts Horticul- tural Society, for a catalogue of the library of that institution, copious, and comprising many valuable works. The Ovebland Moxthlt. — The De- cember number of this excellent month- ly is, by courtesy of the publishers, be- fore us. It is, as usual, replete with interesting matter : ' ' Chips from an In- dian Workshop," "Life in Mazatlan," " New Zealand," "Parks and Pleasure Grounds," and " Seeking the Golden Fleece" — all well written and interest- ing articles. "Etc." and "Current Lit- erature" have all their usual discrim- inating character and piquancy. We are indebted to Messrs. Tucker ^ Son, of Albany, N. Y., for their Illus- trated Annual Register of Rural Affairs, for 1874. This is a very concise and useful publication, and contains much valuable information. Price 30 cents. WOKK FOR THE MONTH. BY F. A. MILLER. We have had sufficient rain to begin winter operations in our gardens, and the weather is now most favorable for outside work of all kinds. As a rule, I would advise all to prepare the ground early and to plant early, with the ex- ception of such plants and trees as are not quite hardy. Lawns and flower gardens ought to have a good top-dressing of manure, which may be allowed to remain on the lawn or grass-plat for a few weeks, in order that all the fertilizing ingredi- ents may be washed into the ground by the occasional rains, while the manure spread over the flower borders should be dug into the groiind by trenching the soil to the depth of twelve inches. Pansies. which have been sown in September or October may now be planted out where they are desired; >**■ the soil for them should be particularly enriched and well pre^jared. Our win- ter season is the season for Pansies, Violets, Daisies, Primulas, Aubrietias, and all other hardy border-plants, and they will do better if they are trans- planted at this time. If any of the Gladiolus and Dahlia 380 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. roots still reuuiin in the ground, tliey should bo taken up at once and stored away in a dry, airy place. Gladioli which were planted in September will flower now and during the coming month. We have a fine lot in full bloom out-of- doors at present, which were planted in September; and as bright flowers are now becoming scarce, they help us out to a great extent. I can say the same of Lilium auratums, which are exceed- ingly well adapted for winter flowering out-of-doors, if they are jDlanted in Au- gust and September in some protected place. Those who have not already planted the Hyacynth, Narcissus, Crocus, etc., should not delay to do so, both for the garden and the house. Tulips, I am satisfied, ought to be jolanted early to do well in California. Planting late in the season is the cause of frequent fail- ures. All of the bulbs and roots named will do best in a warm and sunny ex- posure, protected from strong winds. This month is still a favorable time to plant your Rose-cuttings, both in frames and in the open ground. If planted in frames, a moderate bottom heat should bo provided; if planted in the open ground, the cuttings ought to be at least four inches long, and of a strong healthy wood. Prepare the ground well and deei^ly before planting, and if too heavy, add some sand. Some of our deciduous shrubs grow well from cut- tings made in the same way, and the wood is now in a proper condition for ^ that purpose. There is no necessity for planting the cuttings immediately, if not convenient; they may l)e tied up and kept in a shady place, and partly covered up with soil. Some Tea and Bengal Roses, which make very little new wood in comparison with the more robust-growing Perpetuals and Bour- bons, would be better grown in frames, as short cuttings of three or four eyes only are required under this method. The plants in the greenhouse and conservatory must now be kept rather dry, as all the soft-wood and succulent varieties are apt to damp off during our cool nights, particularly in wet weather. Tender plants in our greenhouses and conservatories sufier not so much from the efiect of cold as from dampness, and to have the Begonia, Coleus, Maranta, and other tender ornamental foliage plants, do well during our winter months, some artificial warmth should be provided. The various kinds of ap- paratus in use for heating, in the East and in Europe, are too expensive for us. We require some mode which will give a moderate amount of wai-mth during the nights and the cold rainy daj^s, which will disperse and rarify some of the moisture which penetrates our green- houses and does so much mischief. The thermometer rarely falls below 45 or 50; and I think that, with a very simple heating apparatus, we may be able to keep above 55. At our nurseries we are now introducing a very simple and cheap apparatus, which I think will an- swer the purpose. Unless bottom heat (which can be made of fresh manure and tan-bark) can be applied, propagating, at this time, can not be safely undertaken; and at the same time it is a well-established fact, that greenhouse plants in general should be propagated in October, No- vember, and December. In fact, these three months answer very well for the propagation of hardy plants also. Ar- tificial heat is therefore most desirable for such work. The want of flowers is particularly felt during our winter months, and with a small degree of warmth, our plants in the greenhouses and conservatories may be kept in full bloom throughout the THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 381 winter. Under all circumstances the houses should be well ventilated when the weather permits it. Unless plants can be kej^t in a grow- ing condition by artificial heat, they will do much better in small pots. I would therefore caution against the over-pot- ting of plants. Last winter we kept tender foliage plants in a remarkably good condition in three-inch pots, while those in large pots suffered most. The necessity for thorough drainage at the bottom of the pots and boxes is imperative, and should be looked after at once. A good effect is also produced by the application of warm water, when- ever the plants actually need moisture. KEPORT ON THE FRUIT AND VEGE- TABLE MARKET. BX E. a. HOOPER. The extension of those three great improvements — Railways, Telegraphs, and Fiiiit-growing — make notable the last thirty years as a remarkable and wonderful era in the progress of man. The benefits conferred by the extensive cultivation of fruit - trees are almost equal in importance with those of the first two combined. Hardly anything has occurred in the history of man which can compare with the extent of fruit gardens and orchards which have been, and still are being, set out year by year. All the nurseries in every part of the world are annually pouring forth their millions of trees into every coun- try, and yet the demand for them fully equals the supply. There is a reason for all this. One is the discovered value of fine fruit, and the other is the loss of myriads of young trees by bad management and the want of care in defending them from the damage of Vol. III.-49. cattle, etc. On these two points I pro- jDOse to offer a few remarks. First, on the value of fruit : On this subject but few words will be needed, for the whole community are rapidly discovering that a few acres of orchard — particularly if convenient to a mar- ket— often yield more profit than all the rest of a large farm, and that one to three hundred dollars per acre annu- ally is no unusual return, under good management ; while, in rare cases, a single tree will nearly pay for an acre of ground by the product of one season only. Besides this, not a few are learn- ing that a good supply for family use saves a great many hard-earned dollars which otherwise are yearly paid to the miller and butcher, or what is the sam6 thing, an equal amount forwarded to market. The use of apples alone, where a constant supply may be had for baking, stewing, for puddings and for pies, saves to many families at least a hundred dollars annually; and by using rich, high-flavored sorts, the use of hundreds of jDounds of sugar is ol> viated, otherwise required for sweeten- ing and supplying the requisite flavor. But this is so well understood, that I need not dwell upon the sul)ject any longer, except merely to allude to the pleasure and satisfaction which it must afford everyone to be furnished with a succession of delicious fruits, which our California affords during the whole of the year, commencing with Straw- berries for six to eight months at least, and including Cherries, Currants, Rasp- berries, Blackberries, Apricots, Nectar- ines, Pears, Plums, Peaches, Apples, and Grapes, some of which may, with care, be had for use during every day df the year. In relation to management a great deal may be profitably said . The ground for every orchard and fruit garden, in 382 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. the first place, should be properly en- riched, if it is not naturally as produc- tive as is common in our State; sec- ondly, the trees should be well set out; and thirdly, and most important of all, good and constant cultivation must bo given. There is no "royal road" to the raising of good fruit; and an or- chard requires attention and labor quite as much as a field of corn or potatoes. Here is the great and fatal error of a large portion who attempt the culti- vation of fruit : 1st. Those who have, procured their trees destroy them at once by drying them in the sun or wind, or freezing them in the cold, before set- ting out. 2d. Those who destroy them by crowding the roots into small holes cut out of a sod, where, if they live, they maintain a stunted and feeble ex- istence, like the half-starved cattle of a neglectful farmer. 3d. Others set them out well, and then consider their labors as having closed. They are subsequent- ly suffered to become choked with grass, weeds, or crops of grain. Some live and linger, others die under the hard- ship, or else are demolished by cat- tle, or are broken down or their bark wounded by the team which cultivates the ground. All low hoed crops are best for young orchards, such as Beans, Tur- nips, Field-beets, and Carrots. Sown grain crops are bad, and meadows still worse. But even hoed crops operate in some degree as weeds, and hence the most successful orchardists keep the whole surface in clean, mellow cultiva- tion, without any crop whatever, and find it most profitable. The only ex- ception they make is in planting a por- ^ tion of the space in very young or- chards, several feet distant from each tree. Mulching, in connection with a mel- low surface, will, in addition to proper ii-rigation, bo a great assistance in long droughts. This ls nothing more than covering the ground about the tree with old straw, coarse barn-yard litter, leaves from the woods, saw-dust, tan, or other material tending to retain the moistiu'o of the soil, which is otherwise constant- ly escaping from the earth below. It is usually applied much too thinly, and in much too small a circle about the tree. We all know the roots extend to a great distance. It is better to leave a small space uncovered immediately about the trunk, otherwise mice or in- sects may harbor under it and eat or injure the bark. In laying out ground for transplanting it is absolutely necessary to know the dis- tances for each sort. If too remote from each other, a waste of land is the result; if too near, they crowd each other (rather common in California), and pre- vent the growth and ripening of the fruit to the best advantage. The usual distance for Apples in this region is about twenty-five to thirty-three feet; Pears, fifteen to eighteen feet; Peaches, twelve to fifteen feet; Cherries, fifteen feet; Plums, fifteen feet; Apricots, eight- een feet; Quinces, eight feet; Grapes, eight feet; Gooseberries and Currants, four to five feet; Raspberries and Black- berries, three to four feet. But it is time to refer to the condi- tion of our markets. The efi"ects of winter can now be plainly traced on the fruit stalls. Most of the summer fruits have disappeared, and what remain are of course of poor quality, and find but slow sale at low prices. About the 27th of October there arrived a large shipment of Oranges from Tahiti, commanding ready sale at 75 cents to $1 per dozen. There were but few changes in the prices of vegetables up to the last of October, some of which begin to show the eflects of frosty nights. Tomatoes were still tolerably THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 383 abundant, and of fair quality; but the supply of Green Corn, Summer Squash, and Cucumbers was nearly at an diid. String Beans, Green Peas, and Okra were very scarce and higher. Many of the Strawberry patches were visited by frosts, and the supply of fruit was veiy light. The few coming for- ward, however, met with ready sale at high prices. Peaches were out of mar- ket, and Plums were very scarce; Ap- ples and Pears plentiful at former rates. Grapes were still abundant, but a large portion of them had been frosted and were of inferior quality. The market was well supplied with Malaga and Sicily Lemons, and a few from Los An- geles were received by each steamer. Bananas were quoted at 50 to 75 cts. per dozen; Pomegranates, $1 per doz- en; Smyrna Figs, 35 cts. per dozen; Apples, by the box delivered, 75 cts. to $1; Pears, $1 to $2. There was no change in the prices of food about the 20th of November. Of Grapes, at that time, IVIission was still quoted at 8c. per pound; Black Ham- burg and Muscat, each 12^c; Tokay, 15c; and Black Morocco, 15 to 25c. The Rose of Peru variety became then out of season. A few boxes of "White Napoleon made their appearance occa- sionally, and sold readily at 15c. per pound; Blue Plums, 20c; Pears, Ap- ples, Oranges, Limes, and Lemons con- tinued at the then last week's prices. The contest between the Italian garden- ers and the Board of Supervisors being at an end, the market resumed its for- mer equilibrium. We quote Cabbage Sprouts at 12^c; Asparagus, 50c; Dried Okra, 50c; Red Pepper, 50c; Green Pepper, of which there are three kinds in the market, 15 @ 25c. per pound; Red Cabbage, 10@l5c. each; Carrots, 20c. per dozen bunches; Green Corn, 50e. per dozen ears; Black Radish, 20c. per dozen bunches: Kale, 50c. per doz- en; Celery, 10c. per head. On the 21st of November the supply of summer fruits was nearly out. The Italian gardeners, after resuming their occupation of Sansome Street, were, by the trial of a case in law against them, compelled to vacate that location. During the late strike it trans- pired that, notwithstanding the injury done to housekeej)ors through the high prices they were compelled to joay gen- erally for vegetables, occasioned by the inadeqiiacy of the supj^ly from first hands, the gardeners themselves were the principal sufferers. The sales of vegetables by the Italian gardeners from their wagons are computed at $3,000 per day, making the aggregate loss du- ring the period of suspension from $18,000 to $20,000. The stock of veg- etables in first hands accumulated so much during that time that an over- abundance glutted the market. The larger Greens, such as Cabbage and Cauliflower, rotted for want of pur- chasers at almost any price. Notwith- standing the existence of such a state of things among the gardeners them- selves, retail green-grocers succeeded pretty well in keeping up the prices — that is, the decline from the retail fam- ine prices to those above quoted did not correspond with the decline of the wholesalers' quotations. These middle- men thus reaped abundant harvests, while the grower and consumer suffered. At the beginning of this month the vegetable gardeners commenced to re- turn to Sansome Street, and this move- ment has been tolerated by the city au- thorities at present. The feature in vegetables the latter part of last week was the appearance of new Potatoes from the Presidio, and they retailed at 12h cts. per pound. Asparagus was more plentiful, but still 384 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. sells at 50 cts. per pound. Green Peas and Tomatoes are abundant. Straw- berries have been scarce for a time, and liave brought fancy prices. What of those that came from Solano County? This is late for this fruit, certainly. The first Medlars have arrived, and arc retailing at 20@25c. per pound; Ba- nanas, 50@75c. per pound; Pomegran- ates, $1 per dozen; Smyrna Figs, 35c. per pound; Apples, by the box deliver- ed, $1@1.75; Pears, $1^1.75. The stormy weather is now said by the retail dealers to be retarding gar- deners from bringing their produce to market, the roads leading to the city being in an almost impassable state. Artichokes are 75 cts. per pound, and Asparagus sells at the same figures. There are two varieties of Orange offer- ed, from Los Angeles, and the Lo- rado Orange from Mexico. The former variety is quoted at $1 per dozen, and the latter at 75 cts. Grapes are as fol- lows: Mission, 12^c; Muscat, 15c; To- kay, 15(0) 25c; and Black Hamburg, 25c. per pound. No Strawberries have been received during the past few days, and no more are expected until warm pleasant weath- er returns. The feature in the fruit market this week has been the arrival of the first of the new crop of Los An- geles Oranges, This shipment came three weeks earlier than the first last season, and are quite as ripe, though rather too sour to sell readily. Small consignments of Peaches continue to arrive from Solano County, but do not meet with ready sale. Otto of Roses. — The Attar or Otto of Eases, most precious of all perfumes, is made almost entirely among the Balkan mountains. There arc at least one hun- dred and fifty places where its pre])ara- tion is earned on, the most important of all being Kizanlick. The Roses are planted in rows, like vines. The flow- ers are gathered in May, and Avith the green calyx leaves attached, arc subject- ed to distillation. Five thousand pounds of Roses yield one pound of oil. Planting Slips. — The Gazette dcs Cam- pagncs recommends to dip the extremi- ties of the slip in collodion, containing twice as much cotton as the ordinary material used in photography. Let the first coat dry and then dip again. Af- ter planting the slip, the development of the roots will take place promptly. This method is said to be particularly effica- cious in woody slips, Geraniums, Fuch- sias, and similar plants. METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, Foe the Month Ending Nov. 30th, 1873. (PrciLired for The HoRTicirLTUETaT by Thos. Tfnnf.nt, Matlieniaticiil Infitrument .and ClirononiotfT-maker, No. 423 Wasliington Street, near the Post Office). baeomktee. Mean height at 9 a. m ."JO.lfi in. do 12 .M ;J0.16 do 3 p. M 3i).15 do 6 p. M 30.15 Greatpst height, on the ICth at 9 a. m 30.33 Least height, on the 14th at fi r. m .1(1.03 thkrmometkk. ( Wilh north exposure and free from rejlecled heal.) Bleau lieight at 0 A. M j^ M'^ do 12 M .5'.)-' do 3 r . ivi W do C P. Jt 54'-^ Greatest height, on the 9th at 12 m Ti-' Least height, on the 2Cth at 9 a. m 4(!''' SELF-REOISTEKINa THEHMOMETEE. Mean height during the night 48° Greiitest height, on night of Cth C4'^ Least height, on nights of 2d, 3d, 25th and 2Gth 43° •WINDS. North and north-west on 12 days; south and south-wcet on 5 days; east and north-east on 2 days; west ou 11 days. WE.VTHEE. Clear on 9 days; variable on 7 days; cloudy and foggy on 14 days. EAIN GAUGE. November 6th 0.14 inches. Gth. 13th. 21st. 2'.lth. 30th. 0.20 0.(17 O.OG O.Oli 0.78 Total 1.31 I Total rain of the season n\) to date 2.17 L 1 L 1 U M B L O O iM E R I A N U M THE AND FLORAL MAGAZINE. Vol. IV. JANUARY, 1874. No. 1. MORE VARIETY IN OUR FLOWER GARDENS. BY F. A. MIULEE. [Continued.] In mj last communication on this subject I enumerated certain trees and shrubs T\'hich we do not so frequently meet with as their merits entitle them to, and I will now say a few words in favor of flowering- plants, which ought to be more generally cultivated in our gar- dens. There is no doubt that Fuchsias and Pelargoniums will for the future be as popular with us as they have been in the past. They thrive admirably every- where, and under any kind of treat- ment. Here in San Francisco they flow- er freely, both in summer and winter, and give a most cheerful appearance to our gardens. It is not surprising, therefore, that they are cultivated so extensively. I would, however, sug- gest that some of the newer varieties should be introduced, and some of the older and less meritorious kinds be dis- carded. Such sorts as Smith's Ava- lanche, Brilliant, Duchesse de Gerol- stein, Extraordinary, General Grant, Lucre tia Borgia, Lizzie Haxson, Wave of Life, Tower of Loudon, Rappee, and Talma are really magnificent Fuchsias, and can now be recommended as adapt- ed to our soil and climate. They are far superior to most of the old sorts that have been introduced here during the past ten years. Of Roses we can not have too many; they will always form the chief attrac- tions in our gardens. However, there are many sorts cultivated which might be replaced by much better varieties of later introduction, and which can now be obtained of some of our larger nur- series. Some of the new Tea Roses are really excellent, and bloom freely throughout the winter season. The Pink is also one of those popular flowers which are always admired, and give general satisfaction. Our gardens contain some splendid varieties, better, perhaps, than I have seen anywhere else. The varieties of Verbenas generally cultivated are of poor quality, and I think that more attention should be paid to the introduction of better sorts. The large auricula - flowered varieties are of very excellent quality and habit, most of them deliciously fragrant, of brilliant colors, and with large yellow or white eyes. Some of our nursery- men keep on hand an assortment of the 10 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. best varieties, and every one has an op- portunity of obtaining them. They are required in every garden, and as they flower abundantly with us, both in sum- mer and winter, they should be consid- ered imjiortant features in the borders. There are from twenty to twenty-five new varieties introduced of late, every one of which is a gem of its kind. While Roses, Pinks, Pelargoniums, and Verbenas may form the leading fea- tures in our gardens, other plants are wanted to furnish contrast, variety, and completeness, without which our gar- dens can not give the recreation, enjoy- ment, and effect, for which they are created. The plants which are particularly wanting here are flowering bulbs and roots of all kinds, which now are con- sidered indispensable in the East and in Europe; and I would certainly urge their introduction into every garden, for several reasons. First of all, our climate is favorable to their growth; secondly, they can remain undisturbed in the ground for a number of years, (very few sorts excepted); thirdly, we can have most of them in* bloom in winter as well as in summer; and fourth- ly, their qualities are most desirable for beauty of flowers, fragrance, and pleas- ing effect. A few varieties of the Gladiolus we meet with here and there, mostly of the old scarlet sorts, which amount to very little, compared with the elegant spikes of exquisitely colored flowers produced by the newer varieties lately ofi'ered for sale. I plant some of them every month, and have the grand satis- faction of seeing them in bloom at all seasons of the year. The same method could be carried out in every garden with the same success, only on a smaller scale. From thirty to forty varieties can now be obtained at a small expense in this market. If three of these were planted cveiy month, their flowers would prove a continued ornament to the gar- den; and as bright flowers are generally very scarce during our winter months, they are x^articularly valuable then. As cut-flowers for vases and table bouquets, they are invaluable, as every bud will develop itself in perfection if placed in water. Hyacinths ought to be grown much more extensively, and I would recom- mend early planting — the roots to re- main in the ground undisturbed for sev- eral years. The Amarj'llis is a magnificent flow- ering bulb, and is rarely met with here. If grown in the garden, most of the va- rieties will flower abundantly. The Agapanthus umbeUatus, general- ly known as a greenhouse plant, ia perfectly hardy here — at least in San Francisco and surroundings — and in the cooler districts of California its roots would not suffer in winter, even if the foliage should pexish. Its charming clusters of blue flowers are very orna- mental and most useful for bouqueta No garden should be without it. The Dielijtra speGiahilis, ( Bleeding Heart) is another exquisite bulbous root, and well known, although but very few plants are found in California. It is perfectly hardy, and succeeds well in our soil and climate. Once estab- lished, it forms large clumps of roots, and produces a profusion of flowers during spring and early summer. Its graceful racemes of heart-shaped pink flowers are most pleasing ornaments. [ To be continued.] A Pretty Annual. — Though rarely met with in gardens, one of the most fragrant of annuals is the dwarf and curious Schizojjeialon Walkeri. When sown in spring it blooms in June or THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 11 July, and its flowers are deliciously scented, even more so than Mignonette; a few flowers in a tumbler of water be- ing sufficient to scent a room for several days. So says the Garden. COLORS IN PLANTING. In the modern American gardens, our latest and strongest aims now seem to be, to gain color, as well as beauty of forms in our plants. Subtropical gar- dening is exactly adaj^ted to our climate; our brilliant skies and glorious sunny weather give a possibility and appro- priateness to the use of high-colored foliage plants; and trees of rich hue be- come mammoth paintings on our lawns and in our flower gardens. In the Garden, a correspondent discussing this subject, says justly, garden scenery is brightened immensely by means of color. "The leaves of the new-born summer, the matured ones of autumn — how much they owe to delicate and multitu- dinous coloring! But for freshness of touch, that neither painting nor wood- coloring can reproduce, commend us to the bursting buds of April — the newly unrolled beauty of May leaves. Among these, what more beautiful than the Beech and the Purple-leaved Filbert? There are two more varieties of each, one larger and of more substance than the other. In fact, of the Beech there are many varieties, for the red rejDro- duces itself from seed, and in a batch of seedlings there are tints of many de- grees, ranging from dull greens to those of fiery glow. We have, however, nev- er yet seen a seedling to equal in brill- iancy the common variety, which is mostly increased by grafting it on the common Beech ; and another with larger leaves, that keeps its color later in au- tumn. But Pui-ple Filberts are easily multiplied by means of suckers — a mode of increase not always to be dejoendod updn in Purple Beeches on their own roots. Beeches seldom produce suckers, yet they occasionally throw little bunch- es from the surface roots, and I have seen these green on purple seedlings, and j)urple on grafted plants — rather a singular circumstance. The Filbert is also so fully purpled over and through, that we never remember to have seen it throw out a green sucker. It is most useful in shrubberies, contrasting ad- mirably with such plants as Lilacs, La- burnums, Guelder Roses, Deutzias, etc. It seems actvially to glow with the in- tensity of its coloring, and is to the fore and middle ground of shrubberies what the taller Beech is among other trees. The Beech has a soft fluffiness and semi-transparency about it that the Filbert, glorious as it is, lacks; and the richest coloring treat — a very feast of glowing magnificence — is spread around every far-reaching Purple Beech. One of the best modes of enjojdng it to the full is to put the trees between the be- holder and the sun, and look through the leaves toward him soon after he has risen, or a few hours before his setting. The purple is thus flooded with golden magnificence, and each leaf and branchlet is set off to admirable advantage. Purple Beeches are espe- cially rich as foreground to masses of green Oaks, Elms, or other deciduous trees; or set against Larches, Birches, or Limes, the light foliage of these or the flowers of Service-trees — wild Crabs, Pears,* Apples, etc. — give a deep tone to the glowing purple. Further, the young leaves especially contrast admi- rably with most conifers; though it must be admitted that the darker hues of the Purple Beech in autumn become too sombre accompaniments for most Pine-trees. The place for the Purple 12 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Beech is the background of shrubber- ies, home plantations, belts, the park, and oven the woods and forests; for the Purple Beech is not weakened by its color. It grows as fast, and forms tim- ber neither better nor worse than any other Beech, and assuredly its more general use would give a glow to forest sceneiy that would add much to its beauty, and to the breaking of its dead monotony of color as well as form. Clumps of Purple Beech here and there would change the face of our landscapes and render them more agree- able, without their being one whit less profitable. What with our want of di- rect sunshine, and our dripping clouds, and leaden skies, we have often a de- ficiency of cheering color, and there could hardly be an easier and cheaper method of supplying this want than the planting of our copses with groups of Purple-leaved Filberts, and our woods with Purple Beeches. — The Horticul- turist. New Shrubs. — The Dwarf Almond, Amygdalus nana, is a deciduous shrub of low growth, which, in the opinion of the florist and pomologist, should oft- ener find its way into ornamental shrub- beries. It is, however, one of the old-fashioned things which seem to be overlooked nowadays. M. Carriere has recently described ( Rev. Hort. 1872, 340) two new varieties, which he calls A. n. microflora and A. n. campanu- loicles. Amygdalus nana microflora is a branched bush with sub-erect ramifica- tions, having the leaves like those of the type, oblong lanceolate, and the flowers small, spreading, with narrow petals, often more numerous than usual, thus showing a tendency to duplication, of a lovely rose, each marked at the top, extei-iorly, with a deep spot. — 'The HorlicuUuri^l. LTLIUM BLOOMERIANUM. BY A. KELLOGG., M. D. We extract the following doecription of this Lily from the Proceedings of the California Academy of Sciences, of May 5th, 1873. The illustration accompany- ing this issue of the Horticultueist is a faithful representation of this flower: "Bulb purple, scales as in the origi- nal species, but bulb often compound, three to six inches in diameter. Stems one to five from a single or compound conglobate bulb; five to seven or eight feet high, sub- glabrous or slightly striguloid scabrulose above, more or less purplish tinged; flowering at the sum- mit only; three to eight blossoms on somewhat erect -spreading peduncles, thi-ee to six inches in length, bent down and shortly cuiwed at an abrupt angle beneath the flower, rarely bracted, ex- cept at the base. Leaves in whorls of five to ten, sessile, lanceolate, four to four and a half inches long, three- fourths to one inch in breadth, five- nerved, glabrous above, lamina densely sub -discoid scabrulose beneath, and scabrous along the mid-rib below, mar- gins waved scabrous, tips and upper margins usually pxu-plish tinged. Flow- ers stifiiy nodding. Campanulate, se- l^als many-crested at the base chiefly on the inner series, three outer sepals plain above, at length more revolute than the inner series, claw one-fifth to one-sixth the blade; inner sepals some- what broader, claws much shorter, one- ninth to one-tenth the blade, or longer than the mountain form; a double fold- ed medium elevation marks the face, and a truncate slightly grooved ridge along the back the entire length; base reflexed, the upper two -thirds gently recurved and aspiring aloft; all the se- pals at the margins above and apicu- late tips papillose. Color light orange THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. 13 ground, studded with ocellate blotches as if spattered with a dark purple pig- ment that had spread and tinged an aureola around the spots, the lower third or base being spotted with more niimer- ous darker or nearly black and clean well-defined dots; stamens shox-terthan the stjde; the curved ascending style slightly streaked with broken purple lines, apex triangular-clavate, stigma undivided. "There are two varieties of L. Bloom- erianum found growing together in the interior; one with bold, distinct, and well defined dark dots and spots, with long- er sepals more attenuated above; the other with ocellate or nij)ple-like blotch- es, being broader and of more continu- ously oblong form. The same distinc- tion into masculine and feminine form is observed among these maritime Lilies. The Island Lily has slightly scabrulose stems, and more discoidly- scabrulose under surface to the leaves, and are always scabrous along the mid-rib be- neath; whereas the Sierra Mountain Lilies are mostly glabrose — sometimes pubescent on both mid- rib and nerves, but never scabrous; they also sport more leaves in the whorls, etc.; these also are broader, hence the greater number of nerves; the numerous flow- ers are usually, if not always, alter- nately distributed on longer and more divaricate peduncles. The slightly pur- plish scales of those of the mountains become very remarkably purple on the islands. The enormous gregarious bulb, with its numerous stems, is a peculiar featui'e not observed in the thousands of specimens hitherto examined. "Found by Mr. W. G. W. Harford, of U. S. Coast Surve}-, on Santa Rosa Island, growing on the west side of deep sheltered ravines, trending nearly north and south, hence, only where they get the viorning sun; but are shad- ed from the ardent meridian or post- meridian heat, which burns the leaves and kills them out on opposite exposures of the same locality. They are found growing in loose gravelly detritus of sweet freshly made soils, on the high and dry well-drained or leaching bench- es, or steeper declivities, where, thus sheltered, they thrive the best, mid fogs and fierce cold winds. ' ' We find no evidence of any proper description of this Lily. The catalogue refers to scores of new Lilies from this coast, among which is L. Hiunboldiii It is proper to say, this has been kindly figured and sent to me by Max. Lichten, of Baden; but that drawing is certainly our L. loardalinum; so far as our trans- lation of the remarks of the author en- ables us to judge — together with the excellent painting — there can be no doubt as to the correctness of this con- clusion. " ♦ New Weeping Teee Fern. — This is one of the most beautiful of all Tree Ferns. It is a native of South Africa — is rather difficult to import in good condition, as the trunks have to be brought some hun- dreds of miles down the country before they are shipped, and frequently suffer on the journey. In habit it is perhaps the most graceful of all Tree Ferns, its ample light-green feathery fronds sweeping elegantly downwards. It may be grown in an ordinary green- house or cool conservatory, and, when fully developed, forms a most attractive object. It grows freely in the usual compost, making fine pendant fronds from four to six feet long, and from two to two and a half feet in breadth in the widest part. The stout reddish purple mid-ribs are tubercled, and furnished at the base with a profuse quantity of slen- der chaffy scales: The trunk is dark- colored, and nearly a foot in diameter 14 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. in the widest parts, the imported speci- mens varying from live to ten feet in heiirht. SHRUBS FOR THE LAWN AND DOOR- YARD— CARE NECI^SSARY. The art (for it is an art) of pmning and keeping shrubs in neat shape is yet to be learned by most of the ruralists of tbe country. We have known of ca- ses of people so stupidly ignoi*ant that they pruned Spiraea, Deutzia, and Dwarf Almond, before the spring growth com- ijienced, and then wondered why they never got a blossom. They had not yet learned, or at least observed, that the blossoms are borne almost entirely upon last year's wood before the coming of the leaves. The best way of grow- ing shrubs nowadays is in groups or well-planted masses, thus giving a mu- tual ijrotection, and effective display. But, asTJie Country G^itleman observes: "When they are grown as isolated plants in front door-yards, it is neces- sary to make them hold their heads up, and look trim and tidy. Every day we see examples of such bushes tied up in compact bunches, with, a stake to secure greater uprightness; but towards April it is common to see stake and all dang- ling helplessly over. Then they are straightened by re-setting the stake, and by croppihg the disheveled tops by barbarous pruning-shears or knife. This treatment is senseless. It directly defeats the main object, which we sup- pose to be the securing of a plant of neat figure, robed in luxuriant leaves, and brightened with well - expanded flowers. For it is obvious that not one of these crowded shoots can open its leaves to the light, and as they were similarly suffocated last summer, they have nothing laid up — no means nor sub- stance from which to produce good flowers this year, even if there were room to display them. Next summer they will, of course, be barren too, if the leaves are given no room to turn. But the bush will do something, so long as it has roots safe and sound, and as it can do nothing else well, it will go back to the primitive course of throwing up fresh sprouts from the ground, thus adding to and aggravating the crowded condition above. The right treatment in such a case is to use a strong, narrow knife, or saw, or sharp-pointed pruning shears, such as French gardeners use, or a suitable chisel and mallet, and cut out all the old exhausted shoots, and all the young ones that are weak or un- ripe, close at the surface wherever pos- sible, or beneath it, for neatness' sake, leaving only those which have been first selected as the best placed. Separate these by tying or spreading, using a light hoop, if necessary, to secure a well-balanced and evenly distributed figure, with full room around each shoot for its flowering branchlets and leaves, and full access of light and free air throughout. If a stake seems needful, it will not look amiss, provided it is set erect and centrally, even although it may be thick and tall. In that posi- tion it may be even taller than the shoots. The shoots left to bloom should not be shortened further than to take out ill -turned, unsymmetrical branchlets, or slender ones incapable of bloom. If this care is supplemented by a tri- fling attention, in May or June, to pinch out the sprouts that will aj^pear numer- ously then, leaving only the suitably placed few that are wanted to fill va- cancies, or to renew good blooming canes, according to the nature of the plant, the fullest rewards of successful training will be attained. Some plants make a rank growth from the tops in August or September, and in their case THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 15 a pinching of the ends of wild or wan- ton shoots is advisable. Climbing- Ro- ses, Raspberries, Currants, Gooseber- ries, etc., class under the above rule of treatment. When shrubs ax-e grouped in masses they are not tied up in any formal figure. Pendent branehlets or low growing sorts placed in front of erect ones hide the stems, and present to the sight only leaves and flowers, as in natural boscage." HOME TREES AND FLOWERS. BY R. E. C. STEAKNS, Oldest Worked Wood in the World. — Probably the oldest timber in the world, which has been subjected to the use of man, is that which is found in the ancient temj^les of Egypt. It is found in connection with stone work which is known to be at least four thou- sand years old. The wood, and the only wood used in the construction of the temple, is in the form of ties, hold- ing the end of one stone to another in its upper surface. When two blocks were laid in place, then it appears that an excavation about an inch deep was made in each block, into which an hour- glass-shaped tie was driven. It is there- fore very difficult to force any stone from its position. The ties appear to have been the Tamarisk, or Shittim wood, of which the ark was construct- ed, a sacred tree in ancient Egypt, and now very rarely found in the valley of the Nile. These dove-tailed ties are just as sound now as on the day of their insertion. Although fuel is extremely scarce in that country, these bits of wood are not large enough to make it an object with the Arabs to heave off layer after layer of heavy stone for so small a prize. Had they been of bronze, half the old temples would have been destroyed ages ago, so precious would they have been for various purposes.^ — Journal of the Farm. If you are fortunate enough to pos- sess a homestead, consider the impor- tance of devoting a small portion of your time and money to the adornment of it. With a very small expenditure of the latter, and the judicious use of such leisure moments as may occasion- ally be spared from the hurry of busi- ness, the homestead grounds can be made to "blossom like the rose." The ornamenting of the grounds sur- rounding a house is of as much im- portance as the embellishment of the interior, and bpth are alike worthy of consideration, and should never be neg- lected. Make the homestead, in-doors and out, the most attractive j^lace within the reach of your children, and the boys will be less likely to become vic- ious, or the girls to go astray. The beauty of a place depends not so much upon showy buildings as upon green shady trees and climbing vines. The roughest whitewashed cottage, sur- rounded by trees and flowers, presents a beautiful apj)earance, and the costly mansion without these looks desolate and unattractive. The reason why the houses and villages of New England are so pleasant is due to the numerous trees which surround them, and with which the streets are lined. Many an old farm-house, unattractive in itself, is rendered picturesque by some grand old Elm. All the expense incurred, all the labor eipended, will repay you a hundred-fold. Home! Trees! Flowers! A blessed trinity ! Flowers ! ever jileasing the eye with their diversity of form, and regal- ing the nostrils with delightful perfume ! Flowers and trees! Who ever forgets the trees and flowers which grew about 16 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. the old homestead — "the cot where I was bom?" "It stood 'mid the shadow of green dark trees, The cot that my childhood knew; Around it the violets, the children of Spring, And the early Roses grew." Wherever you have a spare corner in your garden plant a tree; you will never regret it. You may live to enjoy its shade, and you will have done some- thing to beautify the earth. If nothing more, the morning song, of the bird that sings among the branches will be your benediction. EUCALYPTUS GLOBULUS, ITS USE IN IMPRO^TNG THE SALUBRITY OF MARSHY AND MALARIAL DISTRICTS. The many very intei*esting accounts which have been published with regard to the Eucalyptua globulus do not seem to have exposed all of its values. And we find in Comptes liendus of October 6th a note presented to the French Academy of Sciences by M. Gimbert, in which he describes another value equal- ly as great as those with which all are BO familiar. From reports received from various reliable sources, it seems to have been determined that in localities where the Eucalyptus flourishes there has been a complete disappearance of intermit- tent fevers. ' ' A tree," says the author, "springing up with incredible rapidity, capable of absorbing from the soil ten times its weight of water in twenty -four hours, and giving to the atmosphere an- tiseptic camphorated emanations, should play a very important part in improving the health of malarious districts." It has the property of absorbing directly and rapidly the water of shallow marsh- es, thus preventing fermentations which are produced, and paralyzing the animal miasma proceeding from them which might arise from them. The predic- tions with this regard, which were made in 186!), have in all cases been realized. The author furnishes a few of the nu- merous results, which are very inter- esting. The English were the first to experi- ment in their sanitary plantations in Cape Colony, where they were eminent- ly successful. Two or three years were found sufiicient to change the climatic conditions, and the aspect of the mala- rious districts of their possessions. Some years ago the Algerians took oc- casion to spread the Eucalyptus through- out the French possessions in Africa, and the following are some of the re- sults obtained, as communicated by M. Trottier: ' 'About twenty miles from Alger, at Pondouk," he says, " I owned a prop- erty situated near the river Hamyze, the emanations from which produced intermittent fever among the farmers and their servants every year. In the spring of 1867 I planted upon this farm 13,000 plants of the Eucah/ptus globulus. In July of that year, the season in which the fevers appear, the farmers were completely free from them. In the mean time the trees had scarcely attain- ed a height of more than eight or ten feet. Since that time the settled pop- ulation has bisen entirely free from fe- vers." Fourteen thousand Eucalyptus trees were planted upon the farm of Ben Machydlin, in the vicinitj' of Constan- tine. It has for several years past been noted for its insalubrity, being sur- rounded with marshes throughout the entire year. The trouble entirely dis- appeared, and the soil became perfectly dry in five years. The atmosphere is constant!}' charged with aromatic va- pors, the farmers are no longer troubled with disease, and their children are bright with health and vigor. THE CALITOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 17 The operations of the manufactory of Gue in Constantine were rendered wholly impracticable during the sum- mer on account of the pestilential ema- nations from the marshes with which it was surrounded. M. Saulier conceived and put into practice the idea of plant- ing a large number of Eucalyptus trees in these marshes, and in three years about twelve and a half acres of the marshy soil were converted into a mag- nificent park. The water completely disappeared, and the health of the workmen has since been in good con- dition. In consequence of the large grove of Eucahjpius globulus on the farm of Maison-Carree, which is situated in a district in which the inhabitants former- ly succumbed to the malaria, similar hygienic revolutions have taken place. It is stated by land-owners in Cuba that there, also, the paludal and telluric diseases have disai^peared from the ma- larial districts where the Eucalyptus has been cultivated. According to Ramel, Australia is very healthy where the Eucalyptus flourishes, and unhealthy where the tree is not found. On the banks of the Var, near the en- trance of a railroad bridge, is situated a garrison-house, near which earth -works were thrown up to dam the river in or- der to build the bridge. The malaria arising from it made it necessaiy to change the guard each year. Two years ago, M. Villard, the engineer in charge of that section of the road, planted forty trees in the vicinity of the build- ing, and since that time this post has been the most healthy in the country. These evidences fully establish the fact that the Eucalyptus globulus has a good eflect in preventing the spread of malarial diseases, and that it may serve decidedly practical purposes in this par- VoL. IV.— 3. ticular. Throughout oui- entire South and Southwest many valuable enter- l^rises have been wholly impracticable from causes stated above; and if the examples thus set before us were fol- lowed throughout the South, there is no doubt that many of the dismal, swampy, and marshy districts, hitherto entirely worthless, may be transformed into beautiful, pleasant, and healthy sections. — Monthly Report of the Depart- ment of Agriculture. A Rampant Wisterli. — The foreign joTirnals speak of a beautiful Wisteria — recently in full bloom — covering the front of a well known hotel near Slough, in England, and running around each end for some distance, making altogeth- er a length of about 150 feet. It was planted against a strong iron support of the veranda, which suj^port it long since lifted bodily from the ground, and broke in pieces with the seeming ease with which a man would break a lucifer match. A Laburnum grows against the building on one flank, and the contrast between the clusters of blue and yellow flowers is declared to be "perfectly charming." Potash in Plants. — A correspondent of the Country Gentleman gives the fol- lowing table, showing the amount of potash contained in 1,000 lbs. of ashes made by burning different kinds of wood: pine,^lb. ; poplar, fib. ; beech, lilb. ; maple, 4 lb. ; wheat-straw, 4 lbs. ; corn-stalks, 17 lbs.; oak-leaves, 24 lbs.; stems of potatoes, 55 lbs. : wormwood, 72 lbs.; sunflower stalks, 19 lbs. ; oak, 2^ lbs. ; beach bark, 6 lbs. The remain- ing portion of the ash, consisting of carbonate and phosphate of lime, iron, manganese, alumina, and silicia, is an excellent fertilizer. 18 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. UPON THE TEKM "NATUKAL." AS APPLIED TO LANDSCAPE. BY E. J. HOOPER. [Contin\ied from December Number.] A landscape may be considered as natural — we will instance Napa Soda Springs, by way of example — when we find in it all those productions which we meet with in a forest, except its redun- dancies. All the indigenous plants must be there, though their condition may be improved by trimming and lopping off superfluities, thus reducing the dense forest to a less crowded entanglement than in the unadapted wilderness. The trees may be allowed wider spread, and the shrubbery may grow more indej^end- ently outside of the thickest woods, in- stead of fonuing only a meagre skirting of undergrowth. The hand of man may assist the plants in obtaining their full development without excluding any species. The birds and other animals that are the true tenants of the wild- Avood must be present and be j^reserved, as well as some domestic animals, whose appearance in moderate numbers is the best evidence that the harmony of Na- ture has not been too greatly disturbed. We find in the primitive forest an en- tangled and crowded growth that ren- ders the charms of Nature unavailable to us, and many places inaccessible. A great entanglement obstructs our pas- sage and interferes with the course of vegetation. Then, the removal of these impedinients does, in truth, render Nat- ure more natural, as a plant becomes more natural when removed from a dark cellar into the open air. So long as no species of plant is destroyed which would be found in the i:)lace if it had not been subject to culture, and so long as each plant and animal enjoys its native habitat and circumstances of growth, the landscape has not been denaturalized by the removal of any ex- crescences. The word natural is not sufficiently precise to be used in philosophical dis- cussion. I should i^x'cfer a more specific term, which has not been generalized into unmeaningness by universal inap- propriate use. The term should ex- press a combination of all the proper- ties and characteristics of a wild scene, divested of its inconveniences and of everything that interferes with the growth and development of all those plants which Nature is struggling to develop, from the minutest Moss, or Fern, or Lichen, to the tallest Pine, or the widest-sjireading Oak. Just so far as we improve the development of the indigenous plants and animals, without deranging their natural pro- portions and relations to one another, so 'do we improve Nature without de- stroying her characteristics. Nature, when left to herself, admits of an ex- cessive crowding of species, as was ex- emplified in the Springs above alluded to, before the imjirovements were made; and it is only in occasional situations that she is enabled to afford any one tree or other j^lant its full proportions. It may be averred, that a scene is more natural in which everything has grownup with these imperfections; but we may with the same propriety contend that the dense and stived population of a crowded city — the Chinese quarters of San Francisco, for example — only half developed in their physical jDro- portions, from the want of light and fresh air, are more natural than the well-developed ijihabitants of the coun- try, or the less crowded and better por- tions of the cities. It seems to me that we may dcnaturaUze a place in the two following ways: Either by depriv- ing it of some of the individual species and groups that belong to it, or by ar- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 19 ranging- them in an order that can only be attained hj art. Nature has made certain gTOups to harmonize with one another, and to depend on each other; and if we too artfully disturb these re- lations, we do violence to her system. And though there may be certain nox- ious plants — the Poison-oak, for in- stance, pretty as it is — and sundry animals, which must for our own safety be extirpated, the offense we thereby commit against the order of Nature is a necessary deviation from a general prin- ciple. Some of the English artists in land- scape, and their followers, have omitted to take all these things into considera- tion, and have believed themselves pu- pils of Nature, when they have simply imitated her irregularities, in the ar- rangement of the different objects in their grounds, while they have omitted to copy her other graces or character- istics. It is true that Nature does not plant her herbs, trees, and shrubs in rows, or according to any mathemati- cal lines or figures; but it does not fol- low that one who plants in the same irregular manner, produces a work that is modeled after Nature. As well might we call him a mathematician who j^laces his figures in mathematical columns, while the figures have no relation to one another, and lead to no result. We must form our opinion of the character of any tract by the decision of Nature herself. If we find within it all those indigenous plants which would have been found there, had the grounds never been too greatly disturbed, and all the indigenous birds and animals accepting it as their home, then will we be justified in believing Nature to be truly the presiding goddess, receiv- ing the homage of all her creatures. The little solitary birds that flee the park and orchard, and reside only in the woods where certain of their natural conditions still remain, will not inquire whether the planter has arranged his trees or shrubs in rows, or scattered them at random; but whether he has left the wild bushes, grasses, and vines in which they are accustomed to nestle, and the wild fruits and seeds that afford them sustenance. Howsoever geomet- rically the trees and shrubs may be ar- ranged, if they are attended by the same groups and species that form their bed- ding and undergrowth in the wilder- ness, the tract thus arranged is more natural than a park consisting only of selected trees and lawn, without any undergrowth of native plants. In the one case, every natural circumstance is present, except the irregular j^lanting; in the other case, every natural circum- stance, except the irregular planting, is absent. Those improvers, therefore, who flatter themselves that they are copyists of Nature when they introduce the custom of irregular planting and of curved and straggling walks, while the surface is all smooth lawn and the walks neatly graveled, are as far from Nature as a lady florist, who, for the same reasons, scatters flower-pots in wild irregularity over her parlor carpet. A straight wagon-road is frequently made by our farmers through a level piece of woodland, and is then left to Nature, who embroiders its sides with all the herbs and flowers that habitu- ally inhabit such places. It never seems to me, when strolling through one of these rustic avenues, that it savors any less of Nature on account of its direct course; although, if very long, a walk in it is not so pleasant as in an irregular or Mdnding avenue. Both are artificial, for Nature makes no paths at all, unless we except the tracks of wild animals. But the plants arranged in almost straight lines in the one case, and in 20 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. curvilinear lines in the other, are all equall}'' natural, because they are in such case the spontaneous growth of Nature. Those situations in which Nature has been subdued by man, and afterward allowed to resume her sceptre, are of all places the most delightful, when she has completely re-established her em- pire over them. Such, I am confident, is their influence upon the majority of sensitive minds; not that these have more sympathy with Nature than with humanity, but that they enjoy more happiness among the simple scenes of the natural world than among the am- bitious works of art. Hence comes that serene pleasure that always attends us when we behold the rural deities re- suming their habitation in grounds once despoiled by man, and making known their presence by knolls tufted with moss, by plats of wild flowers, by tan- gled bowers, and the voice of the soli- tary bird that flees the haunts of luxu- rious wealth and sings only to the children of the rural regions. Note on Adiantum Fakleyense and Be- gonia SANGuiNEA. — Adiaiitum Farleyense is a native of Trinidad ; was found on the estate of Farley Hall, thereby its name; was sent to England by a ship from Barbadoes. My plant, now two feet high and two and a half feet wide, came from its native locality in Trini- dad, and has npt the least affinity to A. tenerum, which is not, I believe, found on the same island. Begonia aangainea takes its name from the blood-colored leaves. The flowers are pure white. Was introduced about f oi-ty years ago from Brazil. It is a very attractive window-plant, and should be in every collection, large or small. — R. Buid, Sr., in Gardener's Monthly. THE CULTUEE OF THE CINCHONA. The importance of an enterprise look- ing to the growing of the Cinchona-tree in sections of the world other than South America, can not be overrated. It is a question equally interesting to the botanist, the pharmaceutist, and vo- tary of economic science. In the last number of Nature there is an excellent account of the various eflforts made to j)ropagate this tree in India and Ceylon, from which we make the following brief summary : The Dutch Government took the ini- tiative steps, directing their efforts to the introduction of the tree in Java. The first Cinchona-trees sent out to that colony were specimens of the C. call- saya raised in Bolivia. In 1852 the Dutch government sent a Mr. Hasskarl on a mission to South America to pro- cure plants and seeds. The collection made was divided into two parts, one- half being sent to Java direct, and the remainder to Amsterdam. In 185G, there were 260 plants on the island of Java. Many serious troubles attended the early efibrts to raise the trees, aris- ing from insects, wild animals, and badly chosen localities on the island. At last, in 1860, success crowned their labors, and in 1803 the total number of trees in Java numbered 1,150,180. It was found that the G. calisaya in Java was the best adapted for the locality, the G. Palmdiana containing much less of the alkaloid. The efibrts of the British Government were commenced as early as 183'J. In 1852 the East India Company sent to the British consular agents in South America for seeds of the various species, but it was not until 1859 that the matter was fully taken in hand. Dui-ing this year Mr. Markham proposed a fourfold expedition to South America, and the plan being sanctioned THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 21 by the Secretary of State for India, the scheme was carried out. Expedi- tions were sent to Bolivia, Caravaya, to Cuerica and Loxa in Ecuador, and to New Grenada and to tlie Chimborazo districts. The illness and privation suf- fered by the searchers after these trees rendered the tftsk a difficult one. At last a fair stock was collected, but most of the plants were killed during the Red Sea transit to India. Once in In- dia, however, the few that survived throve immediately. At Ootamacuna a station was established in 1860, and in 1861, 1,128 fine young Cinchona-trees were reported as alive. In 1863 the number was 248,166. The efforts of the British Government have not been directed alone to accli- matize the Cinchona in India, for in Ceylon in 1863 they had 20,000 young trees. In referring to India matters (Blue Book of 1870) in the Bengal and Madras Presidencies, no less than four millions and a half Cinchona-trees are reported. Experiments with the Cinchona have been tried in the South of Europe, in the Caucasus, in the Brazils, Philip- pines, Australia, and Jamaica, but not of sufficient extent to have any signifi- cance. Of all the fine species of trees, the following seems to be the results as to alkaloids: C. calisaya, only a small proportion realizes expectation in its yields of quinine; C. Hasskarllana (call- ed a hybrid), which appears to be of little value in respect of alkaloids; C. Paliiuliana, deficient in the same par- ticulars, but producing a bark which finds a ready market for pharmaceuti- cal purposes in England; C officinalis, which, in British India, a,ppears to be the most generally satisfactory; and C. succiriibra, which, notwithstanding cer- tain exceptional samples, has not turn- ed out altogether well. Stream. ■ Forest and Climbing-plants for In-door Decora- tions.— There is nothing which will do more to beautify and give a home ap- pearance to a room, than a few nicely arranged climbers, properly trained over windows, picture frames and glasses. Many seem to have imbibed the idea that such plants require great art and skill in their production and proper treatment; but such is not the case, for no plants are more readily taken care of than these. My favorites are the Mau- randias, and particularly the M. Barclay vine. If raised from the seed, the sow- ing should not be later than the middle of June, but cuttings may be put into proper soil in August, which will make good plants for winter growth. Layers may sometimes be put down early in September, which, by plentiful water- ing, may make good plants. My best out-door specimen is now fourteen feet long, and will cover at least thirty square feet of surface. The colors vary with the variety, and are matters of taste. Next in order of favoritism comes the Cobcea scandens, or Mexican vine. There is some difficulty in start- ing the seeds of this plant in the open ground, though, with care, it can be done. From five seeds planted, this season, I have three fine plants for win- ter flowering. For filling pots for win- ter climbing vines, a mixture of equal parts of garden soil, sand, and leaf mold is best, and occasional waterings with liquid manure should be given. Some succeed very well with many of the varieties of Passiflora, or Passion Flower. The selection will depend up- on taste as to color, but my favorite would be P. cerulea, or P. pernlssa. — Journal of the Farm, 22 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUIIIST. LOUIS ACASSIZ: THE INVESTIGATOR, THE TEACHER, THE PHLLOSOPHER, AND THE BELIEVER. Bom in Motier, Switzerland, May 28th, 1807. Died in Cambridge, Mass,, December 14th, 1873. THE FIFTIETH BIRTHDAY OF AGASSI Z, May 28, 1857. by h. w. longfellow. It was fifty years ago lu the pleasant month of May, In the beautiful Pays de Vaud, A child in its cradle lay. And Nature, the old nurse, took The child upon her knee, Saying: " Here is a story-book Thy father has written for thee." "Come, wander with me," she said, Into regions yet untrod; And read what is still unread In the manuscripts of God." And he wandered away and away With Nature, the dear old nurse, Who sang to him night and day The rhymes of the universe. And whenever the way seemed long, Or his heart began to fail, She would sing a more wonderful song. Or tell a more marvelous tale. So she keeps him still a child. And will not let him go. Though at times his heart beats wild For the beautiful Pays de Yaud. Though at times he hears in his dreams The Ranz des Vaches of old. And the rush of the mountain streams From glaciers clear and cold; And the mother at home says, "Hark! For his voice I listen and yearn; It is growing late and dark. And my boy does not return ! " THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 23 CULTIVATION OF DATURA ARBOREA. The Datura arborea, sometimes call- ed Brugmansia, is a rapid grower, witli large foliage. There are several varie- ties. The one generally found in our greenhouses is called Datura Knightii; it has interesting double white funnel- shaped flowers, and verj' fragrant, which it bears profusely. The bloom is, how- ever, of rather short duration; still they are worthy of a place in every green- house. Can be stowed away under the stage, or in any odd, dark corner dur- ing the winter months. They can be I^ropagated from eyes. The whole of the last season's wood can be used as you would a grap^Yine, that is, with half an inch of wood to each bud, which can be placed in small pots, or a num- ber in shallow pans or boxes, as most convenient to the cultivator. If a gen- tle bottom heat is available they will root much quicker. They must be kept moist, but not wet. The young plants will do well during the winter, if a temj^erature of from 50*^ to 55 '^ can be maintained. Early in the spring they may be potted into four-inch pots, and started into growth in the hothouse; they will soon make rapid growth if as- sisted with bottom heat. From the time they are first potted, they must be constantly attended to in that respect. As soon as the roots have reached the sides of the pot, shift into larger size ones till they have reached fifteen or eighteen inches; large plants are re- quired. If you wish to grow dwarf standards, put stakes to them, taking care to keep the stem perfectly upright, then the side shoots must be pinched oif, leaving three or fotu' at the top. When the plant has attained the height you wish — from two to three feet is a convenient height, and looks well — pinch out the top. After this is done. the three or four side shoots not rubbed oft" will grow fast, and are the foimda- tion of the head. These shoots can each have their terminal bud pinched out in the same way as you did the top of the plant. After they are three or four inches long they will then throw out several shoots each, and quickly form a head. If any cross -growing shoots show themselves, cut them clean away, or any other shoots that would tend to crowd the plant. The main shoots must not be stopped after this, but allowed to grow till they produce flower-buds; they had then better be removed to the coolest part of the house for a few days, previous to their remov- al to the greenhouse or conservatory, where they will continue to flower for a long time, filling the house wuth their powerful fragrance. They grow best in a compost loam, (sod cut from an old pasture), Jersey peat, and cow-dung, about two parts of the first and equal parts of the latter. If sod from a pas- ture is cut and laid by until it is well rotted, it is then enriched with veget- able matter, and will then grow any- thing. Plants of a succulent nature, like the Datura, will grow better if a por- tion of the peat and cow-dung, or leaf mold is added. If the j)lants are to be placed on the lawn, or any other con- spicuous place about the grounds, pro- tect them as much as possible from the wind, which, as the foliage is large and brittle, is very liable to be broken. They may be planted out about the time the ordinary bedding subjects are put in their summer quarters, tak- ing care to support them with stout stakes and neatly tied. They can either be plunged in their pots, or turned out. Before frost appears, they must of course be taken up with a ball of earth, and packed closely under the stage (if room is an object) upon the ground. 24 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. keeping them without water; and after they have dropped their leaves, they may be pruned, top and root, then pot- ted in fresh soil prepared as stated, slightly watered, placed in the back part of the hothouse or greenhouse until the buds commence to grow, then at once remove the light. In pruning the head cut in rather close to the stem, that is within two or three buds; you can then select the best placed ones that will make the handsomest head, cutting the others entirely away. All they will require this season is to stop any shoots that show a tendency to become more vigorous than their fel- lows. The Acarus tellariits, or Red Spider, is the greatest pest, and care must be taken to frequently syringe the plants, more particularly the under -side of the leaves. They can not exist where syringing is well attended to. Water is death to the Red Spider. — Thos. F. Webb in the Gardener's Monthly. ViciA Stativa — (Common Vetch, or Tare), 17th class and 4th order of Lin- nteus; Diadelphia decandra — a valuable herbage plant. Some consider the vsrin- ter variety a distinct species, but Prof. Martin proved by cultivating both, that they were not even very distinct varieties. The winter variety is sown in Septem- ber and October, and the summer at different periods, from February to June. For successive cuttings, the soil requires to be in good condition; other- wise they will produce but a poor crop of herbage. On a good soil they will yield ten or twelve tons per acre, which is found to be excellent for milch cows and working stock. The crop is seldom left to ripen its seeds, except when the seeds are wanted; the only use made of them is for sowing or feeding pigeons. There are from thirty-eight to one hun- dred species in this genus, and some of them highly esteemed by European farmers. SuBscRmEE. EL^AGNUS PARVIFOLIUS. This plant (Silver Thorn) is destined, in all probability, to play an important part in the rural affairs of the United States. No one but at once grants the gravity of the fence question. It is ad- mitted, that if the whole farm land of the Union were to be called on at once to renew the timber fences, the best part of our farmers would become bank- rupt. A cheap live fence, and one easi- ly managed, would fce one of the great- est blessings to the people of this nation. So far, the best thing has been the Osage Orange. This is the best chiefly because the seed can be easily procured, and because the plants are very easily and rapidly raised from the seed. These are great advantages; but the disadvan- tages are its tree-like character, which requires much skillful labor to keep it down to proper dimensions; and also that it only produces thorns on its young growth. "Wood once formed never gets thornier; and should per- chance naked places occur, it is almost impossible to fill these places in. As a sort of sop to this disposition, plashing and other patching schemes have been adopted, all of which are tolerably suc- cessful in the hands of intelligent men who are not afraid to work. The fact, however, is patent as we travel through the country, that nine-tenths of the Osage Orange hedges planted in this country have become nuisances to eveiy- body that has any relation to them. Heretofore few plants which are but naturally shrubs, grow fast enough to make a protective hedge within t^i rea- sonable time, or if they do, are deficient THE CALIFOKNIA HOKTICULTURIST. 25 in some other element of a good hedge. This Elceagmii^ seems to be nearer onr idea of a good hedge plant than any- • thing -we have seen. Some years ago a small quantity was set out for trial on the grounds of the Experimental Gar- den at Washington; and when the wri- ter saw it, in company with Mr. \Vm. Saunders, he was informed that it had proved entirely satisfactory in every re- spect. It does not grow more than a few inches high the first year from seed; but these small seedlings dibbled out in the hedge-row, grow as rapidly as Osage Orange transplanted the first season. We saw, recently, a line half a mile long set out last spring, mere threads then, most of which are two feet high, and thick and bushy now. They look very harmless the first year, having no thorns; but there are large numbers of short branches, from a quarter of an inch to two inches in length, and these become sharp sjmies the next year. The older the plants the spinier they become — an excellent feature in a first-class hedge plant. The second and third years branches are produced from three to five feet long, thus soon reaching a good hedge height. But the plant rare- ly shows any disposition to go above six or eight feet high, when the plants are massed together. When they reach this height, they grow by sending strong shoots out from the stems near the ground, thus perpetually self-thicken- ing— another excellent feature. If pruned, they make a first-class hedge; if totally neglected, they are still pro- tective, and not the useless eyesore of an Osage Orange. Plants three or four years old seed, so that in a few years with any moderate encouragement, plants in abundance could be obtained. Besides its protective value, it has a very beautiful appearance; the under Vol. IV. -4. side of the leaf, as well as the young growing branches, are silvery, whence its common name. South of the Poto- mac it would probably be an evergreen. In Pennsylvania it holds its leaves to Christmas. The flowers are greenish- white, not showy, but resemble in fra- grance the celebrated English Haw- thorn. The berries which succeed are of a mottled red. How much cold it will stand before it becomes injured, is not known to the writer. It has re- mained uninjured in the slightest degree in one situation, when the last year's shoots of the Osage Orange and Honey Locust have been destroyed, and when the thermometer has been 14^ below zero. It will probably endvire much more. It is called, in European catalogues, E. refiexus, and some other names, but De Candolle adopts Wallich's name, E. parvifolius. It is a native of the Himalaya Mountains. — The Gardener's Monthly. The Osage Orange. — The Madura aurantiaca has become a familiar shrub in most parts of the United States, from its general use as a hedge-j^lant; but it is now proposed to utilize the Osage Orange for other purposes. A decoc- tion of the wood is said to yield a beau- tiful and very permanent yellow dye; and this decoction, carefully evaporated, forms a bright yellow extract called au- rantine, which may be used in impart- ing its color to fabrics. In addition to this coloring-matter, the wood of the Osage Orange is rich in tannin. Ex- periments made in Texas represent that hides are tanned quicker with the wood of this tree than with oak-bark. The seeds yield a bland, limpid oil, resem- bling olive-oil, and which may, in gen- eral use, be substituted for it. — Report of Dejiartment of AgricuUure. m 26 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Roses — Ameeican Culture. — The Rose never wearies us; we enjoy every men- tion of it; and though not a new beau- ty, yet its beauty never wears out. Read what The American Rural Home says about planting Rose-beds: " The Rose likes a virgin soil, and the nearer the composition of our Rose- beds approximates to that, the greater will our success be likely to be. Henco decayed sods, and leaf-mould from the woods when it has been sweetened by the sun, are good fertilizers. The old- fashioned way of scattering Roses about the lawn is not the best way. Their culture, thus isolated, is apt to be neg- lected, and grass works in and chokes tljem; besides, the effect is not equal to where they they are gi'oupcd in a round or oblong bed, highest in the centre. Suppose that we decide to plant a bed of Hybrid Perpetuals. In the centre we would want a white Rose, or a clus- ter of white Roses, according to the size of the bed. Madame Alfred de Rougemont is one of the finest whites. Portland Blanche is another fine one. Next we could have a row of flesh color and light pink. Caroline de Sansal is one of the finest of the former, and Sydonie of the latter. Auguste Mie (rosy pink) would pretty nearly coire- spond with this shade. The next row should be still deeper — rose or deep rose. Of this shade, wo have Baronnc Prevost, Victor Verdier, and IMadamo Victor Verdier. In the next row wo could have rosy crimson, rosy lilac, rosy carmine, and vermilion. Among those of these shades, Anne de Dies- bach, General Washington, John Hop- per, L. Reine, Mad. Fremion, Maurice Bernardiu, and William Griffith, rank the highest. On the outside we could have the deepest shades, as deep red, crimson, and velvety. Dr. Arnal, Fran- coise Arago, Giant of Battles, General Jacqueminot, Jules Margottin, Pius the Ninth, Prince Camille de Rohan, and TriomiDhe de I'Exposition would fill the outer ring. We do not say that this order should be strictly adhered to, but we think the highest eflfect would be produced by having white in the centre, and gradually shading deeper to the cir- cumference. All that we have named are first-class Roses, and our readers may be assured that in selecting from them they will get no inferior Rose." Sesamum Orientale. — Bean or oily grain, didynamia angioiqycrma, 14:th class and order 2d of LinnsBUs; Pcdalinece of Jussicu; two to four species, a native of the East Indies, etc. These plants were introduced into Jamaica by the Jews, and are now cultivated in most parts of that island. They are called Van- glo or Oil Plant, and the seeds are used in broths by many of the Europeans, but the Jews make them into cakes. Many of the oriental nations look upon the seed as a hcaiiy and wholesome food, and press an oil from them similar to the oil of Almonds. It has also been manufactured ioto a salad oil. S. Indicinn is closely related to Mar- tynia of the gardens. The ^eeds are small and yellowish, and contain a great deal of oil. Mr. Gordon, of Staten Island, has tried it; it grows about two feet high, but in troj^ical climates it grows to five or six feet; the oil is of excellent quality, and is used for the same purpose, as Olive oil. SUBSCKIBEB. The He^vlthfulxess of Lemons. — i When people feel the need of an acid, if they would let vinegar alone, and use Lemons or Apples, they would feel as well satisfied, and receive no injury. A suggestion may not come amiss as to a 10 jk*" « trodteWr lit,, «i|p «■«!««» *m 3 t ^'■^^'^^ ii THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 27 good plan, ■when Lemons are cheap in the market, to make good Lemon symp. Press your hand on the Lemon and roll it back and forth briskl}' on the ta- ble to make it squeeze more easily; then press the juice into a bowl or tumbler — never into a tin; strain out all the seeds, as they give a bad taste. Remove all the pulp from the peels, and boil in wa- ter— a pint for a dozen pulps, to extract the acid. A few minutes boiling is enough; then strain the water with the juice of the Lemons; put a pound of white sugar to a pint of the juice; boil ten minutes, bottle it, and your lemon- ade is ready. Put a tablespoonful or two of this Lemon syrup in a glass of water, and have a cooling, healthful drink. — Farmers' Union. CUKIOSITIES OF THE SEA BOTTOM. Forest and Stream has a communica- tion from Commodore Beardslee, com- manding the steamer Blue Light, as- sisted by Professor Verrill, of Tale College, from which we copy the fol- lowing passages : Cape Cod is a dividing line upon our coast. South of it one class of crea- tures are found in profusion, but the quohog clam (the Calista cwivexa), cer- tain star-fishes and worms, and the oys- ter, have not existed, or, having existed, have become extinct north of this line, except in a very few localities. A live Calista convexa (a species of clam), brought up in Casco Bay, upset at once the opinion held till then that it was extinct so far north. Quohog shells in plenty we find in the ancient Indian shell mounds, which dot every slope of the island, showing that once they ex- isted in plenty. Now but one little bay — a mere cove at the head of Casco Bay — furnishes this creature, which. south of Cape Cod, is but the common plentiful clam. Oyster shells, of a size to which a Saddle Rock is but a pigmy, lie thickly planted six feet below the present bottom of Portland harbor. They too, however, are extinct. In that great convulsion of nature that was so sweeping in its effects not a living oyster was left to fulfill a mission. It seems a sad mistake up here, where oysters could be eaten every day in the year, and the nightly blanket renders superfluous the mosquito bar. But the ocean is still well filled, and with fruits and flowers, with vegetables and plants, masons and well-diggers, robbers and cannibals, and each bearing in a great- er or less degree a resemblance either in appearance or habits, to the creature or object above water that it is named for. Away down in the dark depths, animal life utilizes every inch of ground, and no square foot above the surface can equal in number or variety of forms the same space at the bottom of the sea. Strange, odd, horrible creatures, with none or many eyes, with speckled bod- ies, and long, slimy, clinging arms, changing at once their form and size at will, and, like the genii of the Arabian Tales, from a mere starting-point ex- tend themselves almost indefinitely in size. Beautiful creatures, too, as the anemones and dahlias, at first fright- ened and jarred as we see them in the dredge, mere masses of pink or purple flesh, covered with a tough skin; left to themselves in a cool, dark place, they protrude, from an opening in their bod- ies, clusters of gay-colored and grace- fully-moving antennae, which in some branch like coral, in others bear close resemblance to the stamens and petals of flowers. Down here the animal kingdom takes from the floral tribe the duty of embellishing. Living, breath- ing, food-devouring flowers, and the .J 28 THE CALIFORNIA HO'TICULTUKIST. kitchen garden, too, and orchard, are not unrepresented. Sea cucumbers, {Penlactafrondo$a), sea peaches (CvJiZ/im pyriformis), sea pears {BoUenia davala), and apples are found in plenty, the former so close a simile of the fruit, both in color and form, that it could bo mistaken the one for the other. The flowers, beautiful as they are, are but brigands; those gpraceful petals wave but to entice and grasp a victim, which, when seized, is pressed close to its mouth, and then, even if larger than its captor, is swallowed whole. The process of swallowing whole a moreel larger than the swallower is rather an unusual proceeding among animals, and of course an unusual method has to be adopted. The anem- one does it in this way : holding tight- ly its prey, it gradually protrudes its stomach from its mouth, and turning it inside out, envelopes its dinner, and then lies quietly awaiting the death and digestion. It rejects such portions as are not suitable, and stows away its stomach for future use. What a ble.ss- ing some men would esteem this facultv to be! The sea cucumber is another curious creature; first found it is a small, com- pact "gherkin;" left to itself, it wUl swell and develop to an immense cu- cumber, quite large enough to make a boat of, if the sea urchins had the same habits as did those urchins of whom I was once one. — ' •— ♦ _ New Shbub.— One of the finest and most remai-kable hardy shrubs recently introduced into England is EUsagnm longipes. It comes from Japan. It is of medium size; the flowers are pro- duced in gi-eat profu.sion, and are suc- ceeded by berries, orange in color, ob- long in form, speckled with brownish scales. (gditoml portfolio. OUB CITY PAEK. n ATAILABIIJTT POB nuCTICAX PCEP06M. k California is destined in the near futue to become a great agricultural Stat, and even now is assuming her plac in the front rank of cereal-growinc coumes, it is of the utmost importance that we should lay a sure and solid fouaation upon which to rear this aw- ricuiiral superstructure, so that it may, whe.once established, remain forever. T: n might be asked, as very lii-L .. ...il, how is this to be done? I aswer, by knowledge — knowledge bon of sci< nee and experience, prac- tical ntl thcurctical; that which springs from the mental labor of the stu- dent as well as from the manual toil of th husbandman. A short time ago, whei " book farming," as it is term- ed, ti5t s|ir -n^' into existence, it was an obja of riilicule with many, and no sarcam was too bitter, or wit too sharp, to bjaunched at it Time, that great equazcr of all things, has somewhat chancd the relation between theoreti- cal ad jractical fajming. Ml Mecchi, a perfumer of London, has pren to all England that admirable systei of sewerage farming, which is in- creasig her agricultural products four- fold. In our country the writings of Brideman and Downing have brought orchai and market gardening to a high state )f i>erfection- In Australia the reseaihes of Dr. Muller have added large! to the agricultural wealth of that ountry. Agricultural and horti- cultml magazines and papers, all over the weld, have done good work in the dissennation of knowledge in their re- specti-j departments; and the labor, thoug often unrequited, is now bear- ing gcden fruit. .•c^- i*>*»?^U ^ :*p^ m^ SJMBf' -o*. t ^-i*!*^ 2* 1^ 9 m- THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTTJKIST. 29 But, with all tins, another power should be brought into the field, and co-ojierate with those already occupying it; and this is, the State and city gov- ernments. In many countries this is done; and our own General Government has for many years been doing good ser- vice in the publication of the monthly and yearly agricultural reports. Still, in addition to this, each State should do something for the unfolding of her special agricultural resoiirces — some- thing that could be received alike by all her j)eople and made of actual use. Her natural products, such as timber, grasses, and various useful plants, more especially, should receive proper care and attention. Reckless waste and ex- travagant use should be controlled, and the people within her borders taught the necessity of moderation in use and the great value of replacement. Cities should use their j^ublic i^arks as botani- cal gardens, and thus show the natural productions of the whole State, By this means the newly arrived agricult- urist, with but a slight knowledge of Botany, might gather information in respect to the climate and soil of the different parts of the State. In this article, which is but the out- line of what could be written on the subject, I desire to speak of our Park. San Francisco is now engaged in estab- lishing a park which will be of great value to her as a pleasure and health- giving spot, and can also, if rightly managed, be made of still greater value, as an index to the Botany of the Pacific coast. It has often been said that Bot- any is a mere ornamental study, and one of no great practical value. This is far from true. Botany is really an index to the character of climate and soil, and, therefore, is of great impor- tance to agriculturists. The intelligent farmer, with a slight knowledge of this science, is enabled to judge of far-off countries and their adaptability for set- tlement. In view of these facts, we should en- deavor to so make known our resources and products, that all may see and understand their tiiie value. In fur- therance of this object a scientific man should be chosen as superintendent of the Park — one at the same time capable of imparting this knowledge to the peo- ple, who are more especially engaged in the kindred branches of Agriculture and Horticulture. Reports should be made from time to time by him of his observations in these branches. Under such management the Park would be no greater burden than at present, no pleasure would be lessened, while it would of necessity prove of great value to the State at large. C. A. Stivers, M. D, The request of "A Subscriber" for a list of plants adapted to a northern shady situation, will be complied with in the February number. Woodward's Gardens. — Notwithstand- ing the inclemency of the weather at the present season, these grounds and conservatories are in fine order, and the plants in a growing condition — demand- ing, however, a largo amount of addi- tional attention. Considerable addi- tions have been made to the aviaries, many valuable birds having been re- cently purchased. In other depart- ments the work of renovation and im- provement is progressing vigorously. Prei:)arations are being made for a series of novel and interesting balloon ascen- sions; and every exertion is being used by the proprietor to render the ap- proaching season gratifying and satis- factory to the public. 30 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. NOTICES OF SOCIETIES. Fruit-growers' Society of Pennsyl- vania.— This Society will hold its an- nual meeting this season at Mechanics- burg, Cumherland County, on the 21st, 22d, and 23d of June, 1874. The prac- tical details of fruit culture are gener- ally fully discussed, and the meetings usually very fully attended. Mechan- icsburg is on the railroad leading from Hari'isburg to Chambersburg, and very easy of access. In one of the most successful fruit regions of the State, there is no doubt much useful informa- tion w'ill be elicited by the meeting. FAVOKS RECEIVED. It gives us pleasure to acknowledge the receipt of the Monthly Report of the DejMriment of Agriculture for No- vember. It is replete with valuable statistics and general information. The Overland Monthly, for January, is decidedly the best number yet j)ub- lishedof this really first-class magazine. " Abrasions of the Northwest Coast," "California Indians," " Summering in the Sierra," " New Zealand," "Seeking the Golden Fleece," are specially inter- esting. No. G of the Flower Garden is at hand. This quarterly periodical com- bines the magazine with a copious cata- logue and price-list. It is published by Beach, Son & Co., 76 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, N. Y. Terms, $1 per year. During a recent passage from Havre to San Francisco, it became needful to economize in the use of fresh water. Bread mixed with sea-water was found not only to be better, but also to keep longer. It was made use of for a long period without resulting in a single case of sickness aboard. FLORAL REVIEW. BY F. A. MILLEE. Tliat our gardens have a much binght- er appearance during the winter months than those of our Eastern friends, is well known to every one; nevertheless flowers are rather scarce with us at this time, and our florists can not readily satisfy the demand. I would suggest that our amateurs, therefore, pay more attention to winter flowering plants, for the very reason that flowers are much more appreciated when they are less ijlentiful. While some shrubs and plants flower much better with us dur- ing winter than summer — for instance, the Laurustinus, Poly gala, Veronica, Stevia, Chrysanthemum, Violet, Pansy, Diosma, and Erica — others may be had in bloom at this time by j^roper treat- ment— such as Roses, Stocks, Gladio- lus, Lilies, Pinks, etc. To accomplish this, let some Roses rest during the months of July and August by keeping them dry, and then irrigate freely in September and October, occasionally working up the ground around them. This treatment will force out young wood and buds, which will come to per- fection during the winter months, as the frost in our milder «regions is not heavy enough to injure them. This can not be done with all the varieties of Roses which we cultivate. The best for that purpose are most of the Tea Roses, the Bengal (or China) Roses, and some of the Bourbons; a few of the Per- petuals, such as General Jacqueminot and Geant de Battailles, may also bo successfully treated in this way. Gladiolus and Lily roots will produce their flowers in winter, if planted in September and October. Stocks will also do as well, if the seed is planted late; and Pinks are sure to bloom throughout the winter months, if the THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 31 soil around them is well manured and worked up in September. Add to those already named the Pelargoniums, He- liotropes, Fuchsias, Abutilons, Solhja heterophylla, Hydrangea, Ageratum, and others, which bloom as freely in win- ter as summer with us, and I see no reason why our gardens should not look cheerful and bright at this time. During the holidays just past, our florists had their hands full, the demand for flgwers having been in excess of the supply. Probably $15,000 were paid for cut-flowers, bouquets, and floral dec- orations, which is a large amount for a city with less than 200,000 inhabitants. The bulk of the flowers used were Ro- ses, Pinks, Stocks, Candy-tuft, Sweet Alyssum, Violets, Stevia, Gladiolus, Pelargoniums, Fuchsias, Pansies, Lau- rustinus, Diosma, Erica, Mignonette, Gypsophila, and Abutilon, all of which were grown in the open ground. The choice and more costly flowers from the greenhouses were, Camellias, Eu- charis. Tuberoses, Epiphyllums, Aga- panthus, Azalea, Heliotrope (also from the open ground), Spanish Jasmine, Cyclamen, Poinsettia, Chinese Prim- rose, Begonia, Cineraria, Orange-blos- soms, and Adiantum cimeaimn. The price for Camellia bouquets during the holidays was from $2.50 to $5, and for baskets of flowers, from $5 to $30, which is from thirty to forty per cent, higher than the prices usually paid. This goes far to show that the people of San Francisco do love flowers, and are willing to pay their money for them. I believe I am correct when I state that the people of such cities as Chicago and St. Louis ex^Dend much less for this pur- pose. At the same time it is well known that our florists furnish much more for the same amount of money than the florists of the Eastern cities are in the habit of doing, during the winter sea- son. This is mostly due to the large expense incurred there in cultivating all the flowering plants, under glass by artificial heat, at this time. During the coming month Hyacinths and the Lily of the Valley will be in bloom, and continue to flower for sev- eral months, in the house or under glass; Cyclamen, Camellias, Eucharis, Azaleas, Epiphyllums, Bouvardias, He- liotropes, and many other choice house- plants will furnish their quota of flowers. The weather for the past month has been very unfavorable for greenhouse plants, and little could be done in the open air on account of continual storm and rain, from the effects of which we suffer more in California than from se- vere cold. During such weather it is very important that plants in general be kept dry. This can not be well done unless the houses are artificially heated; and I believe we will have to come to this, if we wish to succeed in the culti- vation of certain choice and more deli- cate house-plants. A very small heat- ing apparatus will be sufiicient to keep up the proper temperature in this cli- mate, and to relieve us of the loss caused by "damjiing off" on account of super- fluous moisture. Several parties here are now making preparations for heat- ing apparatus, which experiments, I hope, will lead to some successful mode of heating houses. There is yet time to plant the Hya- cinth and Narcissus. For winter flow- ering they are indispensable. Bulbs and flowering roots have been imported plentifully this season, and many varie- ties are in the market, which heretofore have been very scarce, or could not be obtained. In the oj)en ground, Snowdrops, Cro- cuses, Ranunculus, Tulips, Anemones, Dielytrias, and Pa^onies should be plant- ed at once. 32 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. The planting of trees, slirubs, and hardy herbaceous plants should not be delayed. An occasional rain during the winter season will help them very much, and will double their growth next spring and summer. EEPOrvT ON THE FEUIT AND VEGli- TABLE MARKET. BY E. 3. HOOPEB. I have hitherto written of the various fruits, theu' conditions, and merits — except the different nuts, as found in our markets. I shall now say a few words concerning the latter productions. It is not usual for us to see all the va- rieties of nuts displayed in our market stalls, yet in plentiful seasons they can be purchased at some of them. The choicest nuts are usually sold in our fine groceries, fruit-stores, and at our confectioneries . And first, with regard to Almonds. The jDart eaten is the kernel of the dry pit or shell of the Sweet Almond, some of which have shells so soft that they are easily crushed by the fingers. These are known as the Sultana, but more usually called Soft or Upper-shell, and Ladies' Thin-shell; the thick-shell are known as the Jordan or Hard-shell, They are now being much cultivated all over our State, especially in the south- ern parts of it, and with much success. Large supplies are also brought here from the south of Europe. The fresh or new nuts usually arrive in our win- ter months, when they are found very tender and sweet, with much of the "nutty flavor;" while the old nuts are hard, diy, and with but little of this ex- cellent flavor. Those excellent nuts, the Black AVal- nuts, when ripe, with the husk off, are round and very rough, and black on the exterior. They are not plentiful here, but may be had during January and February, and will keep for many months. The ripe kernel is very large, sweet and wholesome, particularly when eaten with a little salt. The immature fruit, while in the green, tender, out- side shell, and before the internal shell has become hard, (which it usually does in the months of June and July, accord- ing to location), makes the "Walnut cat- sup, or is used for pickling. Brazil-nuts are natives of South America, and are of a dark-brown col- or, being rough - shelled and three- cornered, with a large white kernel, having the flavor of the Hazel-nut, and are verj^ oily. The season for the new nuts is from April to June. Butternuts, White Walnuts, or Oil- nuts, are a sjjecies of the Walnut, re- sembling, when young, the Black Wal- nut, but elongated and smaller. When ripe they are of an oval, oblong form, not quite so large nor so rough as the Black Walnut, and are of a different flavor, with an agreeable taste, and rich in oil. When green and soft, they are excellent for pickling. They ripen in the month of August. In the Eastern States these nuts are known as Oil-nuts, and in southern Ohio ajid other sec- tions, as the White Walnut. The Cashew-nuts are natives of the Indies, but are sometimes brought here. The nut or fruit is in size like an ajiple, some being of a white, red, or yellow color; and like the Cherry, they taste sweet and pleasant, but sometimes are sharp and astringent. The kidnej'- shaped seed grows on its summit, and when roasted, is superior to the Almond. Of Chestnuts there are but two kinds represented here — the common Ameri- can Chestnut and the large Spanish Chestnut. Great quantities of the lat- ter are sold roasted, in a hot state, along THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 33 some of our public streets. The com- mon Chestnut, however, is the best flavored, especially when fresh, and is excellent, either raw, roasted, or boiled. Their season commences in the begin- ning of September and continues good throughout the winter. The Chincapin-nut, or Dwarf Chest- nut, is a small variety of the Chestnut, growing on smaller trees, and is con- sidered about the same quality. It is seldom seen here, but is quite plentiful in the markets of Baltimore and Phila- delphia, and is known by some as the Dwarf Chestnut. The Cocoanut is the best flavored of all the foreign kinds. They come from the islands of the Pacific, and from Bara- coa, Brazil, and other places. The white kernel, although hard, woody, and tough, in its fresh state, is said to be very nutritious; and though in its unprepared state not very digestible, yet, when grated, it makes excellent puddings, pies, cakes, and is used in candies, etc. It contains a white liquid called milk, which is sweet and nour- ishing. The nuts should never be pur- chased except when this milk is heard to shake within them. The Cocoa-nut tree furnishes food, raiment, milk, oil, toddy, cups, bowls, cordage, brushes, mats — in fact, it is difficult to say what it does not furnish to the Indian. "The Indian nut alone Is clothing, meat, and trencher, drink and pan, Boat, cable, sail, and needle — all in one." Filberts are said to be an improved variety of the common Hazel-nut, but a great deal larger. The best kind is called the Red Filbert, known by its crimson skin; and also another, called the large Spanish Filbert. They are found in the East throughout the year, but the new nuts are received from Oc- tober to January. The Ground-nuts, Chufas, or Earth- VOL. IV.— 5. Almonds, are small oval tubers. Having the name of nut applied to them is the reason why they are placed under this head. They are hardly ever seen in our market, no doubt in consequence of their smallness, although they are con- sidered esculent, nutritious, and worthy of culture, which improves them in size. They are ready for use at the end of the summer months. When roasted, their taste is much like boiled Chestnuts; they are white, mealy, and well flavored, and when dried, their taste is somewhat similar to the Almond. In some parts of Europe they are used for making an orgeat, which, with water, makes a milky drink, much used in Spain and other hot climates where they are known. Hazel-nuts, or Wild Filberts, are much of the shape, form, and color of the Filbert, but are smaller, thicker shelled, and better flavored. They grow on bushes alongside the borders of the woods and the fences, in clusters of frizzled husks; and when they begin to open, or show the end of the nut, they are fit to eat. They usually appear in July or August. Of Hickory-nuts there are several va- rieties, which are often found mixed together, and it requires some knowl- edge of them to select the best. The choice nuts are generally known under the name of Shell-barks, or Shag-barks. These grow on the shaggy-bodied trees, having a thin shell, a very well-tasted full kernel, of a good size, and they ripen in September and October. Mocker- nuts, or Thick -shelled Hickories, are usually a larger and rounder nut, but with a very thick shell, while the kernel is small but sweet. There is also a smaller thick-shelled nut which some call the White-heart Hickory, but prob- ably it is the same grown in a poorer soil. Pig-nut Hickories, which are smaller, 34 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. fig-shaped nuts, have a kernel with a bitterish taste, though sometimes they are found pretty sweet. This tree pro- duces the toughest wood of all the kinds. For the want of space we must defer our descriptions of the remainder of the nut family to our next report. A small lot of fine Oranges received during the last of December from Pu- tah Creek, Solano County, found quick sales at $1.50 per dozen. It is a singu- lar fact that, although some hundreds of miles farther north, Solano comes into market with some fruits a month ahead of Los Angeles. A new variety of fruit, not heretofore cultivated in this county, has thus come to market — a consignment of 350 Oranges from the ranch of J. R. Wolfskill. They were exceedingly fine specimens, large and fully ripened. They obtained nearly double the price of those which first ar- rived from Los Angeles. Thus Solano fruit-growers may be encouraged and induced thereby to plant Orange groves. On the 26th of December new Pota- toes were quoted at 6c. per pound; Cabbage-sprouts retailed at 12|c. per pound; Savoy Cabbage, 10@15c. each; Artichokes, $1 per dozen; Jerusalem Ar- tichokes, 8c. per pound; Horse-radish, 25c. per pound; Parsley and Water- cress, 20c. per dozen bunches. The va- rious kinds of Lettuce ranged from 25 to 37^c. per dozen bunches; Kale, 50c. per dozen; Tomatoes, nearly given out. Ripe Tomatoes were not to be had at any price, and the green vegetable was quoted at 8c. per pound; extra fine quality of the same description, 25c.; cultivated Mushrooms from the gar- dens of Stockton, 25c. per pound. The wholesale market price of Pine- api^les during the last week of Decem- ber was exceedingly high, but there was no corresponding response in the price of the same descriptions of fruit by retailers, choice lots being oflered at $1 each. Lady Apples, imported from Oregon for the holidays, brought 15 cts. per pound. Other kinds of Ap- ples ranged from 5 to 8 cts. per pound. Oranges, on the 26th of December, be- came more abundant at the prices of the week before. Lemons were a trifle easier, inferior being obtainable at 75 cts. and choice at $1.25 per dozen. As usual during the holiday season, there was a very poor display of fruits, varieties being few and the quality in- ferior, though better and more various than could be found in the East at the same season. With the exception of those already mentioned, there was no change in supply or prices of other de- scriptions, compared with our last re- port in the December number of the HORTICULTUEIST, Best Time to Cut Timber. — Dr. Har- tig, who has made numerous experi- ments to determine the point, states that March and April are the best months in which to cut timber for build- ing purposes, as it then contains its lowest per cent, of moisture, which ho states to be forty-seven per cent. Dur- ing the three previous months it has fifty-one per cent., and the three fol- lowing ones, forty-eight. He fui-ther states that properly seasoned timber should not contain more than from twenty to twenty-five per cent, of moist- ure, and never less than ten per cent. If the moisture is removed to a still greater extent, the wood loses strength and becomes brittle. An English au- thority states that if trees are felled as soon as they are in full leaf, and al- lowed to remain undisturbed until the leaves dry up and fall oif, the timber will be found well seasoned, the leaves having exhausted all the moisture. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 35 NEW AND RARE PLANTS. E. Verdier, the celebrated Rose-grow- er of Paris, sends to The Gardener's Monthly the following list and descrip- tions of the best new Roses of the past year: HYBRID PERPETUALS, (Hybrid remontants.) Anioine Castel. — Tree vigoroias with strong erect shoots of a reddish tint, numerous dark spines, foliage with three to five leaflets round and leathery, very little serrated, and a pale green color. Flowers of medium size, very double; color bright rose or light cerise, shaded with a dark hue, and white stripes. Similar in growth as Prince Kotchoubey . Ernest Herger. — Tree very vigorous with reddish shoots and numerous short straight pink sjDines. Leaves with five dark-green leaflets with purple points. Flowers large, full, of a deep bright purple. Francis Couriin. — Tree very vigorous with strong erect dark-green shoots and numerous straight reddish spines; leaves with five leaflets, very large, of dark- green color, and but little serrated. Flowers large, full, fine cup-shape, fre- quently three top together, rarely soli- tary; outer petals large, reflexed and imbricated, color purplish cerise, out- side rose with white stripes; very fra- grant; a free and abundant bloomer and of the highest merit. John Harrison. — Tree vigorous with erect reddish shoots, long and pointed spines; leaves with five leaflets deeply serrated. Flowers very large, full, of fine cup -shape; color dark brilliant crimson strongly shaded with a velvety blackish hue; very eff'ective variety. Madame Laison Lierval. — Tree vigor- ous with very strong light-gTeen shoots; very few elongated slightly reflesed brownish spines. Leaves light-green, with five to seven leaflets deeply ser- rated. Flowers very large, very full and of fine form; color fine carmine with brilliant centre; calyx surrounded with very long sepals. A very free and con- tinuous bloomer; seedling of Victor Verdier. Miller Hayes. — Tree vigorous with erect reddish shoots and a few short brownish spines; leaves with three to five light-green leaflets and red leaf- stalks; flowers large, full, and of fine cup -shape, generally solitary, some- times two or three together; thick pet- als, color crimson with bright centre and shaded dazzling velvety red. First- rate variety; seedling of Chas. Lefevre. Pauline Talaboi. — Tree vigorous with erect light-green shoots, and very rare short, straight reddish spines; large light-green leaves with three to five leaflets deeply serrated; flowers large, full, and of fine form; color dark daz- zling rose or reddish carmine. A very free bloomer, and altogether of great merit. President Hardy. — Tree vigorous with erect reddish shoots and ii-regular rosy spines; leaves light green with three to five leaflets deeply serrated; flowers large, full, and of fine globular form, and from four to eight together; color purplish carmine. Theodore Bucheter. — Tree vigorous with erect reddish shoots, numerous brown irregular spines; leaves with five leaflets, deeply serrated, dark green; flowers large, full, and of fine form, purplish velvety violet with fiery centre. Thomas Mills. — Tree very vigorous, erect, somewhat reflexed light -green shoots, irregular short nearly straight rosy spines. Leaves with five leaflets, large, acuminated, of a dark green, and finely serrated. Flowers extra- large, full, and of fine cup-shape; color 36 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. dazzling bright rosy carmine with whit- ish stiipes; very free bloomer, and alto- gether of the greatest merit. DotTBLE Cinerarias. — Among the most striking novelties of the past year are Double Cinerarias. These have occa- sionally appeared in the hands of Eng- lish florists; but they have never suc- ceeded in fixing them so as to produce a distinct race. The more patient Ger- mans have, however, done the thing at last, and Haoge & Schmidt, the seeds- men of Erfui't, Prussia, announce that they will distribute the seeds this sea- son. They are represented to be as double as the common Pompone Chrys- anthemums, and to embrace most of the colors already known in single ones. We can imagine nothing more beautiful than such a set of improved Cinerarias will be, and we can not but regard the introduction of such novelties as these, after so many years of persevering at- tempts, as among the grandest floral tri- umphs of the age. — Gardener's Monthly. Light seems to have no effect on the respiration of Elodea canadensis, the ab- sorption being the same in the light as in the dark, but it differs from yeast in that during the diurnal respiration it gives off free oxygen. If a large quan- tity of the plant be immersed in a tol- erably small quantity of water, and sub- mitted to direct sunlight for an hour or two, numerous bubbles of gas will be liberated, and a supersaturated liquid will be obtained which may contain as much as twenty cubic centimeters (7.88 English inches nearly) of oxygen per litre, (1.7C English jjints). The man- ner of absorj^tion is the same for both plants, but in case of the Elodea the absorption is about ten times less. aEditorial (Slieaninijsi. How Arizona lost her Forests. — A legend of the Utes, for which I am in- debted to the perusal of Major Powell's MS. notes, explains the cause of the absence of woods in northern Arizona. It is not long, and there is something so inexpressibly novel in its movement, as well as in the fact of our drawing a new mythology and fresh imagery from the very heart of the continent, that I give it as it is remembered. It is call- ed "The origin of fire," and tells how once upon a time a bright spark fell from the point of a reed, upon the ground, and the nightingale picked it up in its beak and found it was fire . And the mighty chief of the Utes asked what it was, and the nightingale said it was fire. And the chief asked if there were any more in the world, and the night- ingale said, that far off in the south was a people dancing ever about a great fire, with songs and shouts. So the mighty chief of the Utes made ready, and put on a fine cap, with long eagle feathers upon it, and started for the people of the South. And, as he went, he stationed nimble runners of his tribe all the way from the land of the Utes to the Fire Peoj^le, at intervals of a mile. And, journeying, he came, after many days, to the Fire People, dancing with songs and shouts about a great fire. And he mingled with them, but they saw he was a stranger, and looked as- kant at him. But he danced and sung and shouted with them, and suddenly stooping, thrust the end of his eagle plumes in the tire, and they blazed up mightily. And the Fire People would have caught him, but he leaped over their heads and ran to the first man of his tribe, and falling exhausted, handed him the blazing torch of plumes and told him to i-un. And he ran and fell THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 37 exhausted by the second man, handing him the plumes. And so they ran, each man catching the fire plumes from the hand of the runner, until the last man brought it to the land of the Utes. And they were so rejoiced, they put the torch to the roots of a mighty tree on the edge of the forest, and shouted as it burned. But a great wind sprung up and carried the fire into the forest, and it spread in every direction , and all the woods were destroyed. And the people of the Utes prayed long and loud to the god Tawotz, and at length he sent a mighty rain, which quenched the fire. But a turtle sat upon a spark of fire and kept it alive during the rain. And this was the origin of fire. Old and New, for December. numerous varieties since obtained have been principally derived. THE DAHLIA. A correspondent of the Garden ex- plains the true origin of the Dahlia, first mentioned by Hernandez, in his History of Mexico, in 1651. But the first scientific description of the plant was given by the Abbe Cavanilles, from a specimen which flowered in Madrid, in 1790; and the Abbe named the plant after his friend, Andrew Dahl, the Swedish botanist. The Dahlia was sent to the Royal Gardens in Madrid, from the Royal Gardens in Mexico. It first flowered in Madrid in 1789, and was introduced by the Marchioness of Bute into England, in the same year. But that plant soon perished ; and the Dahlia did not reappear until 1803, when the old single variety, Coccinea, was flowered by Frazer, at Chelsea. Meanwhile, Cavanilles had sent the three varieties known in Madrid, to Paris, in 1802, and between that time and 1814, many varieties were raised. Humboldt sent home seed from Mex- ico, in 1804; and from this source the A Pretty Window Plant. — One of the best window plants, capable, as it ap- pears, of resisting almost any hardships to which plants in such circumstances are subjected, is the Ai^pidistra larida. This plant, and its variegated variety, is grown largely in France and Belgium, in windows, corridors, etc., and might with advantage be em^Dloyed hero for like purposes. — Gardener's Chronicle. Fancy Prices for Plants. — At a re- cent sale of rare plants by Messrs. Back- house, of York, England, the Country Gentleman says : " A mass of the Oncid- ium tigrinum, consisting of about thirty bulbs, sold for $150. Smaller plants or masses brought $15 to $60. A strong plant of Oncidium macranthum was sold for $45, and other plants, all of the same species, from $17 to $37. Profits of Gardening. — The results of gardening in the "Garden of Retreat for the Insane," at Utica, New York, were published by Dr. Brigham. The land was good and yearly manured, and the product was as follows on one and a fourth acres of land: 1,100 heads of Lettuce, (large), 1,400 heads of Cab- bage, 700 bunches Radish, 250 bunches Asparagus, 300 bunches Rhubarb, 14 bushels of Peas in the pod, 40 bushels of Beans, 419 dozen Sweet Corn (three plantings), 715 dozen Summer Squash, 45 dozen Squash Peppers, 756 dozen Cucumbers, 7 barrels Cucumber Pickles, 147 bushels Beets, 29 bushels Carrots, 26 bushels Parsnips, 120 bushels On- ions, 180 bushels Turnips, 35 bushels Early Potatoes, 40 bushels Tomatoes; Winter Squash, — wagon loads; 500 heads Celery— all worth $621 in Utica 38 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. market, but supplied 130 persons in the Institution with what they could con- sume, nnd only one man to do all the labor. — Gardcniyig for the South. Excellent Glue. — According to the statement of a foreign chemist, an ex- cellent i^aste may be jjrepared as fol- lows: Four parts, by weight, of glue are soaked for several hours in fifteen parts of water, and then slowly warm- ed until a perfectly clear solution is foi-med. This solution is then diluted with sixty-five parts of boiling water, and thoroughly stiiTed. In the mean- time thirty parts of starch are stirred into 200 parts of cold water, so as to form a thin milky liquid, free from lumj^s. Into this is poured the solution of glue, stii'ring continually and heat- ing. When cold, ten drops of carbolic acid are added. The paste made in this way is said to possess extraordina- ry^ adhesive power, joining leather, pa- per, pasteboard, etc. By keeping it in closed vessels, so that the water can not evaporate, it may be preserved for years. Where no great strength is desired, or- dinary flour or starch paste is used, a little carbolic acid being added to pre- vent souring. Simple Ornaments. — A pretty mantel ornament may be obtained by sus^jend- ing an acorn by a piece of thread tied around it, within half an inch of the surface of some water contained in a vase, tumbler, or saucer, and allowing it to remain undisturbed for several weeks. It will soon burst open, and small roots will seek the water; a straight and ta- pering stem, with beautiful glossy green leaves, will shoot upward, and present a very pleasing appearance. Chestnut trees may be grown in the same man- ner, but their leaves are not so beauti- ful as those of the oak. The water should be changed once a month, tak- ing care to supply water of the same warmth; bits of charcoal added to it will prevent the water from souring. If the leaves turn yellow, add one drop of ammonia into the utensil which holds the water, and they will renew their luxuriance. Another pretty ornament is made by wetting a sponge and sprinkling it with canary, hemj), and grass seeds. The sponge should be refreshed with water daily, so as to be kept moist. In a few days the seeds germinate, and the sponge will soon be covered with a mass of green foliage. — Scientific American. GuANO-WATEE FOR Plants. — The Farm- er and Gardener, in reply to a corre- spondent, says: "All gilanos are not alike in soluble proportions; hence a pound of phospho-guano will go as far as two pounds of many other brands. We use about one gallon of the former to a barrel of water. Let it remain three or four days, stimng the mixture daily. When using we add an equal quantity of water, thus taking one gal- lon of phospho-guano to two barrels of water. Guano-water must only be ap- plied to plants when in full growth, and not when they are at rest, as is the case during our warmest portion of the summer." The Iris. — It is the fate of many good plants to get set aside for novelties not near so good. The Iris has been one of these unfortunates. The varieties are very numerous, and there is no flower capable of giving more interest than a collection of these. They flower as the Hyacinth goes out, and are excellent plants to go together with them. — Gar- dener's Monthly. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 39 Asters as Decorath^e Plants. — The Flor'ist and Pomologist says that the per- ^ ennial Asters, sometimes termed Au- tumn Daisies, furnish some most valua- ble decorative plants for the open ground during autumn. Aster amellas is one of the best of them, bearing plenty of flowering stems numerously branched at the top, the flowers violet-blue; neat clumps of this dotted about shrubbery borders, or at the back of mixed beds, form most welcome masses of a very acceptable hue of color in our gardens, right up to November. A violet-colored variety of A. amellus, named bessarab- icus, is a good decorative plant also. Cutting Blossoms. — Lovers of flowers must remember that one blossom allow- ed to mature or "go to seed" injures the plant more than a dozen new buds. Cut your flowers then, all of them, be- fore they begin to fade. Adorn your rooms with them; put them on your ta- bles; send bouquets to your friends who have no flowers; or exchange favors with those who have. You will surely find that the more you cut ofi" the more you will have. All Roses after they have ceased to bloom should be cut back, that the strength of the root may go to form- ing new roots for next year. On bush- es not a seed should be allowed to ma- ture. Power of Insects. — Most of our read- ers have no doubt noticed the extraor- dinary power of insects, but Abbe Plessis seems to have been the first to measure and record this power. He attached a light box to a large horned beetle, and gradually loaded it with a weight of two and one-half pounds, and yet the insect moved it steadily over a smooth board. On comparing the load with the power, he found the former to be 315 times the latter. At the same rate a common farm-horse should draw one hundred and eigldy-one tons.— Jour- nal of the Farm. A Pretty Floral Contrast. — A cor- respondent of The Gardener's Chronicle describes a pretty scene of climbing vines in a conservatory: " One of the pretti- est floral sights that I have seen for a long time, is the result of allowing Tacsonia Van- Volxemi, Clematis Jack- manni, and Mandevillea suaveolens to grow together at their own sweet will. They were all in full bloom, and the plants having grown up the difl'erent rafters of a conservatory and met at the top of the house, the result was certain- ly a very striking contrast." Wood of the Osage Orange. — A cor- respondent, who has been experiment- ing with the wood of the Osage Orange, informs us that it takes a fine polish, and is very durable. The wood grown in Texas is found to be durable in all situations, and none more so than in fence posts. It is largely used for wag- on wheels, and the wheels made of it are said never to require a second hoop- ing. In Pennsylvania it is of slow growth, but farther south it finds a congenial climate and grows rapidly. If seed is to be sowed, the trees should be planted in clumps, in order that fer- tilization may be perfect. — Journal of the Farm. Saving Fuchsia Seed. — Mr. Cannell, the great Fuchsia-grower, says: "When the seed-pods are thoroughly ripened, partly dry them in the sun, after which cut them in halves and quarters with a moderately sharp knife, and minutely examine each part; the old self-colored ll ' I k n 40 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. varieties produce seed very freely, but tlie choice kinds very sparingly, partic- ularly the light varieties. An abun- dance of hollow seed will be found, but gooJ plump seed is about half the size of that of the pansy, and easily distin- guished and picked out." Ornamental Hedges. — Edwin Marsh, nearly a mile west of Agawam Centre, has a very handsome hedge of White Pine. This tree was phiced by Down- ing at the head of beautiful evergreens. Planted near it is a well-trimmed Hem- lock hedge, and on the grounds of Mr, Goddard, opposite, a very beautiful hedge of the American Arborvitfc. On account of its brighter, never-changing green, we had, in this case, to give our preference to the "White Pine. For dry sand}' soil, it is peculiarly adapted. — New England Homestead. Hide-bound Teees. — Trees that have long stems exposed to hot suns or dry- ing wind, become what gardeners call "hide-bound." That is, the old bark becomes indurated — can not expand — and the tree suffers much in conse- quence. Such an evil is usuall}'' indi- cated by gray lichens, which feed on the decaying bark. In these cases a washing of weak lye or of lime-water is very useful; indeed, where the bark is healthy, it is beneficial thus to wash the trees, as many eggs of insects are thereby destroyed. Moth Preventive. — The following recipe for keeping moths out of cloth- ing is a favorite in some families : Mix half a pint of alcohol, the same quan- tity of spirits of turpentine, and two ounces of camphor. Keep in a stone bottle, and shake before using. The clothes or furs should be wrapped in linen, and crumpled pieces of blotting paper, dipped in the liquid, should be placed in the box with them, so that it smells strong. This requires renewing about once a year. METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, Fob the Month Ending Dec. 31st, 1873. (Prcpiirfd for Thk Hokticiiltuiiist by Thos. Tennext, Mathematical lustrument aud ChrcmoiDCtcr-miUtur, No. 423 Washingtou Street, near the Post OlHce). BAltOMETEK. Mean height at 'J a. m 30.10 in. do 12m 30.10 do 3p. M 30.09 do (1 r. M 30.08 Greatest height, on the I7th and 'Joth at 9 a. m 30.32 Least.height, on the 4th at G P. m 29.(>7 THEEMOMETEE. ( Wilh north exposure and free from reflected heat. J Mean height at 9 a. m 47" do 12 M 61'J do 3 p. M 50° do G p. M 4S° Greatest height, on the 5th at 12 M.and 3Ist, 3 P. M. 58° Least height, on the 31x1 at 9 a. m 37° SELF-EEGISTEBING THEEMOMETEE. Mean lieight during the night 43° Greatest hi'ight, on nights of 30th and 3l8t 50^ Least height, on night of 12th 35° WINDS. North and north-east on 5 days; south and Bouth-east on 14 days; south-west on 6 days; east on 4 days; west on 2 days. WEATHEE. Clear on 3 days; variable on 7 days; cloudy on 21 days; ruin on 20 days. BAIN GAUGE. Decemberlst 0.04 inchcB. 3d. 4th . 5th. fith. 7th. 8th. 9th. 10th. I3th. 14th. 15th. IC.th. IHth. l!)th. 2lKt. 28th. 27th. 2SHh. 30th. Total 10.12 Tot.ll rain of the season xip to date 12.29 PRIITISfi OF EVERY DESCRIPTION Executed at this Office ! k tt Mir WK VALLEY OPENIN( TABLE Pf S.'/4E, 8 MILES. ■^•h THE ^VBPf^VSIOXS OF THE POIIMT DUME, BEARING E.3/4N,6[¥I1LES ON COAST SOUTH OF TODOS SANTOS BAY (LOWER CALIFORNIA ABOUT ^OO FCfT Ml|-.; W^r-.k 930 FEET HIGH. Pt FERWIIN E . '/4 SOUTH ABOUT 16 WIILES DISTANT. ^) THE AND FLORAL MAGAZINE. Vol. TV. FEBRUARY, 1874. m. 2. CINEKAKIA. BY F. A. MILLKR. But few flowering plants are more useful and give better satisfaction, than the Cineraria. One of its excellent qualities is, tliat it may be had in bloom at all times, in and out of doors, if properly managed. Another meritori- ous point is, that it furnishes a profu- sion of flowers of all shades of color, except yellow. Cinerarias are raised from the seed, which grows readily, if planted in a pot or box filled with light and porous soil. The seed should be covered very lightly, and the pot or box placed in a warm, sunny place. During cold nights it is well to protect the young plants by cov- ering them with a pane of glass. The plants begin to flower in about seven or eight months from the time the seed is sown; and by paying a little more atten- tion to this fact, we may have them in bloom whenever the flowers are most desirable. If the seed is planted every three or four months, we can have them in bloom throughout the year. This applies to their cultivation in pots in the house. If treated as house-plants, they should be thrown out after they Vol. IV.— 6. have done flowering, and young plants should take their place. It is true that by shaking the soil from the old plants, and dividing and replanting them in new soil and smaller pots, good flower- ing plants can be obtained; but this process is much more laborious and less satisfactory than the raising of new plants from the seed, except when it is desirable to cultivate a certain variety in particular. The soil for these plants should be rich, light, and porous, and be one-third well decomj^osed manure, one-thii'd sand, and one-third loam, to which may be added a little bone-dust and charcoal, which is all that is needed. Cinerarias are also very useful as gar- den plants, where they assume the char- acter of perennials in this mild climate. I have seen them in bloom constantly, through summer and winter, for three or fom" years, and showing no lack of luxu- riant growth. There is no other gar- den plant of which we can say so much, except, perhaps, the monthly blooming Pinks. At our garden we plant out all the old plants, which have done flowering and could not be dis- posed of, in the borders, and treat them the same as other hardy herbaceous plants, and they give us a large amount 42 THE CALIFORNIA HOllTICULTURIST. of flowers throup^liout tlio year. This facility of growth and blooming should make the Cineraria one of the most pop- ular plants on this coast. If cultivated in the house, Ciueraiias are very much subject to "damping off," and to the ravages of the "green fly." This can be prevented by giving plenty of fresh air, and by frequent fumigation with tobacco smoke. Watering over- head also has a very bad effect, and is ai^t to produce rot in the leaves and stems. The extremely bright and pleasing colors of the Cineraria make it a most desirable flowering jilant for the house as well as for the garden, and a fair trial is sure to bear me out in all that I have said in its favor. In Germany, a great novelty has been produced in the way of a "double Cine- raria." I have not yet seen the flower. In fact, the seed of this new acquisition has only recently been offered for sale for the first time. If this new variety proves to be what its originators claim for it, it is certainly a most valuable ad- dition to flowering plants. Causes of the Rotting of Fruit. — Ac- cording to Decaisne, the rotting of fruit is produced by two microscopic fungi, which develop in moist, confined air ; namely, Mucor mucedo and Penicillium (jlaucam, infinitely minvite germs of which are continually floating in the at- mosphere, and which attack more es- pecially any injured or abraded portion of the surface. If now, the fruit be wrapped up in cotton, or with soft tissue paper, or, still better, with waxed paper or tin foil, the introduction of these germs will be prevented, and the fruit can be kept for a long time without any apprecialjle change. RHODODENDEONS. HAnDY VARIETIES. RhODODENDEON CaTAWBI- ENSI8. Among the evergreen plants used for garden, lawn and other decorative situ- ations, where one, six, or a larger num- ber are to be used, commend us to the grand old Rhododendron. The king of the city garden, the pride of the village green, the pet flower of eveiy ten by twelve grass plat, and, grandest of all, the flowering climax of every well- stocked, elegantly decorated park. This magnificent flower is so well known, or should be to all lovers of beautiful plants, that a familiar descrip- tion of the same would scarcely seem necessary. Yet such is not the case. There are many persons, ladies and gentlemen, too, of good taste, who de- light in a well-stocked garden, who have never seen a Rhododendron in full bloom. Said a lady to me one day, ' ' I saw a very beautiful flower in full bloom in front of a gentleman's house in New Jersey the other afternoon. I wish I knew what it was. It had bright glossy leaves, gi-ew about three feet high, and had about ten short limbs, all covered with an orange shaped leaf, that looked like a leaf made from wax. From the middle of the bunches of green leaves there sprung a large pink colored flower as large as my hand, and O ! so beautiful. I do much wish I knew its name. I want to purchase one, as I never saw a more beautiful plant." This vei*y natural exclamation of the lady Avould probably find a response in very many hearts when looking upon this plant for the first time. This would be the case with any one who could spend an hour in the garden of Messrs. Hovey, near Boston. There your eyes would be delighted with specimens of this beautiful flower twelve feet in THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 43 height, ami in its season of blossom all covered with flowers. We have been told that familiarity breeds contempt. Not so with the Rhododendron. Beautiful! indeed, the more we become acquainted with the rare qualities of this valued plant of the garden the more we love its bright shining leaves, its rich and enduring flowers, and well may the term of a ''thing of beauty" be applied to it. Magnificent is a well-fitting title for the JUiododendron Cafaivbiensis. While there are many varieties of this flowering shrub which, with care, can be cultivat- ed to perfection upon the lawn and be- neath the shelter of the deepening woody borders of our gardens, we can recom- mend for hardy culture the Cataivbiensis as perfectly reliable. Plant this kind and you will have a reliable plant. And a "sure thing " in the garden is a mat- ter of much consideration to all our lady friends who love these beautiful flow- ers. This article upon the Rhododen- dron was written at the express solicita- tion of two of our lady friends, who know something about garden flowers. The B. Foaticum, and many of the hardy varieties — hybrids — will grow well beneath the shady sides of woods, but we feel that all who do not tolera- bly understand their cultivation had better confine themselves to the culture of one or two of the perfectly hardy species. There are thirty varieties of the Cataivbiensis — all hardy ; from these they can choose their plants and go to work on a half-dozen or a dozen with a good degree of confidence in ultimate success. Like the Azaleas, the Rhododendron does pretty well in ordinary garden soil, but is greatly improved in size and beau- ty of color by a skillful adaptation as near as possible to its natural soil and situations. Make them as much at home in their new home, by a judicious combination of soils, as they were be- fore they were lifted, and your work is done. There is not a more superb plant than the Rhododendron cultivated, and our earnest plea is for our pet plant. It can be planted in pots if you desire it, and you can keep it in the greenhouse in the winter and bring it out in the spring to beautify the plat or garden. Ama- teurs and others desirous of trying their hand Avith three or five of these plants, can obtain perfectly hardy varieties from any of our seedsmen. If we could have but one " garden pet," our choice would be the Rhodo- dendron. It is hardy, vigorous of con- stitution, not liable to insect attacks, pos- sesses beauty and symmetry of growth, and when in flower it pays you a hun- dred times over for the care you bestow upon it. We have often felt surprise at the lack of appreciation this flower seemed to command, and were thus led seriously to consider why it was thus sparsely cultivated. Perhaps a promi- nent reason may be found in the fact that considerable care and attention is required to make an appropriate bed, soil, and situation for the growth of this plant. In hopes of giving our lady friends and, incidentally, others a few reliable hints as to how to prepare a bed for the Rhododendron, I will tell them just how I made one for myself last week, and they are at liberty to improve upon my plan as much as they please. If our friends have patience sufficient to in- duce them to make such a bed as we describe, and sufficient faith in our ex- perience, they will have as good a show of Rhododendrons as any of their neigh- bors. First, this plant, to thrive well, re- quires a deep, well-prepared soil. Be- u THE CALIFORNIA HOKTICULTURIST. longing to the family Erieacew, its root- lets are exceedingly delicate, and are always found very fine. Now, whenev- er you find these delicate rootlets dry, from any cause whatever, you may throw your plant away at once, for however green its leaves may appear your plant is dead. On what are called the most "unseem- ly jjlaces" you can make your plant bed, as I did mine. The hillside upon which I have prepared a bed for the next spring planting faces the south- east. I first determined the size which I designed for my bed. This I staked out in outline, which I think a good plan, using sharpened sticks six inches long. The bed is of an oval form, in the longest measurement ten feet, in breadth, or shortest, five to six feet. Carefully cutting the sod with a sod cutter, I removed all the same from the top of the bed. This being done, I re- moved the earthy loam and placed it outside the excavation for future use. Then I removed the gravel to the dejith of four feet; this gravel you will need to make the side of the lower embankment of your bed, for I made the upper side of my bed four feet below the level of the sod in its original form. From this level, to be determined by the circum- stances of the case, by those who follow these suggestions, I, in making my bed, made a level bed, or plateau. This was the foundation, or pit, of my bed. Now comes the filling-up process. On a side hill like the one in question you will not often need much artificial drainage. You will, as I did, prepare for a too rapid drainage, which is death to your plant, by covering the whole bottom of your pit with pine needles, or oak leaves, or fine meadow hay, to the depth of from one to two feet. Now pass back again into the pit your loam, and your leaves are fixed, and should be trodden down to make what you have already placed there about six inches deep from the bottom. Now you are ready to place the old sod soil — the soil that should compose the bed, and that which I used was a mixture of one part peat, or well rotted leaf mold, one part of rich loam, and one part sharp sand. Let these be most thoroughly mixed, and let lay in a heap three or six days ; then fill up all the space left of your bed, level with the former brow of the hill, and outwardly forming a level at the top of the embankment of some two or three feet, which should be sodded to prevent the earth of your bed from sliding down hill. Now you can, after doing this, leave your bed over the win- ter, and in April, on some bright warm day, spade the whole over preparatory to planting out your Rhododendrons. You can always procure good plants from reliable nurserymen. If you want the cheapest of plants there are always humbugs enough to cheatyou outof your money. Having obtained what you be- lieve to be good plants, set them say from one foot to fourteen inches distant in rows lengthwise of your bed, or, a general i-ule adopted by some landscape gardeners is, "so that they shade the ground by their foliag6 just touching each other." This is as good a rule, perhaps, as can be given, and I adopt it whenever I set out grounds. If possi- ble to obtain, I prefer to mulch, say tw^o inches in depth, over the plants as soon as set out, with ground tan-bark, always easily obtained, and there can be nothing better. Now let your bed alone, unless the Slimmer should be extremely dry. Two copious waterings with the water-pot or hose will be all-sufficient, and nine chances out of ten you will not need any water. Because why? You have set out your bed as you should have THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 45 done, and they will j)robably live and thrive. As a protection from frost and cold in winter, we iise boughs of cedar, hem- lock, or pine, the ends well sharpened, and a crow-bar to make holes to receive them, and the boughs firmly set about the bed is sufficient to shelter them from the coldest weather. More of these plants are killed from sunshine in winter than from the intense cold. Pro- tect them wellfr'om the iviMer' sun. In the course of time, as your plants grow in size, you will of course make new beds by removing from the old bed every other plant year by year, until you have left one or two very large plants, whose value, singly, would pay a large percentage of time, care, and the mon- ey expended. — Forest and Stream. INCKEASED DEMAND FOR CALIFOENIA TREES AND PLANTS IN EUROPE. OoR Flannels. — The value of flannel next the skin cannot be overrated. It is invaluable to persons of both sexes, and all ages, in all countries, in all cli- mates, at every season of the year, for the sick and the well — in brief, I can not conceive of any circumstances in which flannel next the skin is not a com- fort and a source of health. It should not be changed from thick to thin be- fore the settled hot weather of the sum- mer, which in our Northern States is not much before the middle of June, and often not before the first of July, And the flannels for the summer must not be three-quarters cotton, but they must be all woolen, if you would have the best protection. In the British army and navy they make the wearing of flannel a point of discipline. During the hot season the ship's doctor makes a daily examination of the men at unexpected hours, to make sure that they have not left ofl: their flan- nels.— Dio Lewis in To-Day . The business of collecting seeds of trees and plants indigenous to the Pa- cific Coast has expanded at a surprising rate, during the last three years, in re- sponse to orders from Europe, and at certain seasons of the year furnishes remuneration, through arduous labor, for hundreds of people. One firm in San Francisco, who are special dealers in tree and shrub seeds, have their rep- resentatives in Oregon, Washington Territory, California, Nevada, and even in the heart of Arizona, from whom are received valuable consignments of seeds at stated periods, generally in the fall and winter months. The mountain tree seeds of this coast, especially those of California, are deservedly poj^ular abroad, on account of the beauty of the trees and the comparative ease and rapidity with which they grow and ma- ture. The procurement of these seeds is always attended with a great deal of hard work and not a little hazardous ad- venture. The gatherer must possess a certain amount of botanical knowledge, both theoretical and practical, as well as a fair share of vim and muscle. His calling often brings him to the very summit of lofty and rugged mountains, where no other footstep, save his own and those of his associates, are known; along giddy trails, across mountain tor- rents, over treacherous snow-banks, on the verge of leaning crags inaccessible to anyone but an exj)erienced mount- ain climber; in fact, wherever the Fir, Spruce, Pine, and Cedar abound, he must go, in order to secure his harvest of seeds. These venturesome men of the mountains seldom come within the actual confines of civilization, and more rarely reach the bustling cities, or even the large towns. They learn to love 46 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. the grand old mountains they roam about, and after a few years have no de- sire to take up a permanent residence at any point near the sea-leveh It was the good fortune of the writer to meet one of these men of the mountains, an intelligent and adventurous young fel- low, a few days since, and hear from his own lijjs accounts of his various ex- peditions after seeds. With his father and several brothers, he removed to the valley of the Yosemite in 18G7, and still makes his home there. It was during that year that the flood occurred which caused the only material change in the appearance of the valley that has been known since its discovery by the whites. Up to that time the bed of the valley was covered by a beautiful greensward that stretched as a carpet from end to end. The heavy fall of snow, melting in the spring, came booming down the canyon, in the form of a bread sheet of water, bringing with it particles of dis- integrated rock, and a debris that cut up and covered the grass and left the bed comparatively barren. Regarding the collection of seeds, the mountaineer said that his party, numbering four or five white men and fifteen Indians, who were provided with thirty horses and mules, made its excursions in the fall, generally occupying three weeks for the round trip, though at times protracting the absence to a couple of months. The cones are cut from the trees with prun- ing-knives attached to long poles. The pastoral suggestiveness of these imj^le- ments, which greatly resemble in ap- pearance the shepherd's crook, is dissi- pated by the sight of sundry bowie-knives and revolvers distributed about the per- sons of the bearers, and. the ponderous Kentucky rifles, in hand or slung across the packs upon the animals. One of these trips netted live hundred sacks of cones. After the cones are gathered, they are often exposed to the sun for three weeks, or a month, according to their condition, though at times they riijen in a few days. The ripening of the cones to a nicety requires consider- able botanical knowledge on the part of the oi^erator. If he makes a mistake in his calculations, and fails to remove the seeds at the proper time, he will find them worthless. And here a ques- tion of honor arises. He could send the seeds to market and sell them as be- ing healthy without fear of immediate detection. But eventually the fraud would be detected. A few years ago, certain persons, either through ignor- ance or indifference, palmed off a lot of inferior California seeds that never ma- tured, and thereby worked a serious injury to the business. Some time elapsed before confidence could be re- stored among the seed dealers abroad, on account of the swindle, and of course the then growing demand abated. Un- der favorable circmstances, the trade has brightened up, as already stated, and orders are now pouring in thick and fast. The mountaineer exijatiated upon this point at great length, and evinced an irrepressible enthusiasm in his call- ing. The i^arty of which he is a member ranges from the Big-tree Grove, in Mar- iposa, to the eastern base of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, at altitudes from 4,000 to 13,000 feet above the level of the sea. The Pacific Coast is constantly yield- ing up botanical treasures, and attract- ing the attention of the scientific world. The parterres of lovely flowers upon our hills and mountains are not appreciated until one has been abroad, and visited the gardens of Europe. In England, and in several countries on the conti- nent, wild flowers from this State, where they are found in boundless profusion, are cultivated under glass, and nurtured THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 47 as botanical novelties. There are seven- teen species of the Lupine in California, indigenous to the soil, and other wild flowers in j^roportion. Among the Cali- fornia plants held in high esteem by the Europeans, is the Ceanofhus, or, "The Beauty of the Sierra," a charming flow- er, found in the mountains, as its name would imply, and also on the hills to the west of the city. The California Pitcher-plant, differing materially from the Pitcher-plant of the Eastern States, is also prized abroad as a novelty. Its leaves are in the form of tubes, and will hold water. Another popular plant is the Scoliopus Bigeloivii, a plant dis- covered by the Mexican Boundary Com- mission, and named in honor of one of its members. This is a great botanical curiosity. It grows to the height of eighteen inches, has large green leaves, spotted with maroon, and bears purple flowers. Among the tree seeds in demand among the Europeans are those of the Sequoia gigantea, or Wellingtonia gigan- tea, in compliment to the late Duke of Wellington, which is best known as the Big Tree of California. The English naturalist Lobb is supposed by many to have first met with the tree near the source of the Stanislaus River, in Cala- veras County, though other writers at- tribute its discovery to Douglass in 1831 ; but perhaps the most probable state- ment is the one generally believed in California, and is, that a company of miners on a prospecting tour came acci- dentally upon the Calaveras group. In 18G5 Mr. Sonntag sold two pounds of the seeds of this tree in one of the Ger- man States, at the rate of $125 per pound. Other favorites are, the Finiis Jlexilis, a hardy tree, found at the height of 13,000 feet; the Pinus insignis, a lovely grass-green Pine; the Gupressus macrocarpa, an evergreen; the Thuja gigantea, the gigantic Arbor Vitre, alias Libocedrus decurrens, a noble tree, with a straight and very robust stem ; in color the foliage is a remarkably bright green, and the branches are long, flat, and frond-like; and many other Firs, Pines, Cedars, Cypresses, etc. The need of a good work on the Botany of the Pacific Coast has long been felt; and in this connection, we are pleased to learn that Professor Brewer, of Yale College, who was associated with Clarence King dur- ing the geological survey, is writing a book devoted exclusively to this sub- ject.— »S'. F. Bulletin. FRUITS — ON WHAT DO THEIR QUALI- TIES DEPEND? BY E. J. HOOPER. I am aware that this is a question which no person can answer, involving as it does so many considerations, and so many debatable points, which await a vast amount of inquiry before they can be determinately answered. Such, however, constitute no solid ground for avoiding an investigation. Our Horti- cultural and Pomological Societies in this State, conferring as they certainly do great benefits on the public, are not in the habit, at their meetings, of doing as much good in this respect as they undoubtedly might. They do not seem to be in the habit of appointing com- mittees whose duty should be, among other things, to judge of the correct nomenclature, character, qualities, etc., of those fruits which are, or ought to be, brought before them for such pur- poses. If they would attend to this more than they do, they would be ren- dering the State valuable service. No man, however experienced, but would have his mind enlarged by attentively perusing the statistical and other in- 48 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. formation that such reports wouki con- tain. I verily had thought that I knew all about the "Winter Nelis Pear, a great favorite of mine for years, as it should also be of the public in general, but I could not but feel that I had acquired interesting information in comparing the various conditions, both above and below ground, which certain exhibitors at the late Horticultural Fair of last fall in this city furnished me. Added to this, there was the verifying of my own ojiinions as founded upon my own ex- perience. I do hope that those culti- vators who continue to exhibit at our agricultural fairs, or attend regular meetings, whether monthly or weekly, will get into the habit of carefully re- porting a few of the main conditions, as well as the correct names, under which some of their fruits are pro- duced, and that the horticultural com- mittees will report the same to the peo- ple. No man can put such information to better use than really good orchard- ists, gardeners, and fruitists — men expe- rienced in such things. There is no spoiling such men with crude notions; and after carefully digesting the reports, the above named committees are in a capital position to sum up the evidence, and, as Burns says, "prent it." On what conditions, then, does the quality of fruits depend? Let me first state what conditions are inimical to quality in the average of fruits. The ripening may be too much hurried; again, ripening in some cases is arrested through low temperatures, as, for in- stance, in the climate of San Francis- co, and other lands near the ocean; also, excess of root moisture ; humidity in the air, (generally rather uncommon in Cali- fornia); by gross and succulent growths; or by deficiency of light through neg- lected pruning, etc. ; or stagnant air through the want of a due circulation; and lastly, by the attacks of insects. Now, these remarks, although apply- ing, in some cases, almost exclusively to the j)i'eservation of in-door fruits, I in- tend to offer in such a shape as shall be common to out-of-door jjroductions. A forced or hurried ripening, whether occasioned in-doors or out, is generally antagonistic to high qualities. This may be particularly observed in Peach- es and Melons, and is doubtless the reason why fine-looking fruits at our exhibition tables sometimes do not pos- sess those high qualities which their appearance and kind promise. We also know, that in hot climates and loca- tions, many of our fruits become vapid and worthless; but Nature has provided special kinds and adapted them to the climate and asj^ect. It is here necessa- ry to observe, that an over-slow or re- tarded ripening is, in some cases, pre- judicial; and this is perhaps most mani- fest in some of our Pears, which, if kept much beyond their natural ripen- ing period, sometimes assume the char- acter of jDctrifactions. Excess of root moisture is to be avoid- ed. Thorough drainage and a cautious use of irrigation are the means within our reach to avert this evil. Fruit- bearing plants are apt, like manj'^ of the animal creation, to prove gluttonous, especially when there is a heavy draw on the system; and in the ripening pro- cess, where very high flavor is desired, we do not need so much water. It is the high and perfect elaboration and as- similation of the stores of the plants that is to be desired. Nevertheless, it may be laid down as an axiom in fruit-ripening, that the foliage must be in a perfectly healthy condition when the fruit is ripening, or undergoing that change which forms a crisis in its histo- ry. Thus we find, that if melons — it matters not of what kind — have decay- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 49 ing foliage ■when the fruit is turning for ripeness, the flavor is sure to be deficient, and the eye part becomes spong}'. It therefore becomes necessa- ry, with all thin-foliaged fruits, (which of course are liable to sudden and pro- fuse perspirations), to keep up as much moisture at the root as will sustain a healthy foliage. Too much ah' moist- ure is of course not desirable; but we can seldom complain of this in our cli- mate. AVe will now come to succulent growth, which, in most cases, is a foe to intensity of flavor. The Peach is at once a good instance. How is it that we seldom obtain such large and fine Peaches from young and gross trees as we do from those arrived at maturity? Simply because the growth at extreme points being so exuberant, much of the collateral and subordinate wood is rob- bed for the sake of this great impulse. Pinching these robbers, therefore, by equalizing the sap, causes the inferior portions to receive a more regular sup- ply. In short, these remarks apply to almost every kind of fruit, especially to those of rapid and impulsive gi'owth. Thus, we know that it is a common practice to stop or pinch vines. Melons, Cucumbers, etc., all of which are of rapid growth. Deficiency of light is the next consid- eration as concerns flavor and quality. It is well known that both flavor and color in fruits and vegetables can only be obtained through the influence of a liberal amount of solar light. We have very little, however, to complain of in this our sunny clime. But, at any rate, it becomes us to avail ourselves of eveiy cultural means, and not to place the plant or tree in such a position as not to receive with facility whatever light oc- curs. But not only is flavor in fruits dependent on a liberal amount of light; Vol. IV.— 7. their size and general character are also particularly concerned. Who has not noticed the inferior character of fruits, such as Apples, Pears, and other ordi- nary fruits, in the interior of badly pruned or neglected trees ? Freedom from insects is indispensable to flavor in fruits. Happily, we are not greatly troubled in California in this particular. Yet I learn that the apple- worm has been discovered in some parts of the country, and we shall be likely soon to import other noxious insects with trees, grafts, seeds, etc. Jute in Paper-jiaking. — The use of Jute as a paper material will greatly in- crease the commercial value of this val- uable fibre. The Dundee Advertiser, (Scotland), on its appearance printed on Jute paper, after apologizing for its transparency and thinness, says: "A remarkable fact is, that it is the product of Mr. Watson's second experi- ment, and if we can attain to such a result on only a second trial there need be no fear with respect to further ex- periments. The thinness and transpar- ency will easily be remedied, as there is nothing to prevent paper made from Jute being of any degree of thickness and opaqueness. It may be explained that this sample is made almost entirely from old Jute bagging. We propose to have samples made entirely from Jute fibre. To some extent Jute bag- ging and waste have been used by pa- per makers for several years, mixed with other materials; and when we men- tion that nearly 50,000,000 Jute bags were exported last year — the demand for home requirements being also very large — it will be seen how large a quan- tity of manufactured Jute there is to work upon, especially as bagging is on- ly one class of the goods made from this material." 50 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. FOEESTEY. An "International Congress of Land and Forest Culturists," held at Vienna in Sei^teniber, presided over by the Austri- an Minister of Agriculture, passed reso- lutions petitioning the Austrian govern- ment to take measures for inaugurating international treaties Avith other Euro- pean states, intended to secure birds useful in agriculture; another series de- claring the lack of scientific basis for land and forest culture, and the neces- sity of official publications of exact sta- tistical comparative data illustrating the status and progress of each country in these departments of industry; and a third, relative to the necessity of action toward forest preservation, as follows: "1. We recognize the fact that, in or- der to effectually check the continually increasing devastation of the forests which is being carried on, interna- tional agreements are needed, espe- cially in relation to the preservation and proper cultivation (for the end in view) of those forests lying at the sources and along the courses of the rivers, since it is known that, through their irrational destruction, the results are great decrease of the volume of wa- ter, causing detriment to trade and com- merce, the filling up of the river's bed with sand, caving in of the banks, and inundations of agricultural lands along its course. " 2. We further recognize it to be the mutual duty of all civilized lands to pre- serve and to cultivate all such forests as are of vital importance for the well- being — agricultural and othei-wise — of the land, such as those on sandy coasts, on the sides and crowns as well as on the steep decHvities of mountains, on sea-coasts and other exposed places, and that international principles should be laid down, to which the owners of such protecting or ' guardian forests ' be sub- ject, thus to preserve the land from damage. 3. We recognize further that we have not at present a sufficient knowledge of the evils (disturbances in nature) which are caused by the devastation of the forests, and therefore that the efforts of legislators should be directed to caus- ing exact data to be gathered relating thereto." It was stated, in the course of the pro- ceedings, that the Rhine, the Oder, the Elbe, and other European rivers, have lower water -marks than formerly; at Altenbruch, in Hanover, ten Hamburg feet lower in 1857 than a half century before; that part of the kingdom of Wurtemburg had been reduced to com- parative barrenness by the felling of trees; that droughts were increasing in severity in Hungary, a fact popularly attributed to the deforestation of the country. The case of the region near Trieste, on the Adriatic, was particularly refer- red to. It was stated that five hundred years ago a heavy foi-est covered that region, which was destroyed by the Ve- netians for the purpose of securing pile- timbers and lumber for commerce, and that after the ti-ees were felled the un- protected soil was washed away by storms, and the whole face of the coun- try became a dreary waste. In August last we i^assed through that region, and noted it was one of the most desolate views presented by any countiy. The surface far away from the coast was completely covered with ledges and rough bowlders, was almost destitute of soil, and the heat radiated from the rocks w-as intolerable. In jjarts of this broad belt some millions of Olive-trees have been planted by the Austrian gov- ernment, the soil for the purpose being transiJorted in baskets in some places. THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 51 It is stated that the rains, which twenty- five years ago ceased to fall here, are again appearing to refresh the scene. Similar statements are made relative to local ameliorations by forest planting on the coasts of Gevmanj^ in Uj^per Egj'pt, and at Ismaila, and in other countries. — Monthly Report of the De- partment of Agriculture. FICUS ELASTICA— CAOUTCHOUC— GUM- ELASTIC OR INDIA-RUBBEK TEEE. BY THE EDITOE. This tree belongs to class 33, or- der 2, Polygamia Dioeoia of Linnajus, and Vttsculares Dicotyledonoi Urlicce of Jussieu. It is a handsome evergreen, and is a native of the East Indies. It is by no means difficult to propa- gate, for which purpose cuttings of the ripe wood are necessary. These should be about two inches in length with a pair of leaves to each; the stem should be split d(;wu the centre, and the cuttings laid on the greenhouse shelf for a few hours to wilt. They should then be planted sepai'ately in pots filled with light sandy soil, the cutting to be plunged to the depth of an inch and secured by one of the leaves to a small stick to prevent its be- coming loose. The pot should be plac- ed in a warm corner of the greenhouse. The Ficus elastica is valuable for in-door decoration and for conservatories dur- ing the summer season, but requires rather more than the ordinary green- house temperature to keep it in health during the winter months, at which time it is essential that the plants be kept rather dry. A vei'v handsome speci- men of this interesting tree adorns the conservatories at Woodward's Gardens, San Francisco, which collection is re- plete with choice typical plants that render it a most valuable field of study for the botanical student. Caoutchouc is found associated with various essential oils and resinous mat- ters in the milky juice of the plants, and is procured from sundry species of Ficus, as Ficus elastica, F. radala, F. elliptica, and F. prinoides, by wounding the plants. A kind of caoutchouc, call- ed gutta percha, imported from Singa- pore and Borneo, is procured from Iso- nandria Gutta, one of the Sapotacece. Balata gum is also an elastic gum, ob- tained from the Mimusops belata, which is indigenous to British Guiana, where it attains large dimensions. This gum is of an intermediate character between India-rubber and gutta percha, as it possesses the elasticity without the in- tractibility of the India-rubber, and the ductility without the brittleness of i^ure gutta percha. It is employed as an in- sulating medium for telegraphic pur- poses. Many of the Eaphorbiacece , As- clepidacece, Apocynaceoe, Artocarpacece, and Pap)ayacece contain caoutchouc or gum -elastic. The principal supply, however, of this gum is obtained from Siphonia Brasiliensis, which is a com- mon tree in the forests of Para, Brazil. The genus Siphonia belongs to the Euphorbiaceae , and consists of some half dozen species, of which one is the H. elas- tica, a native of French Guiana, and the remainder of the Amazon and Rio Negro districts of Brazil. They are called Seringa - trees by the Brazilians, from the Portugese word seringa — a syringe, for the making of which article the caoutchouc was first used. The ge- neric name derived from the Greek, siphon, has reference to the same use. The i- pecies are trees varying from twen- ty-five to seventy, or upwards of a hun- dred feet in height, and all contain a milky juice in more or less abundance, though they do not all yield caoutchouc 52 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. of p^ood quality, tliat from some species being brittle. Their leaves consist of three entire leaflets radiating from the top of a long stalk, and are clustered towards the end of the branches; and their flowers are boi'ne in loosely branch- ed panicles, with numerous little branch- lets consisting of a few male flowers and a female at the top; both sexes have a bell-shaped five-toothed or five-parted calyx, and no corolla, the males con- taining a central stamen-column bear- ing five or ten anthers in one or two se- ries or whorls some distance below the apex, and the females a three-celled ovary bearing a more or less three-lobed stigma with or Avithout a short stjde. Their fruit is a rather large capsule, composed of three one-seeded pieces, which split in halves when ripe. The raw seeds are poisonous to man and to quadrupeds, but macaws eat them greedily, and they are excellent bait for fish; long boiling, however, deprives them of their poison, and renders them veiy palatable. As we said before, the bulk of the caoutchouc exported from Para, whence the chief supply is derived, is obtained from S. Brasiliensis, which is the one common in the forests of the province of Para; but that brought down to Para from the upper Amazon and Rio Negro is divided from S. lutea and S. brevifolia. These three species are slender smooth- stemmed trees averaging one hundred feet in height. The Para species, how- ever, yields the greatest abundance of caoutchouc, Europeans first became acquainted with caoutchouc in the early part of last century, and its botanical history was made known by M. de la Condamine in 173G; but it is only within the last forty or fifty years that it has become such an important article in our manufactures and commerce. It exists in the tree in the form of a thin white milk, and is obtained by making incis- ions in tlie trunk, from which it exudes and is collected in little earthen vessels, and afterward converted into the black homogeneous elastic mass familiar to us as India-rubber, by pouring the milk upon molds and immediately holding them over the dense smoke caused by burning the nuts of the Urucuri Palms [AUnlea excelsa and Cocuscoronata) until it is sufficiently hard to bear another coating, when the process is repeated until the requisite thickness is obtained. The mold is then removed. Formerly these molds were always in the form of shoes and bottles, and hence one of the kinds of caoutchouc is known com- mercially as bottle-rubber; but they are now frequently shaped something like battledores for folding linen, only thin- ner. In 1863, G5,649 cwts. of caout- chouc were imported into Great Britain. The belt of land extending around the globe, from 500 miles north to 500 miles south of the equator, abounds in these trees producing caoutchouc. They can be tapj)ed for twenty succes- sive years without injuiy. In their na- tive forest they stand so close that one man can gather the sap of eighty in a day, each tree yielding on an aver- age three tablesj)oonfuls daily. Forty- three thousand of these trees have been counted in a tract of country' of eight superficial miles in extent. There are more than one hundred and fifty manu- factories of this material in Europe and America, employing between seventy and eighty thousand operatives, and using more than ten million pounds per annum; yet such is the extent of the field of produce, that however consid- erably the demand may increase, there will always be sufficient of caoutchouc to meet it. Tropical fruit is now free of duty. THE CALIFORNIA HOBTICULTURIST. 53 THE PLUM AND THE PRUNE. There is, we believe, no other of our more common fruits that can be made from year to year so certainly profitable as the Plum in its numerous varieties. As an early table and dessert fruit it is always in demand. As we have no cur- culio to mar the fruit in any stage of growth, it is always perfect. It can be dried upon the stone with perfect as- surance that no insect is inclosed; or the fruit can be stoned and then dried. It is one of the most certain fruits grown, and the most abundant upon the tree. While the Grape requires eve- ry year a large amount of labor in the pruning and general culture to obtain a crop, the Plum or Prune scarcely re- quires the touch of the knife. The dried product commands nearly as high a price per pound in New York as Raisins, the present quotation being for California Prunes, from twenty to twenty-five cents per pound. They are a fruit very easily managed; from the picking or gathering — for they can be shaken from the tree without injury — to the packing away of the dried fruit, the whole process is simple and easy. Some of the larger and soft-meated varieties, as table fruit, need a more careful handling, and should be picked from the tree; but the smaller, lighter kinds can be shaken and caught on the canvas laid upon the ground. The rather dry tough-pulped German Prune is of this character, and yet with the finest of these the utmost care is taken in the picking and handling in order to preserve the bloom, which adds so much to their merchantable appearance. There is not that extreme care or nicety required in the drying process as with Raisins, and they can be dried nearly as well upon a prepared bed of black soil, in our climate, as by any ar- tificial process. Excellent results, how- ever, have been obtained l)y the Alden process of fruit drying, which turns out a product perfectly unexceptionable. There would seem to be hardly a limit to the extent to which Prune growing and curing could be carried on in Cali- fornia, with certain and profitable re- sults. Our adobe soils, not entirely congenial to the production of many of our finer fruits, are the very best for large, perfect and sure crops of Plums and Prunes. We believe it would be one of the best investments in fruit growing that can be made, if, having adobe lands, the owner would turn his attention to the planting extensively of the Plum and Prune, and now is just the time to make the purchase of trees. — S. F. Chronicle. Orange Culture in Florida. — As evi- dence of what has been done in Orange culture in the State, we cite a few in- stances. Dummitt's grove, on Indian River, is perhaps the finest in the State. It cost its projirietor to take care of it last year, $1,000, and yielded 000,000 Oranges, for which he was paid $11,000. This grove has 3,000 trees, which, with proper care, would average 3,000 Or- anges each, and give an annual income of $50,000 to $75,000. H. L. Hart's grove, at Palatka, yields him an income of $15,000 to $20,000 per annum. Ar- thur Ginn's grove, at Mellonville, of 1,100 trees, pays him $12,000 to $15,000 yearly, and is worth $100,000. Besides these groves there are a great number of splendid promise; but having been planted of late years, the incomes de- rived from them are as yet of little mo- ment. Mr. DeBarry, of New York, has a grove, near Enterprise, of 20,000 trees. Mr. Charles S. Brown, of New York, has one opposite Palatka of 1,200 trees; 54 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. and Mr. James Patterson, of Toronto, lias a grove on Bauaua River of 8,000 trees. — Falatka {Fa.) Herald. GLACIAL ACTION UPON THE PACIFIC COAST. BY PROF. GEO. DAVIDSON, U. S. COAST SURVEY. In May last, I read a paper before the California Academy of Science s,up- on the terraces that disconnectedly bor- der on our sea-coast from latitude twen- ty-six or seven to Behring Strait, and Avith most of which I have been more or less familiar since 185G. These coast- terraces, or jilateaus — the mesas, or ta- bles of old Spanish navigators and the late Spanish inhabitants — have general- ly been supposed to mark the ancient sea-levels, and to have been brought to view by an elevation of the continental shores. Some few of the smaller mesas, or terraces, composed of sand or gravel, may have been formed under the sea and subsequently elevated; but in near- ly all such cases we must suppose the elevation to have been irregular and sudden. But those that exhibit, on an extended scale, level plateaus of rock which have every degree of inclination and contortion of stratification, and an infinite variety of texture, can not have been so wrought by the agency of wa- ter alone. Other forces, more powerful and more uniform and constant in ac- tion, shaped these flat -topped rocky benches ; and the forces, if more than one, abraded the present continental line of our coast and cut through the western part of the Santa Monica range of mountains, so as to form the north- ern tier of the Santa Barbai'a islands. Much of the sharp lines of this abrasion has been obliterated by subsequent causes, principally by water from pre- cipitation, alternations of heat and cold, and the action of the waves. * * * The upheaval of the continental shores by subterranean action can not produce such terraces and plateaus. If the shores of the Pacific were to-day to be raised, say 200 or 600 feet, we know from the contour of the bottom border- ing it, that such results would not be one of the consequences. The action of the water will not account for them. Whether by "continual dropping" or by storms, it first wears away the soft and more friable parts, leaving the harder; it destroys shores by undermin- ing, and then grinding it, leaves irreg- ular jagged surfaces. These ii-regular surfaces, if upheaved above the level of the sea, would not wear away regularly by the weather; the inequalities would in time be filled by disintegrated mate- rial, but the surface of the rock would not bear the impress of a jjlaning-ma- chine. We must be guided in a great measure by experience, and judging by our knowledge of present local glacial action, I think we can appeal to the ac- tion of ice, moving slowly but surely, as a great planing or molding machine ; its lines of movement perhaps controlled by masses and elevations of land not now existing as such, and by forces no longer acting on such a scale. We may suppose a great ice-belfto have existed contiguous to the continent and moving parallel with it, and existing at the same period with the ice-sheet that covered the continent or the lower part thereof. The mechanical efiects of this belt may be those we see exhibited upon the isl- ands and the general coast-line; the effects of the latter in the gorges open- ing upon the shores in the interior val- leys, and on the mountain flanks when at right angles to the coast-line. Iron nails in a flower-vase will aid to keep the water sweet and the flowers fresh. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 55 EPIPHYLLUM. BY P. A, MILLEB. The EpiphyUitm is a genus of Cactus frequently met with in greenhouses and conservatories, and by some popularly known as the "Lobster Cactus," and by others as the "Fuchsia Cactus." The former name originated undoubt- edly from the shape of the flower, which resembles the lobster, (particularly in the varieties of recent introduction); while the name Fuchsia Cactus is easily traced to the graceful flowers which, like Fuchsias, are pending from the ter- minal branches. All the Epiphyllums are natives of Brazil, where they are found abundantly growing upon the trunks of trees, like Orchids. One of the oldest varieties, and cul- tivated most extensively, is U. Russelli- anum, which is readily distinguished from all the others by its straight and regular flowers, the petals being dis- tribvited in a regular manner. The col- or of the flower is a beautifvil, vivid purple-crimson. Another old variety is the E. friinca- lum, which bears the flowers resembling "lobsters," one side of the exj^anded flower being much larger than the other. Of this species, some very fine varie- ties have been produced, and are prom- ising to become extremely popular. The flowers of these new varieties are much richer in color, and jDresent a number of shades, such as orange, crimson, purple, scarlet, pink, salmon, and violet, with white stamens. Last spring we imported the follow- ing varieties, which are now in full bloom, and have been so for the past two months. They are admired by ev- eryone who sees them; and I consider them of the best class of winter flower- ing plants — showy and pleasing : E. album violaceiim, violet and white. E. lateritium album, crimson and white. E. roseam amabile, rosy crimson. E. Euckerianum, crimson. E. salmonianum, salmon color. E. grandiflorum marginatum, salmon, with white. E. grandiflorum riibrum, vivid crimson. E. tricolor, orange, crimson, and white. E. violaceum grandijlorum, violet and crimson. F. spec-labile, rosy crimson, white edge. All of these are robust growers, and will flower when very young. With us they have done much better than could have been reasonably expected. As to their cultivation, I must can- didly say that they have not received any attention from us. They seem to thrive well in any soil; they are satis- fied with very small pots; and they may be placed in almost any locality in our climate, and will not fail to flower abundantly. Only one thing should be borne in mind, which is, to water them freely while the buds are forming, and until they have done flowering, after which period they may be watered more sparingly. Unlike other Cacti, they require more moisture, and are not easily hurt by the frequent application of water; yet it seems necessary to pro- vide for good drainage in the bottom of the flower-pot, by filling up one-fourth of the pot with broken pieces of crock. The best soil for them seems to be a light and porous mold, although we have them in excellent condition in common loam mixed with a small quan- tity of coarse sand and well-decomposed stable manure. The Epiphyllums are propagated with- out any trouble. Any of the branches taken off the plant when the flowering season is over, and inserted slightly in sand, will readily strike root within two or three weeks, and arc likely to flower 56 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. witliin a yenr. What more could pos- sibly bo required of a plant to make it one of the most popular and most de- sirable ? Among the plants we recently im- ported were two Epiphyllums grafted upon Fereskia stock, the trunks of which are about nine inches in height. Un- doubtedly much finer specimens can be obtained in this way, and a stronger growth may be expected; but as there is no Pereskia stock to be obtained on this coast, we can not expect to work up- on it; and instead, the stronger-growing Cereus may be used as stock to graft upon. I am convinced that fine speci- mens may be grown in this manner within a short time, producing a very large quantity of flowers, and I certainly think this modus operandi well worthy of a trial. A PLANT STAND. The lack of a desirable jDlace to keep plants often prevents the pleasure of raising them. They must have light, and air, and sunshine, and it is not al- waj^s convenient to devote the brightest windows to their occupancy. If kej)t on the ledges, they are in danger of be- ing chilled on a frosty night; and it is a tax to be compelled to move the heavy pots every time the' thermometer drops. A flower stand of some sort that can be readily moved from window to window is therefore a necessity. The old-fash- ioned wooden ones are clumsy, heavy, and take up too much room. The mod- ern wire frames are pretty and light ; but one of moderate size costs ten or twelve dollars, which is a great deal to put in the stand when we wish to put it in the flowers. We saw something the other day that seemed to serve both economy and con- venience. A box three feet long, a foot and a half wide across the bottom, and eighteen inches deep, is made of com- mon pine. The sides flare outward, so that, at the top, they measui-e six or eight inches more, from edge to edge, than at the bottom. This box stands on four legs with casters, and under the bottom of the box a piece of wood, fan- cifully cut on the edge ( a sort of pine valance), holds the legsfii-mly and sym- metrically together. The top of the box is nearly even with the window-sill, and, when the whole is constructed, it may either be painted in colors, or stained dark-brown, to match the furni- ture wood. The inside of the box is better preserved from decay, if lined with zinc or tin; but it will last one, possibly two seasons, without any lin- ing at all. Over the bottom is spread a three-inch layer of bits of broken flotv- er-pots, and on this is set a double row of pots, or as many as will stand evenly on the surface. Then a thick layer of sand is poured over the broken pieces, and the rest of the space filled up with earth till it is even with the top of the flower-pots. In the bed thus foi-med, bulbs and slips are planted between the pots, and vines are started at the cor- ners. When the latter are well under way, wires, on which the vines twist, are fastened diagonally from corner to corner, forming a beautiful, green arch over what seems to be a bed taken bod- ily from the garden. Sometimes a tiny hanging basket, or an Ivy growing in water, is hung from where the wires cross in the arch, but, even without it, there is no appearance of bareness. A cari^enter will make the box for two dollars and a half, and the rest, painting and all, can readily be done at home. — " Home and Socwfy ; " Scribner'sfor Feb- ruary. In India, Jute is superseding Cotton. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 57 INSURE THE GRAIN CROPS. Every year our farmers suifer the loss of hundreds of acres of wlieat, burned upon the field before harvesting, gener- ally by the carelessness of sportsmen, smokers of cigars, or the spontaneous ignition of phosphorus used for the destruction of squirrels. These fires have sometimes proved destructive to that degree that some have had recourse to insurance to protect them against a total loss. For the last two years, so imminent has become the danger, that insurance companies refused to take the risk, and farmers were compelled to become their own insurers. It will doubtless be the same this year; sweeping fires will lay waste in a day the labor of months. To guard against such wholesale destruc- tion, there is no better mode of insur- ance or protection than belts of green trees or green herbage a hundred feet or more in width, interspersed at jorop- er distances the entire breadth of the field. These belts should be prepared now, b}' plowing and seeding with something that will be sure to remain green till aft- er the harvesting of the grain. Alfal- fa, as one of the clovers, has this prop- erty in a remarkable degree, and would be an effectual bar to the progress of fire in a grain-field, and its product really worth more to the farmer than the same breadth of land sown to wheat. Among shrubs of taller growth, af- fording food for animals while green, and wood for the kitchen fire when dry, but remarkably juicy and succulent just ■when it would be wanted as a barrier against fire, there is nothing in the range of our experience equal to the Malva. If we take a still larger tree, and grow a belt as a bar to the progress of fire, as a wind-breaker, and for tim- ber, take the Eucalyptus glol)ulus. These barriers, if miles in length and costing considerable sums, would be, nevertheless, a good paying investment, enhancing the value of the whole prop- erty, and adding security and insurance to broad, almost endless grain-fields; at least, only one section need be lost at one burning. It is a matter worthy and should receive the attention of our large landowners and grain-growers. — Chroii- icle. « ABOUT BEE PASTURAGE. With experience and fact both going to show the profitableness of bee-cult- ure on the Pacific Coast, the business nevertheless seems to be every year cen- tralizing, getting into fewer hands, or, at least, with our raj)idly increasing ag- ricultural population, there is very little increase in the number who keep bees. We can account for this in no other way than that those who have attempted it in previous years and failed, either had really no taste for the pursuit, or wei'e unfortunate in their location for its suc- cessful prosecution. Wherever pasturage can be obtained in tolerable abundance, bee-keej^ing, if scientifically conducted, is attended with large profit. Our long and severe- ly dry summers cut short the food of bees even more than would have been supposed ; and this fact has brought about the nomadic system now prac- ticed by our largest bee-keepers. How- ever necessary this may be to the owner of thousands of hives, there are still great numbers of localities where from fifty to one hundred hives can be kept upon a largely paying basis without re- moval. In the vicinity of towns and cities where vegetable gardeners grow their own seeds, and where fruit and orna- VoL. IV.— 8. 58 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUllIST. mental trees and flowers abound, our suburban residents should keep bees. For tbe benefit of those who would like to know whether they are in the vi- cinity of good bee pasturage, we annex a few of the more commonly grown plants, shrubs, and trees found in the subiarbs of towns, which yield good bee pasturage. In early spring. Crocuses receive lively attention from bees ; but more pollen than honey is collected from these flowers. The border Hya- cinths of our gardens are honey-yield- ing, and are eagerly sought when in flower. The Ilaspberr}^ Gooseberry and Currant furnish excellent feed. The flowers of nearly all the diflferent kinds of Beans are about as rich in honey as any flower can well be. A singular fact in regard to the flower of the Bean is, that being tubular-shaped and narrow, the bee can not get to the bottom of the flower on the inside, but will pierce the tubes near the bottom from the outside. Field Mustard not only continues a long time in bloom, but yields a clear and excellent honey. The flowers of Turnips and all the Brassica tribe are exceedingly tempting to bees, and yield them large supplies. The White or Dutch Clover stands the queen of hon- ey plants, but the large Red, though pro- ductive of honey, is useless, the bee be- ing unable to reach it. Plum-trees are among the very best of our fruit-trees for honey-yielding, but the Apple, Pear, Cherry, Peach, and Apricot are all largely honey-producing. The different varieties of Willow — salix — are always visited by bees in the spring. Maple, Sycamore — or Plane — and Lime-trees are of value to the bee farmer. From the foregoing list of the more common honey-jDroducing plants, one can judge of the probable amount of bee feed for the season, in their re- spective localities. — Chronicle. THE BANANA. ]\Ir. F. Curtis, a writer for the Prairie Farmer, from Louisiana, thus talks about the Banana : " The Banana is not properly a tree, but a plant of leafy, succulent growth, of the genus Musa. The stalk is form- of the stems of the leaves in concentric layers, reaching with its leaves a height of fifteen or twenty feet, and eight or ten inches in thickness, and contains no woody fibre. From the centre comes the first bearing stem, which turns, and grows downwards. The end of it has the appearance of an ear of Corn, with purple shuck. This unfolds one leaf at a time, displaying two rows — eight to twelve — of tiny little fruit, with deli- cate blossoms, until it attains a length of two or three feet, covered with fruit. The leaves are a marvel for size and ap- pearance, sometimes reaching a length of six feet, and eighteen inches in width, of a glossy pea-green. The root is per- ennial. It is large and fleshy — some- times of the size of a half-bushel meas- ure, from which put forth numerous rootlets, half an inch in diameter. From the main root are constantly springing numerous suckers, which go to form new plants. This being its mode of propagation, they can be taken off to form new plantations, or remain, as may be wanted. " In a suitable soil, which should be rich and moist, and tropical climate, it requires about one year to mature its fruit, from the first appearance of the plant. When it is gathered, the stalk is cut down. Ten feet apart is a good dis- tance to plant them. This gives over four hundred per acre, and the second year there will be ten or twelve plants to each hill, and soon will occupy most of the ground. After the first year they require but little cultivation, the THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 59 old stalks aud leaves acting as mulcli and manure. Under favorable condi- tions there is no cessation of growth. New plants and ripe fruit are found at all times, and a plantation once started lasts for years. "It is probable that no plant ever cultivated will yield more food per acre, or result in greater profit to the owner, where there is a market for it. It is easily and cheaply gathered, requiring no packages, and bears handling and transportation well. Ten bunches a year per hill is a fair estimate for the yield of a good plantation. This would give over 4,000 bunches per acre. Many of these will contain over 100 Bananas. It is a favorite fruit in tropical coun- tries, and always in demand at the sea- port towns for shipment. There are some people, no doubt, who live on Bananas alone; but it is not probable that any great amount of work can be got out of a dozen of that fruit a day. Southern Florida and some of the isl- ands on its coast have proved to be suitable and profitable for the culture of the Banana, and instances are men- tioned where the receipts have been over $3,000 per year from a single acre, in- cluding some plants sold. The south- ern part of California is also said to be well suited to its growth. These are the only parts of the United States where it can be grown successfully. ' ' Here it requires two years to perfect itself, and without winter protection, seldom matures its fruit." Gaeden Adobnments. — Ornamental vases, rustic stands, and hanging bas- kets filled with choice growing plants, now form a prominent and comelj^ fea- ture in the decoration of our flower gar- dens and pleasure grounds. They are elaborately bedecked, and add rich- ness and elegance to well-embellished grounds. In the smallest gardens there is room for one or more of them ; they are of various sizes, and sold largely by seedsmen. The successful culture of lovely plants in baskets, vases, etc., lies in the prop- er selection of plants; for example, all the plants set in one vessel should be such as will flourish under the same treatment. It is true that some species require more water than others — some thrive best in sunshine, others succeed best in partial shade. Any one at a loss to se- lect suitable plants may ask an honest florist to furnish such plants, and the right number to plant in a vase, stand, or hanging basket. State the size of it, and whether it will be placed in full or in partial shade — and whether creeping or upright i)lants are desired. The next jjoint is, to use a rich, light, and friable compost for the plants to grow in, as their roots will be confined in a small space. Frequent waterings should also be attended to. When the weather gets too cold for the plants in fall, all the vessels may be taken into the house, and by special care the plants therein will flourish till the fol- lowing spring, when they should be thrown out, and the vessels refilled with new plants and fresh compost. Ferns, Ivies, Lysimachias, Periwin- kles, Lycopediums, Tradescantias, Sax- ifragas, and many other genera, groAV well even where they never get a glimpse of sunshine. — The Ever-green. To Preserve Flowers. — Put a pinch of nitrate of soda into the water every day when it is changed. This will pre- serve flowers for a fortnight. Nitrate of potash in powder has nearly the same efl:ect. 00 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. ADORNMENT OF HOME. Home 1 as a meaning and intention beyond the simple necessities of life. It is made, or ought to be, for some- thing more than a place to eat and drink and sleep. It is for cultivation, pleas- ure, rational enjoyment and improve- ment. Cultivated man generally ex- hibits some taste about home. It is generally the index to his degree of cul- tivation. The savage leaves his home unadorned. The barbarian deems it unworthy of him to study for rational adornments of his home; or even for ordinary comfort. Just as civilization advances, taste exhibits itself in the homes of the peo- ple. A cultivated mind craves a beau- tiful home. And what makes a beauti- ful home? It is not wealth, for we have just .been told of a man worth $250,000, who never had a chair in his house or rather hovel. He and his family sat on rude stools. It is not professional honors, nor lear^ing, nor talent, that makes home beautiful ; for we have seen all these in homes dis- gusting to every idea of taste, order, or neatness. It is what is around and within our home that makes it beauti- ful— the evidence of taste, refinement and culture that encircles it. A home must have some things about it, or it can not be in the highest degree pleas- ant. The first of these is order. There must be order in the arrangement of the buildings. They must be situated in proper relation to the points of the compass. A house that faces no way in particular; neither north, south, east, or west, is sadly out of order, unless the road, or street, or hill, or valley, or stream, or some other prominent natu- ral object, be so important as to be its regulator. When a house is orderly established with respect to the points of the compass, or the scenery about it — the next thing is to have the land im- mediately around it so graded as to car- ry off all water and look pleasantly to the eye. Then the fences about the house should be square with the house and other buildings. They should bo neat and trim, the best of their kind, and made both with respect to conven- ience and good taste. Fences may be cheap and in good taste, or expensive and out of taste. The yards, gardens, &c., about a home, when neatly fenced, add greatly to its appearance. Fine fences beautify a farm, and esijecially a home. "When kept in good rei:)air, painted or whitewashed, free from a hedgeway of weeds, briars, thistles, brushwood, &c., they remind every passer-by of thrift, taste, and happiness within. The next point of importance is walks to the road, garden, yards, and out- buildings. They are easily made, and when neatly made and well arranged, add greatly to the beauty of home. A puddle of water, a mud -hole, or any such pestiferous obstruction, in a fre- quented path or walk about a farmer's home is a great annoyance, and reflects seriously on his good taste and good sense. The walks made, and trees and shrubbeiy are then wanted. Trees along the road, trees about the yards, and shrubbery around the house, are so nat- ural, so graceful to the eye, so musical to the ear, so delicious to the taste, that a home without them scarcely deserves the name. We would not have it all trees about a home. That would create too much dampness. But just enough trees to make a sprightly contrast be- tween sunshine and shade, between heat and cold. But trees are not enough. There should be vines, an abundance of vines, those beautiful emblems of aft'ection. THE CALIFOENIA HOETICULTUEIST. 61 about every home. A home without vines, is like a man '^N'ithout a wife, or a bii'cl without a mate. It wears a look of desolation. Vines come creeping about so lovingly, grow so thriftily, bloom so profusely, can be trained into so many beautiful forms, and are withal so fresh and fragrant, that they should be about every home, to remind its inmates of in- dustry, sprightliness and affection. Then commence the flowers, close along the walks, beside the doors, un- der the window, in the corners of the fences, sprinkled in profusely and yet orderly, so as to give an idea of finish as well as of beauty and happiness. A home without flowers! No, let it not be. Let every woman, every child with tiny hand and growing taste, plant flow- er seeds and roots in little nooks, and recesses, and beds, where they can grow as well as not. They love to grow and blossom. Who does not love to see them? Let the buildings all be paint- ed, then let the flowers challenge them to a contrast of colors. When all is in order, let it be kept in order. And when the outside is beautiful, let the in- side be, with order, neatness, comfort, taste, virtue, peace, good-will, love and happiness. — Ex. Value of Walnut Lumber. — As an illustration of the increasing value of Walnut lumber, the Indianapolis Jour- nal notes that the standing Walnut trees on a half section of land on Eel River, in Miami County, Indiana, were recent- ly sold to a lumber dealer for $17,000. There is a large amount of other timber on the tract which is not included, only the Walnut timber being sold. Walnut lumber is coming more and more into use throughout this country and Eu- rope, and at present a very large busi- ness is done in preparing and shipping it from Indiana. (^tlit0rial g0rt!0n0» FEKNS {FILICES) AND THEIK CULTURE. We are much gratified to perceive among our amateurs a rapidly increas- ing appreciation of this wonderfully beautiful class of j^lants, whose con- summate grace and delicacy of fronds, and lovely shades of pure green, afford far more gratification and repose to the eye than all the gorgeous tints of Flora's kingdom. Ferns belong to the Cryptogams, and more especially to the division Acrogens of that class, of which they form one of the principal groups. They consist of arborescent and herbaceous perennials, and verj' rarely of annual plants; some of the tree Ferns having trunks from sixty to eighty feet in height, while others of the herbaceous varieties scarce- ly exceed an inch in height. All true Ferns may be recognized by the growth of their young fronds, which first make their appearance in the centre of the crown, clothed with a villous coating of light brown hair, and each closely en- rolled on itself; and by the development of their spores, which are produced on the under sides of the leaves. The Ferns offer so much variety of struct- ure, that they are necessarily subdivided into many groups. They are found in almost every part of the world. They grow to the greatest perfection in the shade of almost impenetrable forests, and generally delight in a humid atmos- phei-e — this habit must be specially noted in their cultivation. Like all other plants, they must have their sea- son of repose. Many varieties are spe- cially suited for rock cultivation; others are well adapted for hanging baskets. As a general rule, a compost of one- third of white sand, one-third of leaf- mold, and one -third of fibrous peat, G2 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. is the best soil that can be used for them. Their pr()i)ag:atioii is compara- tively easy — either by subdivision of the roots, or by raising them from the spores — while some few develop young plants upon their fronds. These latter, when they have put forth two or three fronds, should be carefully removed, potted into small pots, and kept in the shade. Many very beautiful varieties "are indigenous to our State, and their collection and cultivation promise a de- lightful recreation to those of our ama- teurs who have the opj^ortunity, and will embrace it. Very useful articles on their culture will be found in the Califoenia Hokticulturist, vol. 1, p. 289; vol. 2, p. 26; vol. 3, pp. 17 and 165. WOODWARD'S GARDENS. Although the present season has hitherto been particularly unfavorable, owing to the closely alternating of heavy rain and sharp frosts, yet, by the indefatigable attention of the gardener, the conservatories and hothouses have maintained their flourishing appearance. Many choice plants are coming into bloom; and when a propitious change in the weather takes place, the display of floral beauty will be magnificent. The grounds are in excellent condition; considerable alterations and improve- ments are in progress; and notwith- standing the inclemency of the weather, all the sections of the zoological depart- ment have been kept on the advance. The birds, in particular, are highly interesting, for their variety and the rarity of many specimens. SOCIETY NOTICES. Western New York Hortictltural Society. — The Nineteenth Annual Meet- ing of the Western New York Horticul- tural Society was held in the Com- mon Council Chamber, in the city of Rochester, commencing on Wednesday, January 7th, at 11 o'clock a. m. Re- ports were received from the Standing Committees, and many of the most im- portant horticultural topics of the day were discussed. Northern Illinois Horticultural So- ciety.— The Annual Meeting of the Northern Illinois Horticultural Society was held in Farwell Hall, in the city of Sterling, Whiteside County, January 27th, 28th, 29th, and30th, 1874. The discussions embraced subjects in every department of Horticulture, both in theory and practice, new and old, and a most profitable and enjoyable season was had. NOTICES OF BOOKS. Purdy's Small Fruit Indructor. This is a really valuable work on the subject of which it treats, and we can fully recommend it to those of our readers who need such information. The fol- lowing are some of the subjects of which it treats: " Small Fmit for the Family," "Advice to New Beginners," "Profits of Small Fruits," "Gathering the Fruit," "A Plan for Laying-out a Small Family Garden," " Raising New Sorts," "Preparation of Soil for Straw- berries, etc.," "Plan of a Fruit-drying House," etc. The price, post-paid, is twentj'-five cents. Address, A. M. Purdy, Palmyra, N. Y. OUR EXCHANGE TABLE. The Horticulturist. — In our notice of this valuable monthly magazine, in our December issue, we en-ed in the amount of annual subscription. It should have been two dollars. Henry T. Williams, 5 Beekman St., New York. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 03 The Ladies' Floral Cabinet is $1 25 per annum. Published by Henry T. Williams, New York. An excellent monthly periodical. American Farmers' Advocate. Wo note that the address of this very use- ful journal is changed from Jackson, Tenn., to Jacksonville, 111. Subscrip- tion, $1 per annum. Chas. W. Green, Editor. Moore's Rural New - Yorker. — Pub- lished by D. D. T. Moore, 5 Beekman St., New York. Subscription, $2 50 per annum. This excellent periodical entered on its twenty-fifth year on the 1st of January, and is evidently in the full vioor of its manhood. We can confidently recommend it to our readers. Live Stock Journal. — An excellent ex- ponent of its specialty, and well deserv- ing the patronage of every farmer. $1 50 per annum. Buffalo, N. Y. FAVORS EECEIVED. The Overland Monthly. — This is un- dovibtedly one of the best numbers yet issued of this first-class magazine, abounding in excellent articles, of which "The Vigilance Committee of 1850," "Salmon-fishing on the Novar- ro," "Seeking the Golden Fleece, No. G," "Summering in the Sierra, No. 2," particularly attracted our attention. "Etc.," and "Current Literature," are also quite equal to any preceding. Schedule of Prizea. offered by the Mas- sachusetts Horticultural Society for the year 1874:, is to hand, per favor of E. W. Buswell, Esq., Treasurer and Cor- responding Secretary. Many thanks for the same. CATALOGUES RECEIVED. We have received catalogue of R. J. Trumbull, 427 Sansome street, San Francisco, Cal. A copious and well- illustrated catalogue, well worthy the perusal of such of our readers as need his specialties. His assortment of semi-tropical fruit-trees, from Garey's stock, are well worthy of attention. We have just had a casual look at the proof-sheets of F. Liidemann & Co.'s "Descriptive Catalogue of Plants," as they were going through the press of our publishers. These gentlemen are the proprietors of the Pacific Nursery in this city. We shall notice it more at lenfith in our next issue. Flower Gardens for Children. — It is desirable on many accounts that chil- dren should cultivate flowers rather than fruits or vegetables. Most children are fond of flowers, and all can be taught to love them, and the hardier and com- moner sorts at least do not tax their en- ergies so heavily as either fruits or veg- etables in cultivation. Besides, since flowers appeal solely to the moral sense, they facilitate the inculcation of gener- ous habits. As children acquire strength and skill, they maj' gradually be intrust- ed with the care of vegetables or fruits; but they must be taught to use the pro- ducts of their little gardens as a means of conferring happiness on others; for thus can their own happiness be most effectively attained, since that which is selfishly enjoyed must ultimately result in discontent. But of all the lessons to be learned in a garden, the most valua- ble is the art of observing; for so varied, so delicate, so minute, and yet so uner- ring are the operations of Nature, that, though the closest study may fail to fathom her mysteries, the rewards of such study are so rich and so surprising, that even the student of tender years is perj)etually stimulated to fresh re- searches. This interest in natural ob- G4 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUIIIST. jects, once awakened, will prove an in- exhaustible source of pleasure while life lasts; for it is an interest that the com- monest heath can g'ratif}^; and he that has made good use of his powers of ob- servation, he that has trained his senses to bring him accurate information, can not "travel from Dan to Beersheba, and cry 'Tis all barren." — Hume and School. ^ FLORAL REVIEW. BY F. A. MILLEE. The weather has been unusually dis- agreeable during the last month or two, and has delayed work which necessarily ought to have been completed by us, before this time. Continual rain storms have kept the ground too moist for any outdoor work, and plants in the green- house and conservatories have suffered much from dampness. Usually we no- tice at this time, the approach of Spring, the buds begin to swell, seeds are veg- etating, and everything seems to make a start for new life. This year, howev- er, plants show as little life in Februa- ry as we are accustomed to notice in November and December. As we may reasonably expect some bright and warm days during the next few weeks, we should not lose sight of the most important work to be done without delay, such as working up the soil, enriching it with good old stable manure, planting trees and shrubs, wherever they are desirable, pruning and trimming of vines and flowering and ornamental shrubs, sowing hardy flower seeds, as Mignonette, Pansies, Stocks, Candytuft, Sweet Alyssum, Gypsophila, Sweet William, Larkspur, Pinks, Sweet Pea, Snapdragon, etc. During bright and warm days it should not be neglected to ventilate greenhouses, conservatories, or rooms where plants are kept, thoroughly, ev- ery day, from nine in the morning until three in the afternoon. The damp and disagreeable weather made drying im- possible the past two months; the su- perabundance of moisture created a foul atmosphere, fungus makes its ap- pearance in all its various forms, the leaves of plants are rotting away, and all this acts again upon the soil in which the plants grow. Thorough ven- tilation, as I advised above, will, in a great measure, counteract all the evils referred to, and will keep the plants from perishing entirely. If you can keep them in fair condition for another month, they will amply repay you for all the attention and care you have be- stowed upon them. Flowers have been verj' few and far between during the past month; and our florists have not been able to sup- ply the demand. However, the worst is over undoubtedly, and a few days of fine weather will help materially. The chief bouquet material has been Camel- lias, Heliotroi^es, T-iily of the Valley, Cineraria, Hyacinths, Primulas, Ahnii- lon vexilUu-iiim, Adianfum cuneatum, and Orange-blossoms, from the green- house; andRoses, Pinks, Violets, Stocks, Mignonette, Ageratum, Pansies,Diosma, Erica, Fuchsia, Candytuft, Antholyza, Gladiolus, and Laurustinus, from the open ground. For button-hole bouquets, the Lily of the Valley, Hyacinths, and Violets, are in greatest demand; while for ladies* hair-dress, the Camellia, with a spray of Smilax, or the Lily of the Valley, is used almost exclusively. During the coming month, the fol- lowing plants will be the chief attrac- tions in the house: Frimuln Chiiiensis (Chinese Primrose), Cinerarias, Lily of the Valley, Camellias, Hyacinths, Epi- j)li;/llu)n (Fuchsia, or Lobster Cactus), THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 65 Cyclamen, Eupatorium, Begonia Ver- schaffelti, Streptocarpus Rexii, Libonia Penrhosiensis, lAnum flavum, Azaleas, Bouvardias, and Narcissus. The following bulbs may yet be plant- ed for early flowering, both in and out of doors : Hyacinths, Tulips, Anemones, Diehjtra (Bleeding Heart), Lily of the Valley, Narcissus, Snowdrops, Erythro- ni,um grandifioritm (a most desirable flowering bulb, and native of Califor- nia), Ranunculus, and Crocus. All of these are early flowering bulbs, and adapted to house culture as well as for the border. If Roses are taken up from the ground, planted in pots or boxes, and placed in a sunny place in the house, they will flower in about a month. About two- thirds of the young wood should be taken o£F before taking them into the house. The same mode of treatment is applicable to Deutzias, Spiraeas, Wiegel- ias, and other flowering shrubs. The result will amply remunerate for the little extra labor and care. , Pelakgonium Marie Lemoine as a Bed- ding Plant. — I would strongly recom- mend the above to the notice of flower gardeners for the coming season. I had tAvo large beds of double pink Pelargo- niums last season for trial, each con- taining about sixty plants of Madame and Marie Lemoine : Madame is not worth growing in comparison with Marie — the growth was irregular, and most of the leaves spotted, and the trusses of flowers small, while in Marie the growth was regular, and the foliage handsome, and splendid trusses of bloom, which stood the rain. It is a continuous bloomer ( far preferable to Christine as a pink, ) and requires liber- al treatment. I have been told it is a shy grower, but have not experienced it. — Gardener's Chronicle. Vou IV.— 9. KEPOET ON THE FRUIT AND VEGETA- BLE MARKET. BT E. J. HOOPEB. I continue the description of the dif- ferent kinds of nuts from the last re- port. Bitter-nut, Hog-nut, or Swamp-hick- ories, are the poorest of all the varie- ties; in fact the kernel is so harsh and bitter that even the squirrels will not eat them. All the varieties ripen about the middle of September. Horse-chestnuts, or Buckeyes, grow in fleshy, prickly capsules, and ripen in the fall months. These nuts are not edible without some preparation. The bitter green oil is removed by first grat- ing them to a pulp, then adding one fiftieth (1-50) by weight of carbonate of soda. The mixture is then thoroughly washed and racked by means of a clear fountain, and a white and agreeable paste subsides, which is manufactured into bread and cakes. In Paris they are manufactured into starch. Madeira or English Walnuts are an- nually imported here in moderate num- bers, and found in the fine groceries, fruit-stores, and markets. The Greno- ble nuts are considered the best, and are in season throughout the year. The nuts begin to arrive in January and continue until May, when they are con- sidered best. Peanuts, Earth-nuts, Pindar-nuts, or Ground-peas, are found for sale in all our principal cities and in most towns and even villages, and in all seasons of the year. They are brought principal- ly from the Southern States, the south of this State, Africa, &c., in large quan- tities, and may be found not only in fruit and grocery stores, but also at the corners of the streets, and, after having been roasted, everywhere, in the mar- kets, at apple-stands, from peddlers, &c. GG THE CALIFORNIA HOliTICULTURIST. The fresh or new nuts arrive here in October. lu places where there are frosts, the first frost kills the vines and ripens the nuts. The annual importa- tion to the Northern States and Cana- da, and the States west of the liocky Mountains, no doubt considerably ex- ceeds 200,000 bushels. A single plant- er in one of the Eastern States has ob- tained from their culture a yearly in- come of $6,000. He raises from fifty to seventy-five bushels to the acre, and cultivates five acres to the hand, where at one dollar a bushel, the ordinary price — though one dollar and twenty- five cents are frequently realized — yields an income of from $250 to $300 to the hand. No such result, under the old system of labor, could be obtained with the staples on similar soils. Our Cot- ton planters contented themselves with a crop yielding from twelve to fifteen dollars an acre, and it was the summing up on a large surface that gave a living result. The cultivation of no crop is so easy as that of the Peanut, and only the simplest implements are required ; first the plow, to break the land, and then simply the sweep and weeding hoes. The average crop, as I have stated, is from fifty to seventy-five bushels to the acre, besides which, there will be left upon the ground enough to fatten 100 pounds of pork. The vine, when the Pea is removed, makes an excellent for- age for cattle — said to be equal to the best hay or wild Oats. From the nut is expressed a now valuable oil. Dur- ing the late war in the States this oil was universally used in our machine shops, and its lubricatory properties were pronounced by competent author- ities to be superior to those of whale oil, for the reason that it does not gum at all. One of the qualities of the oil is extensively employed in the comijositiou of medicine; another is used for burn- ing purposes, and ]w^ sesses the virtue of not smoking; while still a third makes a really excellent salad condiment. Such, and so varied and important arc the uses to which this simple product can be devoted; uses which the unin- formed, who have perhaps regarded it only in the light of an indigestible bulb, would never suspect to proceed from its cultivation. Pecan nuts are brought from the South and do well in California. They are taken by some for a species of the Hickory nut, known by them as the Illi- nois Hickory. It is almost an inch long, as lai'ge as the end of a common sized finger, with a smooth shell, and oblong shape. They are of an agreea- able taste and wholesome. Those that are brought here come princiijally from the Southern States and Texas, and are in season from November until April or May. Almonds and English Walnuts, with many others of the nuts just described, are now being grown extensively on this coast, and it will not be many years before we will probably have a large surplus quantity of many kinds of nuts, if not the whole of them, as we have now of Oranges, Grapes, &c. We im- IDort now Malaga Raisins, Zante Cur- rants, and Hungarian Prunes. Cur- rants, Prunes, Plums, &c., are now dried here in large quantities; also Apples, Peaches, and many other fruits too nu- merous to mention. The Alden jjro- cess of drying fruit will revolutionize this whole traffic. Raisins have also been successfully cured here the past season, and we are every year doing more in the way of drying and curing Figs. From the statistics furnished us, we condense the following as the operation of the Aldcn Fruit Preserving Works at THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTITRIST. 67 San Lorenzo; of wliich Littlefield, Webb k Co. are the resident agents. In a work- ing season of 140 days, 790,000 lbs of fruits and vegetables have been preserv- ed, as follows: Apples, 833,700 lbs; Pears, 171,350; Peaches, 68,734; Corn, 4U,208; Squash, 48,283; Currants, 42,- 200; Apricots, 37,091; Potatoes, 14,G13; Onions, 8,871; Plums and Prunes, 5,- 368; Rhubarb, 4,742; Tomatoes, 4,192; Cherries, 3,401; Peas, 1,40G; Beef, 671; Beans, 206; Miscellaneous, 2,000; total, 790,045 lbs. This being the first sea- son of its operation here, it is consider- ed quite a success. During the 140 days, an average of only four evaporators were used ; if the factory had been worked to its full capacity, 1,000,000 pounds would have been the amount, thus showing an average of nearly four tons per day. Not having a full supj^ly of fruit was the reason the factoiy was not run to its full capacity. The sales of the Alden I^roduct have been much better than was expected, the quality of the fruit far exceeding any ever offered for sale by the Eastern factories. The agents of the company in this city have re- ceived orders which they are unable to fill, being sold out of a fall line already. Orders were received for a lot of On- ions and Ai^ples for the Navy Deimrt- ment, which would require 3,000 sacks of Onions and over 5,000 boxes of Ap- ples to fill it; but the order coming so late, they were unable to procure them in quantities to warrant accepting the order. From w^hat we have seen of the Alden product, we are convinced of its excellence and superiority over any present method of preserving, and be. speak for it great success on this coast. Following is the price list of the San Lorenzo Fruit Preserving Company : Apricots, 32c to 40c per lb; Peaches, 124c to 30c; Pears, 12J-c to 50c, the latter rate for Bartlett, pared; Currants, 32|c to 40c: Apples, 12^0; Plums, 25c; Rhu- barb, 35c; Corn, 30c ; Potatoes, 14c; Sweet do, 15c; Onions, 40c; Beef, 40c; Tomatoes, 75c; Squash, 25c. The above are put up in bulk in boxes containing 30 to 50 lbs, and also in 1-lb caddies in cases of two dozen each. Extra choice Apjiles, in 10-lb boxes, expressly for family use, 18c; do Pears, 22|c per lb. The first Cucumbers of the season ar- rived in the first week in January, from Vacaville, Solano County. They were grown under glass. Green Peas were at that time less plentiful, on account of the supply from the Mission Gardens being exhausted. The poor quality of those coming forward at that time, pre- vented any advance. The markets on the 10th of last month (January) were abundantly sup- plied with Los Angeles Oranges, the greater portion of which were of inferi- or quality, and sold at low prices. The stock of Mexican held out for some time, and had a depressing effect upon California fruit. Apples were abund- ant up to the middle of January; but Pears of all kinds were very scarce. Ban- anas were at 75c; Smyrna Figs, 35c per lb; Ajiples, by the box, were delivered at $1.25 to $2.50; Pears, $2 to $3. With the excejDtion of a decline in Asparagus and Artichokes, prices in the vegetable markets underwent no change from the beginning to the end of Janu- ary. The last week in January, Green PejDpers, from Mexico, retailed at $2 to 25c; Spinach, 8c; New Potatoes, 5c to 8c; Asparagus, 50c per lb; Lettuce, 20c to 25c per dozen; Salsify, 8c to 10c per bunch; Potatoes by the sack, delivered, $1.25 to $1.50 per 100 lbs. During the same period, the supjily of tropical fruit was increased by the arrival of a cargo of Oranges, Limes, and Cocoanuts, from Tahiti; Bananas from Honolulu, and Bananas, Pineap- G8 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. pies, and Limes, by tlie Panama steam- er. Shipments of California Oranges from Los Angeles were liberal, and as the quality improved and the supply of Mexican decreased, the inquiry for them increased. Apples -were abund- ant, and prices took a wide range. In the latter part of January, Bananas were at 75c; Smyrna Figs, 35c per lb; Apples by the box, delivered, $1.25 to $2.50; Pears, $2 to $3. The last of January the retail mar- kets continued dull under the depress- ing influence of wet weather. Oranges were the chief among fruits, and they were in abundant supply, especially from Los Angeles. The inferior de- scriptions of the latter were hawking in the streets at 25c per dozen, while the better description from the San Gabriel valley — from the Sunnyslope and Lake Vineyard orchards — commanded the highest price in the market, $1 per doz- en. Mexican Oranges were plentiful at 50c to 75c per dozen, and Tahiti Oran- ges at 50c. Pears were giving out, and were quoted at Gc to 8c. Pineai^jDles sold at 75c to $1 each. Potatoes, Asparagus, Cabbage, and Cabbage Sprouts, remained firm at the quotations of a week before. Rhubarb from Petaluma retailed at 20c per lb. Mushrooms advanced to 35c and 50c per lb. Horse Radish was easier at 20c per lb. Improved Foliage Beets. — The gar- den Beet would be a beautiful orna- ment in the flower garden if it were not so common elsewhere. But there have been some variegated kinds produced, which are said to be as handsome as the Coleus. Mr. Bull thus talks about them — one in particular, which he calls " Multicolor": " This useful and handsome decorative Beet has been raised by Mr. Clark, gardener to W. S. Mitchell Innes, of Edinburgh, where it has been carefully grown and selected for some years past. "With reference to the origin, Mr. Clark states that a sin- gle vai'iegated plant came up in a lot of the ordinary garden Beet. This plant produced seed which gave a numerous progeny of various colors. The seed saved from the second generation pro- duced plants in which the variegation was still further developed, and embra- cing the following colors: rose, orange, magenta, silver, bronze, crimson, with various shades of jDurple — and with the difi'erent colors blended, from the bright- est orange to the richest carmine; and when shown before the Royal Caledo- nian and Royal Horticultural Societies, twenty distinct varieties were exhibited. From its hardy character, and the vari- ety of color it produces, the use of this Beet as a decorative plant for flower gardens (apart from culinary pux'poses), can scarcely be over-estimated; plants potted in autumn would be extremely ser\iceable for cool conservatory deco- ration, their colors rivaling those of the brightest Dracaenas, with the advantage of not requiring a stove like the last- named. " *■ T Purple Cone-flower, {Echinacea pur- purea.)— A specimen of this plant in cultivation from Illinois, presented some features which commend it to attention for the garden. Although somewhat coarse in foliage, its large flower-heads terminating the naked peduncles are quite showy, from the dark-purple, al- most black, conical centre and the nu- merous (ten to fifteen) light-purple pen- dant rays. These rays are about two inches long by one-fourth of an inch wide. The plant is vigorous and hardy and is worthy of trial in the flowei-- garden. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 69 (^flitarial 6Uamtt0Si. A London Experiment with Sewage. — The Phosphate Sewage Company, of London, have patented a process which promises to solve the very troublesome question of the disposition of the liquid filth that flows through the sewers of every city. The process combines the saving of the rich manurial properties of the sewage for fertilizing purposes, with its disinfection, so that, instead of polluting some neighboring brook or river, the liquid portion that escapes is clarified into sparkling water, pure alike to smell and taste. The company is at present experimenting with a portion of the sewage of London, treating it in the following manner: The sewage, a turbulent mass of thick, black, and odorous water, is pumped out of the main into a wooden carrier, along which it runs for a few feet, till, passing a small pumping-engine, it receives the addition of a small quantity of phos- phate of alumina, specially prepared. The sewage continues its course along the carrier some distance, the phosphate meanwhile becoming thoroughly mixed with it, and visibly affecting its appear- ance in the direction of clarification. It next receives a further addition in the shape of milk of lime pumped into the carrier from another small pumping station, and the mixture is permitted to flow into two large tanks, where the process of precipitation takes place, the effluent water running off by carriers to perform its work of irrigation. New Paper-fibre. — According to the Agricultural Gazette of India, a common weed called Sida return, growing in great abundance in Queensland and New South Wales, has recently been found to afford a very valuable material for paper-making. It is a species of AMvacece, and the best specimens grow about Windsor, New South Wales, where it is known as American Lucerne. It is alleged to be of such vitality and vigor of gTowth as to be almost inerad- icable, and to grow in such profusion as to be a very troublesome weed; to be very superior to Esparto-grass, clean, easily bleached, and having all the best qualities of flax. * ' Samples of the Sida retusa having been submitted to the chief paper manufacturers in England, one and all have agreed in expressing their most favorable opinion of its per- fect adaptability to the purpose of pa- per-making, and all entertain a very high estimate of its market value." Va- rious species of Sida are represented to be common throughout India. One, Sida jnliafolia, reievred to by Dr. Forbes Boyle, in his work on Indian fibres, is said to be cultivated in China for its fibre, as a substitute for hemp and flax. Dr. Roxburgh describes its fibre as "strong and pliable, very silky in its nature, and the plant of very rapid and luxuriant growth, three crops being ob- tained in one year." Packing of Oranges and Lemons. — A full grown Orange-tree yields from 500 to 2,000 fruit annually, and arrives at the bearing state in three or five years, as does the Lemon-tree; and both grow luxuriantly in most soils. The planta- tions, in the Mediterranean countries, are called gardens, and vary in size, the smallest containing only a small num- ber of trees, and the largest many thou- sands. The fruit is gathered in baskets similar to peach - baskets, lined with canvas, the basket being held by a strap attached and passed around the neck or shoulders. From the garden the fruit goes to the repacking magazine, where 70 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. it is removed from tlie boxes iu which it was picked in the gardens, and repack- ed for shipment by experienced female packers, after haA'ing been assorted by women, and wrapped in se^^arate pa- pers by young girls. As many as 500 (mostly women and children) are em- ployed by some of the fruit-growers in their gardens and magazines, in gath- ering, sorting, and repacking for ship- ment, the wages paid them varying from nine to sixteen cents a day. In sorting, every fruit that wants a stem is rejected. The boxes are then securely covered, strapped, and marked with the brand of the grower, when they are ready for shipment. Twenty years ago this trade was nothing in its commercial charac- teiistics, or the inducements it offered to capitalists. Now it is progressing with giant strides into prominence, and is a considerable source of revenue to the Government. DirAiNE, New Substitute for Quinine. — The use of Eucalyptus globulus as a substitute for qiiinine has been quite thoroughly discussed, and now we find another plant which bids fair to make equally as great a stir in the medical world. The plant in question, Echisera scolaria, belongs to the family of the Apocynacese, and grows quite abund- antly near Luzon, in the province of Bataugar, in the Philippine Islands. Its bark has for some time been em- ployed by the inhabitants of the prov- ince as a cure for all kinds of fevers. M. Gruppe extracted from the bark the active principle, which he called ditaine, and which has been used in the hospitals in the same manner and the same doses as quinine. It is said to be quite as ef- ficacious as quinine, without producing any of its disagreeable effects, and has been found very valuable as a tonic. "Sanfoin." — The Monterey Gazette has the following: "This is a French name of a grass, a species of Lucerne, which in France has long been culti- vated as the most profitable of grasses, whether for hay or for pasture. Victor Bidache has received ten pounds of the seed, and will take measures this season to propagate it. He informs us that ' Sanfoin' will grow on lands having a dry constitution, and that it is remark- ably prolific, yielding, without irriga- tion, two crops of hay the season, and then serving for pasture. It grows two feet high, has a beautiful flower, and is full leaved. Besides its use as hay, it is emjDloyed as a fertilizer, like the red clover in the Eastern States. Should Mr. Bidache's experiment succeed, and there is no reason it should not, ' San- foin' will be a valuable addition to our grasses." The Yew Poisonous. — All the evidence on the subject of the Yew being poison- ous to cattle, horses and deer, leads to the conclusion that when eaten in its fresh state it is harmless, but when with- ered or partially so, it is poisonous. The clippings of Yew hedges, for instance, if laid within the reach of these animals and eaten by them, have invariably caused death ; but it is known that when they browse upon the fresh shoots in parks no such result occurs. — CoUaye Gardener. Germination of Primula Japonica. — English florists find that the Primula Japonica retains its germinating power down to the third season. Seeds which were received direct from Japan bj' E. G. Henderson & Son, and germinated but small numbers the first year, pi-o- duced thousands freely the second year, and the same pans still produced the third year from the original sowing. THE CALIFORNIA HOKTICULTURIST. 71 The Loudon Times sharply contro- verts the assertion made by Dr. Edward Smith to the British Association, that fish is rather a reHsh than food, and contains little more nutriment than •water. As opposed to this statement, the investigations of Mr. Payen are cited, who proves that the flesh of fish on the average does not contain more ■water than fresh beef, and has as much solid substance as the latter. For instance, the flesh of salmon contains 75.70 per cent, of water, and 24.296 per cent, solid substances, while beef (muscle) contains 75.88 per cent, of Avater, and 24.12 per cent, solid sub- stances. The flesh of hen-ing contains still less water than that of salmon, and some fish are as rich in nitrogenous substances as the best wheaten flour, weight for weight. The Esparto Grass. — At the Society of Arts recently, Mr. Johnson read a pa- per on Esparto Grass, Macrochola tena- cissima, now so largely used in the man- ufacture of paper. The leaf is the por- tion used, and the imports have ris- en from fifty tons in 1856 to over one hundred thousand tons in 1870, stand- ing second in this respect to cotton on- ly. The plant grows best on the sea- coast of southern Spain and northern Africa, and there seems to be no reason why the culture should not be largely increased both in the native country of the plant and in other regions of simi- lar climates, etc.^ The plant is repro- duced by seed, or transplanting. — Gar- dener's Chronicle. The Best Plants foe Hangino Bas- kets.— A contributor to the London Garden says that plants with slender branches which naturally hang down, are most suitable for hanging baskets. "Mother of Thousands"— the "Wan- dering Jew " with its prettily marked leaves — the Lobelias, and some of the trailing Campanulas or Bell-flowers — the well-named " Eat-tailed Cactus," and the so-called "Ice-plant," are all more at home when suspended than when grown in any other position, un- less it may be when placed on brackets at each side of the window, where they have a very' charming appearance. The same writer suggests that the suspend- ed basket or flower-pot should be sup- ported by a piece of cord passed through a small pulley, by which means it will be easily lowered down for the purpose of watering. Tree Lemon Verbena. — In these days, when effective plants are sought after, we should not lose sight of things at hand with which to produce as good re- sults as any new introduction can afford. The London Gardener's Chronicle calls attention to the pretty efl:ects which can be had from the common Lemon Verbe- na when trained as a standard. The wavy spikes of flowers are very grace- ful, and the odoriferous character of the plant will always make it a favorite in any form. — Gardener's Monthly. Blackberries in Califobnia. — The Cal- ifornia Agriculturist notices an acre and a half Blackberry patch near San Jose, from which were picked sixteen tons of fruit, and adds: "This is the second crop that he has gathered, as the vines are but three years old. The soil is a rich, light alluvial, and he cultivates thoroughly and clean- ly. The plants are four to eight feet apart. He irrigates from the time of blossoming while the fruiting lasts, as often as once a week, and says that it pays to irrigate copiously. The variety T 72 THE CALIFaNIA HORTICULTUKIST. cultivated is the Lawton. One man will pick from 100 to 112 pound per day, and it has required seven meicon- stantly at work to pick the fruitiom one and a half acres during the pen- ing season. " Health feom Flo wees. — It is roort- ed that an Italian professor has dcov- ered that perfumes from flowers hve a chemical effect on the atmospherecon- verting its oxygen into ozone, andhua increasing its health-imparting pwer. As the result of his researches he sates that essences of Cherry, Laurel, Liav- ender. Mint, Junij^er, Lemons, Fenel, and Bergamot are among those iiich develop the largest quantities of o^ne, while Anise and Thyme develop iin a less degree. Flowers destitute otper- fume have no such eflfect. Herery naturally recommends that dwellcs in marshy localities and near j^laces iiect- ed with animal emanations should^mr- round their homes with a profusia of the most odoriferous flowers — a reom- mendation which the Creator, thrugh their beauty and fragrance, addi^es to the senses of all sensible people AniANTUM FoRMosTjM. — The j>ove named Fern is certainly an exceedigly useful variety. It is very easily cuiva- ted, and can be proi)agated freely the mature fronds have also the good aal- ity of keeping longer after bein^cut than any other of the species; buthat it ia more beautiful than A. cv.neatm I can not admit. It is quite as ear to grow. I noticed it in an artici on s last year. The method allded 'i of inverting a small garden sacer jpide a larger one, so that the bocom of the pot just touches the surfac of the V, ater, is good wli en the plants ave quit.f; lillf;d tlieir pots with roots. I ave f ome Ferns which are grown for dii- bition, and must not be shifted into pots larger than twelve inches in diameter; they require watering twice or thrice a day in summer, and often suffer from neg- lect when standing on the stage with oth- er plants; but when the pots are placed bodily in saucers of water, they are not a tithe of the trouble, and seem to do well with their treatment. — Gardener's Record. METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, Fob the Mosth Endisg Jan. 3Lst, 1874. (Prepared for The HoEnciTLTUEisT by Thos. Tessest, Mathematical Inntrmuent and Chronometer-maker, No. 423 WatsLington Street, near the Post Office) . BAEOMETEB. Mean height at 9 a. m .30.17 in. do 12 M 30.17 do 3 p. M :i0.15 do 6 p. M 3(j.l.5 Greatest height, on the 20th at 12 st .30.45 Leaot height, on the 1.5tb at G p. m 29.68 THEEMOMETEB. ( Wxlh nirrfh fxpotuTe and fret from reJleeUd hf.al.) Mean height at 9 a. m iff' do 12 m sa-" do .3 p. M 60^J do 6 P. M 46^ Greatest height, on the 1.5th at 12 m 60" Least heifcht, on the 12th and 22d at 9 a. m., and 12th at 6 P. M 3^ SELF - BEOiaTEBINO THEEMOMETEE. Mean height daring the night iV- Greatest height, on night of IRth , 64'' Least height, on night of 'Hid ^^i^ WINDS. North and north-<««t on 17 days; s^juth and Bouth-eawt on 2 dayn; s^juth-west on 8 days; east on 1 day; uorth- west on 3 days. WEATHEB. Clear on 7 days; variable on 8 days; clondy on IC days; rain on 14 days. BAIN OA0OE. January Ist 1.54 inches. l^th 006 1.0th 0.3.5 •• l«th .■.: 0.20 " I'tb ().fa •• l«th 0.07 " l''th 0..36 2rrth 0.32 " I'lft 0.08 •• '^■''>t>i 0.2.5 " !^''th 0.12 '^"th 0.1.3 •• !«th 0.45 " 3(rth. t 0.33 " Total ^^ ., Total rain of the Heanori up to dat<; .1714 " jlFiwril OF EVElty JJKSCJUIPTION Executed at this Office ! ^ tr 72 THE CALIFOKIA HORTICULTURIST. cultivated is the Lawton. One :an will pick from 100 to 112 pounds )er day, and it has required seven men on- stantly at work to pick the fruit fim one and a half acres during the ripn- ing season. " Health from Flowers. — It is rcjrt- ed that an Italian i^rofessor has dis)v- ered that perfumes from flowers hai a chemical effect on the atmosphere, on- verting its oxygen into ozone, and lus increasing its health -imparting po^r. As the result of his researches he st:es that essences of Cherry, Laurel, liv- ender. Mint, Juniper, Lemons, Fenel, and Bergamot are among those wlch develop the largest quantities of ozae, while Anise and Thyme develop it i a less degree. Flowers destitute of 3r- fume have no such effect. He ■\ry naturally recommends that dweller in marshy localities and near places inf jt- ed with animal emanations should ir- round their homes with a prof usioi of the most odoriferous flowers — a rectn- mendation which the Creator, thro^h their beauty and fragrance, addreies to the senses of all sensible people. Adiaktum Formosum. — The al ve named Fern is certainly an exceedirly useful variety. It is very easily cult'a- ted, and can be propagated freely; he mature fronds have also the good qil- ity of keeping longer after being ut than any other of the species; but lat it is more beautiful than A. cuneatu. can not admit. It is quite as grow. I noticed it in an Ferns last year. The methods to of inverting a small inside a larger one, so of the pot just toucli( the water, is good quite filled their pc some Ferns whicl bition, and must not be shifted into pots larger than twelve inches in diameter; they require watering twice or thrice a day in summer, and often suffer from neg- lect when standing on the stage with oth- er plants; but when the pots are placed bodily in saucers of water, they are not a tithe of the trouble, and seem to do well with their treatment. — Gardener's Record. METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, Fob the Month Ending Jan. 31st, 1874. (Prepared for The Hohticultueist by Thos. Teknent, Matheiuatical lustruiueut and Chronouieter-maker, No. 423 Wasliington Street, near the Post Office). BAKOMETEE. Mean height at 9 a. m 30.17 in. do 12 m 30.17 do 3p. M 30.15 do C p. M 30.15 Greatest height, on the •£>t\\ at 12 m .30.45 Least height, on the 15th at G p. m 29.68 THERMOMETEB. ( yVUh north exposure and free from reflected heal.) Mean height at 9 a. m 46° do 12 M 50'-' do 3 p. M 50° do C P. M 46° Greatest height, on the 15th at 12 m 60° Least height, on the 12th and 22d at 9 a. m., and 12th at 6 p. M 39o SELF-BEGI8TEEING THEBMOMETEB. Mean height during the night 41° Greatest height, on night of IGth , 54° Least height, on night of 23d 33° WINDS. North and north-cast on 17 days; south and south-east on 2 days; south-west on b days; east on 1 day; north- west on 3 days. WEATHEB. Clear on 7 days; variable on 8 days; cloudy on 16 days; rain on 14 days. BAIN GAUGE. Uth 0 06 15th . . . 0.35 " If.th 0.20 " 17th 0.59 " 18th 0.07 " lyth 0.36 20th 0 32 ■^i"* — ■|^^^...0.08 Wfr. IIF g^^Sth ••j^^H ^^^^^^^^H r i T II E :^^. \N\) FLORA VOL. IV i'hP ed in sand of mou > may reniain until tjie time for - .n- e , v^;.. I would Hd« is- »:•>:. I,- •^- i.'-" ^■-■'■^. •■ ^ ii'i be reco '"• Varieties gvovf liouse piani. it iR ; Indies, Central Ami-.i. .•..;. The treatment necessary : but the ioilowing rules must be o>... Tr - i-^stsoilfor it is a sandy leaf -i^u, i & small quantity of bone aslii umaica, fin© ' six to eip-hl f ''^-' ^^ _.- at equal disi- A. •■■nc M€X5v ■ : iot to be .filled up to within crs ! ■ e, with yellow thr-> : ;_ f tlie rim: A. ^r. .:..:, - "•a, lilac. ■ carefully A. bmgith itn rnajfyr^ !>*»«! until tbe A, Air- : o i in this •■- 1; ued from :jt growl .: ■ ' ciOi-'*^ .!. ■ : ^^.l- ■ ■nij •' be cniiition noi be 1 v/hitene:: in- The L^ value. 74 THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTUKIST. ORNAMENTAL SHRUBS— HOW TO TAKE CARE OF THEM. Deciduous shrubs are propagfatetl by cuttings, layers, offsets, or divisions of the root, and seed. Cuttings are made of the ripe wood of the same year's growth, cut in November and heeled in — that is, the lower end of the cutting is planted in sand, in a cellar or some place where there is an even tempera- ture, above freezing, and yet not warm enough to start the buds before it is time to plant in the spring. Most of the new varieties are propagated by cutting o£E" the young shoots. These are taken off when about three inches in length, and planted in boxes or shal- low pots, filled with sand, and placed in frames where there is a moderate de- gree of bottom heat. To be successful in raising cuttings in this way, the tem- perature should be kept as even as pos- sible. The sudden changes from fifty to sixty, and then down to thirty, caus- es the cuttings to damp off, as the gar- deners term it — that is, turning black and rotting. Other varieties of shrubs are raised from cuttings of the root, which may be cut up in small pieces of an inch in length, and planted in the same way. All varieties like a rich and deep soil. The Laburnum and Japan Quince have long roots, which run deep into the ground, and when grown in poor soil, they have a dwarf and stunt- ed appearance. Most shrubs, as a gen- eral rule, send out their roots not far from the surface of the soil; conse- quently, a slight surface manuring in the fall is all that is necessary to keep them growing and blooming luxuriant- ly. In pruning, some little judgment is required. Some varieties j^roduce their flowers on the wood of last sea- son's growth; hence, care must be ex- ercised in removing wood, or the sup- ply of flowers will be limited. Others produce their flowers on the young wood made in the spring. These may be i^runed more severely. As an illus- tration of this fact, the Spiram pruni- folia bears its beautiful white flowers on leafless shoots of last season's growth, while the Spirwa opalif(jlia, which flow- ers later, blooms on young shoots of the same season's growth. The following is a list of twenty-five varieties of the best now in cultivation: BERRY-BEARING SHRUBS. Callicarpa Americana. — Flowers very small and insignificant. In October, the branches are covered with beautiful purple berries. Propagated by divi- sions of the root and cuttings. Daphne Mezereum — Most fragi-ant of all the flowering shrubs. Blooms in March, and is succeeded by bright scar- let berries. Propagated by layers and seeds. Eiionymus Amer-icanuH, or Burning Bush, sometimes called Strawberry Tree. — A tall growing shrub, covered with bright scarlet berries. IJ. friicta alba bears white berries, and forms a pleasing contrast to the former. It is very easily propagated by seeds, cut- tings, layers, and division of the root. Symphoricarpus racemosus, more com- monly known under the names of Wax- berry and Snowberry; the flowers are insignificant, but the berries are rather pretty in the fall. Sympliora vulgaris, commonly called the Coral Plant — the berries are red, and bear a slight re- semblance to coral beads, easily propa- gated by layers and divisions of the I'OOt. Berbcris atropurpurea. — A variety of the common barberry, with dark pur- ple leaves. In spring it bears a profu- sion of flowers, of a yellowish color, quite pretty, succeeded by berries of a dark color, of no great beauty, yet it THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 75 should be in a collection, on accoiant of its hardiness, retaining- its foliage for a considerable length of time during win- ter. Propagated by cuttings and divi- sions of the root. Amygdalus Persica, or double flower- ing Peach. — The new crimson one is a splendid addition to our collection of flowering shrubs. It frequently bears double fruit, but they never mature. To perpetuate it, it requires to be bud- ded on the common Peach or Plum stock. Amygdalus ijumila is the old double pink-flowered Almond, too well known to need any description. Amygdalus pumila alba j^l^^a, the new double white flowering Almond, is also a great addition. No choice selec- tion of shrubs is complete without it. It is extremely hardy, and easy to prop- agate by cuttings of the root. Andromeda calyculata — Is a dwarf shrub, retaining its leaves all winter, and covered with white flowers in the spring. Andromeda jloribunda grows taller than the above, flowers larger and more abundant. Propagated by seeds, layers, or cuttings. Azalea calendulacea, Orange colored Azalea. — Very showy, but not as fra- grant as the Azalea viscosa or nudiflora, which grows wild in most parts of the country. Cercis, Japan Judas Tree. — This is probably the most showy of all the ear- ly flowering shrubs in cultivation. The flowers are of a rosy pink, and produc- ed so profusely as to cover the branches entirely. Propagated by layers. Cylisus scoparius — Scotch brown, a very graceful growing shrub, of medi- um size, foliage very small, and bear- ing a profusion of pea-shaped flowers of a bright yellow; not perfectly hard}-, yet does well in sheltered positions. Propagated by seed. ^ Cydonia Jajjonica, Japan Quince; a beautiful flower, but the plant, on ac- count of its thorny character, is no fa- vorite with us. Cydonia Japonica alba is a white, or, more properly speaking, a i^ink variety. Both, when planted to- gether, form a pleasing contrast. Prop- agated by layers and dividing the roots. Deutzia scabra grows eight or ten feet high, bearing an abundance of pure white flowers. The new double flow- ered variety is pretty, yet we think it will be some time before it supersedes the preceding one. Deutzia gracilis, a dwarf kind, suitable for early flowering in the house. Propagated by cuttings. Forsythia viridissima, Golden Bell, flowers very early in spring, and retains its foliage until quite late in the season. Easily propagated by layers. Forsythia suspensa, a new weeping variety, flow- ers similar to the above, but much smaller. Halcsia Tetrajiiera, Silver Bell Tree, bearing thousands of white bell-shaped flowers. Propagated by seed. Spiraea. — A beautiful class of shrubs, commencing to flower early in the spring, and continuing until autumn. Spiraea prunifolia bears its flowers on long, delicate shoots. Spiraea Reevesii bears a profusion of white flowers. >S^. fl. plena, a double flowered variety of the former. Billardii, bright red. Callosa, pink flowered. Propagated by cuttings, layers, and divisions of the root. Syringa, Lilac. — The new varieties are very fine. Syringa virginalis, a deli- cate white flower. Persian, purple flowers. S. laciniata, cut-leaved curi- ous foliage. These varieties are valua- ble, as they commence to flower when quite small. Propagated by layers, cuttings, and divisions of the root. Tamariscus Africanus. — Avery grace- ful shrub, growing quite tall, foliage 11 1 iH i ^Md 72 THE cultivated is the Lawt will pick from 100 to 1 day, and it lias required stantly at work to pick one and a half acres du} inpr season. " Health from Flowers ed that an Italian profes. ered that perfumes from chemical effect on the at^ verting its oxygen into increasing its health-im] As the result of his reset that essences of Cherry, ender, Mint, Juniper, Le and Bergamot are amoni develop the largest quanj while Anise and Thyme less degree. Flowers d( fume have no such ei naturally recommends th marshy localities and net ed with animal emanatioi round their homes with the most odoriferous fio-' mendation which the Crj their beauty and fragraj to the senses of all sensif AniANTUM FORMOSUM. named Fern is certainly useful variety. It is verj ted, and can be propag£ mature fronds have also| ity of keeping longer than any other of the sj it is more beautiful than| can not admit. It is grow. I noticed it inj Ferns last year. The rJ to of inverting a smalll inside a larger one, so tl of the pot just touches] the water, is good whei quite filled their pots wit| some Ferns which are UM W*'**' ayjr^f .;llT'?^li^tei others ^■•» tie spring. Uesemay '•^■ownrmly. AsaniUus- •7J«^b«Mtiful white flowers on ^«««<"0«k*8tt8Ml'8 growth, -• ttt Sfmn vpthim, which flow- •■» "OOtt OB young shoots of •■» MMQfi't growth. •^ ^*H » » lirt of twenty-five ■■•*• if tk belt BOW in cnltivation; ttttfjft J»tht«iui.— Flowers veiy '4 mi iMigaificut. In October, ' laiikai Mt ooTtred with beautiful ill Wnm. Piopigitad hy din- «il te mA ttd cuttings. Ivfkit laamai— Mostfra^mitof -'. %i lM«a| Atuba. Blooms in AaA. «i » hmmM I? bii^lit scar- It kmm. hoftpiiid by kyers and „„™^.. J^rittm, or Burning ',^ mmMW aii<F» ~" iiiwi d^-ki IK^ iiBtbitbiln.lMi «^ iiliiQi,a(fl^ aatiT. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 77 stand in the perfection of its growth, an evergreen tree, displaying the verdure of Slimmer amidst, as even in our mild region, the sombre and subdued expres- sion of the -winter landscape. "Glossy-leaved and shining in the snn," it is indeed always a glad and cheering object, as may be seen in the handsome grounds of R. B. Woodward's country place in Napa Valley, where the brill- iant clusters of scarlet berries, which inwreathe its outer branches, contrast and embellish its cone-like mass of en- during gi'eenness. The circumference of the stem and branches of the Holly is small in pro- portion to that of many other trees. This may in some degree be accounted for by the jjeculiar slowness of its growth, (at least in most countries), and the consequent hardness of the timber, the annual deposits of Avoody layers be- ing remarkably small and compact. The bark is smooth and of a grayish tinge, the lower branches sjDread hori- zontally, and when the tree is uninjured by cattle, etc., diverge regularly on each side of the trunk, while the uj^per and lower shoots assume a more ele- vated direction, so as to give the tree a cone-like appearance. "The branch- es," to quote the minute description of Hunter, "are garnished with oblong oval leaves, about three inches long and one and a half broad; of a lucid green on theii' upper surface, but pale on their under, having a strong midrib ; the edges are indented and waved, with sharp thorns terminating each of the points, so that some of the thorns are raised upward ; these being xexy stiff, can not be handled without pain. The leaves are placed alternate on eveiy side of the branches, and from the base of theii- footstalks the flowers come out in clusters; standing on very short foot- stalks; each of these contain five, six, or more flowers." "0 reader! hast thon ever stood to see The Holly-tree? The eye that contemplates it well perceives Its glossy leaves, Ordered by au intelligence so wise, As might confound the atheist's sophistries. "Below a circling fence its leaves are seen, Wrinkled and keen; No grazing cattle through their prickly round Can reach to wound; But as they grow where nothing is to fear, Smooth and unarm 'd the pointless leaves ap- pear." The meaning of the latter stanza is ex- plained thus : "When the tree is allowed to assume its natural form, the leaves on the lower branches alone are fur- nished with these prickles, while those on the upper boughs are, for the most part, destitute of them. Yet handsome as the Holly may be as a tree, it is especially valuable as a hedge-row plant. For this purpose it is most generally cultivated in England and many parts of Europe, and is pe- culiarly adapted, whether we regard its great durability, the impenetrable na- ture of its foliage, the facility with which it bears clipping, and the ever- green character of its tough and pol- ished leaves, unchanged by seasons or blasts, and almost impeiTious to the in- sect tribe. "A hedge of Holly, thieves that would invade Repulses like a growing palisade; "Where numerous leaves such orient green invest, As in deep winter do the spring arrest." Whether our comparatively dry climate would suit it as a hedge-row plant, ex- periment could alone decide. They have excellent hedges of it in many parts of Europe, where the climate is far colder than California. A rich and deep loam is the proj^er soil, a rather moist and sheltered, though not over-shaded place, the situation, in 78 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. which the Holly thrives best; yet it has this further recommendation, that there are but few spots in which it will not grow. Even between the shade and drip of other trees, so uncongenial to almost every other plant, it is uninjured; and in this respect it is unequaled, ex- cept by the Dwarf or Tree Box. The timber of the Holly is hard, white, finely grained, susceptible of a very high polish, and easily stained with different colors : hence it is pe- culiarly suited for inlaying, veneering, and other ornamental cabinet work. It is, however, rather scarce everywhere, and rarely to be obtained in any quan- tity, even in the countries where it is most grown, being too much prized by the owners to be cut down for timber. It is considered to rank next after Box and Pear woods, for wood engravings. Many varieties and sub-varieties have been raised by accident or cultivation from the Holly. The name Holly is evidently a cor- ruption of the word holy, and applied in consequence of being for many ages, and in most European countries, asso- ciated with the sacred festival of Christ- mas. ' Preserving Cut Flowers. — Cut flow- ers in vases will keep much longer if the vases are filled with white sand, and with water enough barely to cover it, or rather to keep it thoroughly wet. Wa- ter by itself rots the stems, so that they lose the power of drawing up moisture; but this does not occur so readily where they are thmst into the wet sand. The sand should be washed by having water poured on it and drained off before use; otherwise, the salt which all sea sand contains will prove injurious. As wet sand is an unhandy thing to put into vases, it is well to have it washed and dry beforehand. KEMARKS ON THE CULTIVATION AND AFTER TREATMENT OF GLOXINIA, GESNERIA, AlfD ACHIMENES. BY THOS. L. WEBB. These are all natives of various parts of South America, and can be brought into bloom at any season by merely regulating their period of rest, so as to prepare them for starting into growth at any time of the year. The remarks that follow may be of some use to ama- teurs not possessed of a good hothouse, and who wish to gi'ow a few of these fine objects in their greenhouse. Before remarking, however, upon the subject of treatment, it will, per- haps, be of some benefit to those who have not paid attention to the cultiva- tion of this class of plants, to state that the leaves are the agents of the bulbs* (or tubers') maturity, and by which they collect and lay up a store of matter so essential to perfection in the flowers; so that it will be readily understood, that whatever has a tendency to pro- mote healthy leaves, tends also to in- duce excellent bloom. The treatment these tropical herba- ceous plants require, so nearly agrees, that they can be classed together for cultivation. The Achimenes are the smallest, with scaly roots, and I find do best grown in shallow pans. The Gesnerias are larger tubers, and named after Conrad Gesuer, a botanist of mer- it, of Zurich. The Gloxinias will form tubers from four to six inches in diame- ter. They were named after Gloxin, a botanist of Colmar. At the present time — January — all those that are not already started into growth, should be stowed away in a dry place on a shelf, at the back or darkest part of the house, or they may be put with their sides turned up, un- der the stage, in a temperature not low- THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 79 er than 45^^ Fahrenheit, for it is not safe to keep the tubers colder, as they are liable to rot; if above 55^, to start into growth. There can, however, be some already started into growth if care has been taken to give the tubers a due proportion of repose. Debilit}^, which is often seen in them, arises from improper management, the vital energies of the plant being nearly ex- hausted for the want of rest. There- fore, those who would cultivate them with success, must carefully attend to periodical resting. As to growing the plants, it is the system of some cultiva- tors to part them after they have com- menced to grow, others, directly after they are removed from their winter quarters. In starting the roots of Gloxinias, (which may be done every six weeks if you have a hothouse) they should be taken out of the old soil, and repotted into four or six-inch pots, according to the size of the tubers, in a compost of light sandy peat and leaf-mold, and a small portion of well-rotted cow-dung, which will enrich it, taking care to give plenty of drainage. The tubers of the Gloxinias and Ges- nerias will only require to be pressed on the surface of the soil. Achimenes will require to be covered with at least half an inch of soil; then j^laced in a warm, close frame in the greenhouse, so that they get plenty of light. There is nothing to beat a pit to grow them to perfection, with a good moist bot- tom-heat from a bed of tan, dung, or leaves — the latter is preferable, being easily procured — also a lasting, nice, sweet temperature of from GO"' to 70°, when they will make a free growth; give them plenty of water. It is as easy to grow good Gloxinias, Gesnerias, and Achimenes, as it is a few Cucum- bers; and an amateur can have them to do well in his greenhouse or pit. Use the syringe rather freely as they grow; and, as the temperature rises it will, with these, as most other subjects, in- duce clean and vigorous growth. The thrip, one of the worst pests of our greenhouses, will attack this class of plants with avidity, more particularly the Achimenes. . Even the bloom will not be spared if they are allowed to get ahead. They can also be well grown in ordinary frames, such as are used in the truck patch. About the middle of March prepare some good fresh stable manure, in the same manner as for ear- ly frame cucumbers, then let the same quantity of leaves be collected and mixed with the dung, sufficient to form a good substantial bed, with a steady heat of about 70*^— let the dimensions of this bed be about three feet larger every way than the frame to be used — cover the whole with six inches of soil of any kind, or sifted coal-ashes, for plunging in the pots or pans. The end of March will be time enough to put in the tubers, taking care to use soil warmed to the temperature of your frame or pit; shut up close for a few days, and give no water. Oj^en the sash every fine morning to prevent the heat rising above 75 deg. Aim at a night temperature of from 55 deg. to GO deg. After a few leaves have shown themselves, water carefully, and sprin- kle over the leaves in the after pai*t of the day, just before the sun is off the glass, and shut up immediately. Should we get a spell of cold weather, and the thermometer indicate a lower tempera- ture, renew the heating material by re- moving the outer portion of your bed by cutting quite to the bottom, then re- place with fi^esh, hot stable dung, or dung and leaves. This will not, how- ever, require so much preparation as the dung for the original bed, as the 80 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. excessive heat will not come in imme- diate contact with your plunged pots, your object being at this time to main- tain a steady heat of 75 deg . Water of nearly the same temperature as the frame, or at least tepid, must always be used at this season — and shade from the mid-day sun. As they start into flower, give more air and plenty of water; and as they expand, remove them from the frame to the greenhouse, first to the warmest, then to the coolest part of the house, to prolong their sea- son of bloom. After they have done flowering, put the earliest batch in a •warm place out of doors. Water mod- erately, each week giving less, to en- courage them to go to rest. Later batches, after flowering, can be placed on their sides under the partial shade of trees, or a wall, where they will get sufficient sun to thoroughly ripen them. By the end of September, or early part of October, they ought to be all brought into their winter quarters until want- ed to perform their routine of work again. The following are a few good showy Achimenes : — Ambroise Verschafi'elt, white, with crimson eye; Carl Wool- furth, fine crimson; Carminata splen- dens, carmine; Longiflora major, violet blue; Longiflora alba, white; Margari- ta, pure white; Meteor, scarlet; Sir Trehern Thomas, crimson; and Mauve Queen. A few good Gloxinias: — Lau- retta, blue; Brilliant, crimson; Fairy, white and violet; Model, pink; Optima, dark rose; Sanspareil, pure white. Of Gesnerias there are Zebrina splendens, Cinnabarina, Donckelaari, Purpurea, Yelutina. There is a great vai-iety of the three species, and all that is requir- ed is a trifling outlay in getting a col- lection, and care. There is a striking Gloxinia that re- quires especial notice, namely, the old, almost forgotten, Gloxinia tuhijiora, which is a very distinct variety intro- duced from south Brazil. The tubers are not unlike potatoes in appearance, and throw out stems, which grow and produce white tube-shaped flowers from two to three inches long. The plant attains nearly two feet in height; flowers from the bottom to the top of the stem. No collection, however small, should be without this variety. It is also delight- fully fragrant. — Gardener's Monthly. PROTECTING YOUNG FEUIT-TEEES. Jonathan Shearer, of Wayne County, Michigan, tells us, that in planting or- chards he has found it an excellent practice to protect the stems of the trees from the direct rays of the sun (un- til the tops are sufficiently large to ac- complish the same purpose) by winding them with a rope of straw. He cites one instance where Api^le-trees thus treated grew fully a third faster than those treated in the usual way. This simple precaution is deemed especially important in cases where persons pre- fer to keep the surface soil clear, as the intense heat reflected in summer from bare ground is thought to be a prolific source of disease in young trees. Some horticultural writers, with the view of obviating this difficulty, have advised planting much closer than is customary, even if part of the trees have in time to ■ be cut away. One has gone a step far- ther, and suggested that it might be well to introduce " nurslings," such as Alders, Poplars, or Willows — of course removing them before they become lai'ge enough to interfere with the roots of the fruit bearers — and thus secure the cool surface which, in orchards, is almost as important as a dry, warm subsoil. — N. Y. Tribune. THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. 81 OKANGE CULTURE. BY J. STKENZEL. [This interesting and valuable article on Orange Culture was corrected by the author from the Farmer's print, for in- sertion in the present issue of the Cali- fornia HOKTICULTUEIST. ] An Orange grove in the far off Sunset Land was one of the dreams suggested to my fancy on reading Fremont's nar- rative of travels in Upper California in 184:0; it was the guiding star on that long journey across the untracked plains in 1849 — through the salty, waterless Llanos Estacados, in the knee-deep road-dust in our meanderings along the Gila River, and on the much dreaded Colorado Desert. When, after thirteen months of wandering, the wide-spread i:)lain of the San Joaquin, gleaming with fiery brightness of fields of Escholtzia, greeted the gaze from the summit of Pacheco's Pass, we praised the Lord that jDermitted us to view this ' ' Laud of Promise." In 1853 I planted the first Orange seed; that grew well, and in 1873 I had realized my dream. During these many years the Farmer has faithfully and ably advocated the State's advancement in Horticulture especially, being always ready to promulgate the experience of workers. I take the liberty to profit by your further indulgence. It is now demonstrated that Oranges can be grown all over California; in fact, I suggest that every home could and should be graced by more or less of this golden fruit of the Hesperides. To insure this, it is well to guide the new-comers in those processes which, if well attended to, will secure in comparatively a few years that success towards which the ef- forts of their predecessors have been directed for a quarter of a century. Vol. IV.— 11. The Orange-tree under favorable con- ditions is a rapid grower; but when those are lacking may remain stationary'' for years. It requires the richest of mellow soil, such as is always well drained, and must have also an abun- dance of surface moisture. Originally a tropical fruit, it gets acclimatized in a more temperate zone, and, with some shelter and in a favorable location, will sustain without injury a temperature of a few degrees below the freezing point. It is a great feeder; the roots spreading over the surface of the ground absorb fertilizers readily, and require all the so- lar heat available; so the trees should have plenty of space, not less than fif- teen feet apart in the rows. They re- quire careful pruning and shortening in, even of the sharp spiny thorns; when this is done, innumerable bearing shoots take their place; thus not only is fruit- fulness promoted, but injury to the fruit during wind storms is avoided. The story of the early history in California fruit culture is rej)eating itself. Then the product of a Peach-tree was set at hundreds of dollars, and fortunes were made by the single rule of arithmetic. The consequences of this inflation are, fewer trees now and decidedly inferior fruit. Some count on two thousand Or- anges to a tree; this multij)lied by the ruling price for the best fruit looks very handsome; so we see the market crowd- ed with little sour, half-ripened, per- fectly worthless fruit, to the injury of the careful grower. Now, in our lati- tude, anything like two or three hundred large, rich, perfect Oranges on a tree in its teens, should satisfy the cupidity even of a "diamond Salter." Orange -trees can be bought now by the thousand, and at a very low price. Thus jjarties wishing to plant extensively can be easi- ly supplied and without a loss of time. But my object in writing this sketch 82 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. is to encourage the new-comer — the man of little means but sturdy arm and will — and more so, our girls, panting for extended spheres of labor. To those I would say, obtain a few of the best flavored and largest ripe Oranges, select the plumpest seed, and plant it fresh in boxes with perforated bottoms, and sides about eight inches high, filled up with rich mellow soil that will not bake, dropping the seeds five inches apart and covering one inch; keep the box in a warm room and the soil damp. When the young plants aj^pear, give plenty of air and sunshine, and sprinkle them every evening with slightly tepid water; if there is no frost apprehended and the nights are warm, keep your boxes out- of-doors, sheltered from wind and burn- ing sun; a screen made of unbleached muslin will answer for both ; fork over the siu'face between the plants occasion- ally, and mulch it toward the midsum- mer with well - decomposed manure. The seedlings should attain the height of twelve to eighteen inches during the season, but be not too ambitious to stimulate an exuberant growth; rather shorten in the rampant shoots and se- cure a stocky symmetrical growth. Dur- ing the winter keep them in a dry airy j)lace, with a temperature never under 33° and not over 60°, and in the spring transplant them to larger and deeper boxes. This is the time to graft them over, if you know of a tree bearing su- perior fruit, or a particular foreign va- riety from which you could obtain sci- ons— otherwise let them be, as the fruit is reproduced true from seed. Seed- lings are the thriftiest and hardiest, make larger and finer trees, and if carefully shortened in, and the forming of fruit buds promoted by nipping the ends of shoots, will bear early enough. All the grafted foreign varieties are more tender, of slender growth, and the few Oranges they bear a year or two earlier do not amount to much generally. Ex- cept in very favorable locations, the seedlings should remain in boxes the second year, affording a greater facility for sheltering them during the winter, and be transplanted out in the open ground the third year. The time of the year for transi^lanting small trees is im- material, provided it is not done during scorching midsummer days; but like other evergreens they should be always lifted with the earth adhei-ing to and covering the roots in a lump. After transplanting, they should be copiously watered to settle the ground, and the trees shaded from the sun for a week and more. In choosing the site for an Orange-grove, former observation is nec- essary to indicate the spot exempt from freezing; a few feet of elevation above the surrounding surface, a few feet to the right or left of the prevailing cur- rents, make a vast difference in the cli- matic peculiarities of a given location. This was well understood by the Dig- ger Indians. Their ancient camps along ■ the banks of creeks, in the innumer- * able little valleys among the hills, are just the places; they invariably combine mellow soil, enriched by the offal of the camp, with nearness to water, and are always the most cozy and sheltered nooks in all the country. In these nooks vines. Tomatoes, Melons, etc,, will remain gi-een nearly all winter, and young plants are not injured by spring frosts. Next, a free supply of water is essential. The holes for the reception of Orange-trees should be four feet in depth and the same in diameter, with a layer of old bones at the bottom, six or eight inches deep, filled up half way with the richest top soil well pulverized, and all drenched with water till thor- oughly settled. The tree with the ad- herent ball of earth is placed in the THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 83 centre a couple of inches higher than it stood before, and the hole filled in. The general rule as to further treatment and pruning must be adhered to. In most parts of the State, the tree when young will require more or less shelter during the cold spells; anything that will prevent a current of air around a plant, after sunset, and consequent reduction of temperature, or sudden thawing after the freeze, will answer; thus boughs of evergreens or even brush stuck around, or a frame of poles cov- ered over with discarded sacks, the shelter of a wall with an overtopping roof, can all be made use of to answer the purpose. The copious sprinkling of the trees at sunrise, after a cold freezing night, is also most effective; also the planting between in alternate rows of evergreen, for which purpose the different varieties of the Eucalyptus are eminently adapted. The foliage on the older trees and the ripe fruit is coated over during the summer with a black rust, considered by some to be a parasitic growth. It washes off easily, without leaving any trace whatever. It appears rather to be an accretion of dust mixed with the ex- uded volatile oil abounding in the leaves and outer rind of the fruit. By copi- ous showering during the summer any injury from that cause can be easily ob- viated. More serious, as affecting the growth of the tree, is the rapid increase of the scale insects; they don't mind the Chamomile recommended by some, but soapsuds or weak lye -washes subdue them effectually. The same processes are followed in raising Lemons. The tree is rather more tender than the Orange, but the fruit is often more profitable. I have Lemon seedling trees bearing as perfect and large fruit as the best of Sicily. Oranges and Lemons can be safely transported long distances, and the market for them is unlimited at remu- nerative prices. There is no possibility of overstocking. Nothing need be wast- ed from the products of this culture; the surplus leaves dried are used in pharmacy, and make a very palatable tea, and should supersede the nerve- unstringing Bohea; the drooping flow- ers are the source of the costly oil, neroli ; the smallest green fruit finds a demand for the best of bitters, the larger for preserving, and the ripe fruit, a luxury in itself, is the best corrective of the injurious effects of a too nutritious and greasy diet; the wood is very firm, elastic and durable, and even the sharp thorns make the best and most fragrant toothpicks. The culture of these two varieties of fruit can fill the full scope of available labor in our State. No girl need be idle, but can raise her dowery in Orange and Lemon trees, each bearing tree at the most moderate estimate represent- ing a capital of one hundred dollars in- vested at the highest per cent. Grouping Plants. — There is no way in which the deadening formalism of our gardens may be more effectually de- stroyed than by the system of naturally grouping hardy plants. It may afford most pleasing results, and impress on others the amount of variety and love- liness to be obtained from many fami- lies now unused. Trees and shrubs, dis- tinguished for their fine foliage, collect- ed in a quiet glade ; and then bright foli- age trees should be set in contrast with quieter colors, and varied with bright beds of flowers and leaf plants, or hardy flowering shrubs. These groups should be irregularly, but artistically, planted. Then, on a knoll, plant a large bouquet of the rosaceous family — Hawthorns, 8^ THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Claerries, Plums, Peai'S, Peaches, Al- monds, etc. There is so much that may be done to add to the bewildering beauty of a landscai^e by naturally ar- tistic planting, that we are often aston- ished that jieople do not "see it." — Rural Nexo-Yorker. APPLES FOR FOOD. Apples are now considered to con- tain far more brain food than any other fruit or vegetable, and to be much more nutritious than Potatoes, which enter so largely into the component parts of every meal. At present. Ap- ples are principally used in the form of puddings, pies, tarts, and sauce, and are also eaten raw, in which state they are more wholesome than when mingled ■with butter, eggs, and flour. But they are served at every meal; and, substi- tuted for j)ickles and such condiments, they would surely be found beneficial. Sweet baked Aj^ples are a most desira- ble addition to the breakfast and tea table, and are far more healthful, ap- propriate, and sustaining, than half of the dishes usually esteemed essential at such times. Served with milk and bread, they make the best diet that young children can partake of, and are very satisfying in their nature. Baked Apples, without meat, are far more substantial food than Potatoes can possibly be made, and to us the deli- cious aroma and flavor are always most appetizing. We would rather go with- out our daily bread than our daily bak- ed sweet Apples. Yet, although there is such an abundant crop of Apples this season, we presume there are many families who will not use a barrel of them for the table this season, but who will devour at least six barrels of Pota- toes. Let us beg of them to equalize the two a little more, and purchase at least three barrels of Apples to five of potatoes. They will find that less flour, eggs, sugar, and butter will be consum- ed in a family when a plentiful supply of Apples is stored in the cellar. One of the most celebrated physicians of Philadelphia eats two raw Apples every evening before he retires to rest, and thinks that they not only supjjly food to his brain, but keep the whole system in a healthy condition. For years I have followed his advice, and am confi- dent that the fruit has been of great service to me. There are dozens of recipes for jire- paring Apples for the table, almost all of them requiring the addition of but- ter, eggs, etc.; but to us either baking, boiling, or steaming makes the most palatable dishes. Our family favorite is pref)ared thus: Wipe the Apples clean, dipping them first into boiling water; then with a corer remove all the seeds . and stem, by punching it through the I Apple. Place the fruit in a deejo bak- ing dish, put a tablespoonful of white sugar into the middle of each Apple; turn in ateacupful of boiling water, with three tablespoonfuls of sugar dissolved in it. Bake in a slow oven till quite soft, taking care not to burn the skins. Take out into a dish and serve with cream ; milk will do, but it is a poor substitute for the richer article; con- centrated milk, however, is as good. The Apples can also be pared, cored, and sweetened, and placed in a deep dish on the upper part of the stove; a large teacupful of boiling water poured over them, and a plate laid over the dish. Boil them until soft, and there is no trouble about removing the skins when eating them. Sweet Apples can be treated in this way, using molasses instead of sugar, if preferred; and they will be delicious in flavor. THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. 85 Pickled Apples are almost as appetiz- ing as pickled Peaches, and are easily prepared. Take one pound of cofifee- cruslied sugar, No. 1, and dissolve it in one quart of cider vinegar; add to it one tablespoonful of whole cloves, two of allspice berries, and two of stick cinna- mon, all broken fine. Boil and skim it for twenty minutes. Put into the syr- up small sweet Apples; let them cook until a broom straw will run through them, but do not let the skins break badly. Skim out into a jar, and turn over the boiling liquor. Small sour Ap- ples can be used, if desired, and the Siberian Crab Apple makes a delicious relish if thus prepared. The ingenious housewife can invent ways of cooking Apples; if the skillful French cooks have discovered three hundred and sixty-five ways of cooking an egg, surely our inventive brains can discover two hundred ways of cooking Apples. Apple short-cake is- a "dainty thing to set before one's king," and most hus- bands appreciate it. Fair friends, let us cultivate the use of Apples for food, and not let them decay in our cellars for want of appreciation. — Cor. Coun- try Gentleman. Compost for Flowers. — In cleaning off the garden and flower borders, there is more or less of leaves, litter, etc., that must be disposed of in some way. Take it and make the basis for a compost heap for the winter; empty all the coal and wood ashes of the house over it, as they accumulate from time to time; save all the bones and refuse of the kitchen, and all the greasy dishwater, and the cham- ber-lye, and add them daily to the heap. Gather, if you can, from the blacksmith shop or elsewhere, iron-filings or scales from the hammering of heated or rusty iron, the parings of horse-hoofs, and, with a little of sharp sandy soil, add them to the heap. This, well mixed, in the spring, will form one of the cheapest fertilizers for all kinds of flow- ers in the open border. — The Horticidt- tirist. EPIPHYLLUMS. These remarkably beautiful flowers are much grown and well understood by all practical men, but there are many young gardeners and amateurs to whom a few words of advice may be of service. Ei:)iphyllums are easily propagated by cuttings taken off at a joint and planted in light sandy soil in well-drained pots, and placed in a warm house, and the soil kept rather dry until they have roots. They should not be exposed at this stage to brilliant sunshine during the middle of the day, but a few hours' exposure to the sun each day is better than keeping them constantly shaded. They may be wintered in a warm green- house, if kept moderately dry at the roots, but they make a better and an earlier growth when wintered in a tem- perature not less than 50 deg. at night, and 55 to 60 deg. by day. It should be remembered that they are at all times impatient of too much moist- ure at the root, and that they like a free and open soil. For established plants there is nothing better than turfy loam, leaf -soil, peat, and very coarse sand, in equal parts. They do not require over- much pot-room : a shift into a pot two inches larger once in two years, if well drained, will suffice to keep them grow- ing and in good health. Those who have their forcing-houses at work, or the convenience of a stove, should shift their stock if required, and then give them the aid of more heat than they would enjoy in a common 86 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. greenhouse. Water sparingly until there are signs of their commencing to make a new growth. After they are fairly started let them have more water and air. By the beginning of June any house will suit them, provided it is airy, and not shaded. They will well repay the cultivator for a little extra care in the spring, as they make an earlier growth with the assistance of a little extra warmth at that season. This gives them more time to make and mature their growth, and larger and more blooms is the re- sult. There are different methods of grow- ing them. Some prefer them on their own roots, while others like to have them on stems a foot or more in height. They are easily grafted upon any of the larger-growing Cacti, so that the stem may be had of any height desired. For my own part, I like to have them on their own roots and grafted on tall stocks, as a greater variety of form is obtained. Specimens on stems twelve inches high, in a six-inch pot, are admi- rable subjects for dinner-table and in- door decorations, as also are dwarf plants on their own roots for filling vases. I have not named any variety to be grown, for the reason that they are so beautiful that I am not acquainted with any one variety that is not worth grow- ing. If I have a preference, it is for E. truncatiim albescens, E. Iruncaluvi craen- tum, and E. trimcaiam violaceum. — R. P. B., in Gardener's Magazine. Remove the Flowers. — The Garden says: "All lovers of flowers must re- member that one blossom allowed to mature or "go to seed" injures the plant more than a dozen buds. Cut your flowers then, all of them, before they begin to fade. Adorn your room with them; put them on your tables; send bouquets to your friends who have no flowers, or exchange favors with those who have. On bushes not a seed should be allowed to mature." RAISINS IN CALIFORNIA. The San Francisco Bulletin asserts that experiments have been earned far enough now to show that all the raisins needed for consumption in the United States can be made in California, and not inferior articles either, but equal to the very best imported. It says : "It does not even require artificial heat or costly machinery, although Grapes can be converted more rapidly by an artifi- cial process. The manufacture of rai- sins is about as simple as that of mak- ing dried Apples. The process is per- fect enough when the Grapes are laid on the dry warm ground. All the vines now in bearing, which do not jjroduce Grapes suitable for raisins, can be changed rapidly by root-grafting. Even the common Mission Grape makes a good raisin, much better than the sec- ond quality of those known to com- merce. Of course, raisin - making re- quires considerable manipulation. It is a business requiring attention to many small details. The bunches of Grapes must be cut off at the right time, spread out to dry, carefully watched, turned over, assorted, packed, and finally put up in the most attractive way. But af- ter all there is not more attention to details than is required in the conduct of a successful daily, There can not be much of a speculation about the busi- ness. Only so many Grapes can be raised on an acre, and if they are of the best sorts, the amount of raisins which can be made will be known in advance. It is doubtful if up to this time the THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 87 vine-growers of tliis State have realized their expectations of profit from their vineyards. Grapes have brought low prices. Wine can not be made profita- bly except by experts. Many vineyards are remote from market. But if there be added this new resource, it will make little difference as to the remoteness of » the vineyard. The fruit-growers have already found a way out of their diffi- culties, by a better process of drying- fruit. The Grape-growers will yet find an important outlet in the same direc- tion." ♦^ — Erroks in Ornamental Tree Plant- ing,— A few days since, in passing *T«o through the pretty village of Warren, the capital of Warren County, Penn- sylvania, I was forcibly, not to say pain- fully, struck by the utter want of taste and judgment displayed by some of the residents, in the matter of ornamental tree planting. In some of the instances referred to, evergreens were planted in the immediate front of the houses, and so near to them that, although they had obtained only a partial growth, the branches had already intruded them- selves into the veranda, thereby not on- ly inconveniencing the residents, but presenting anything else rather than a handsome appearance, and threatening, in the course of a few years, to almost entirely exclude the sunlight from that portion of the premises. Many old residences are open to similar objec- tions. No greater error in taste, or in the important matter of health, can be committed than this. Trees, however beautiful, should never be planted so near the house as to bar out the sun- shine. There is no more effectual meth- od of destroying their beauty, nor a bet- ter plan for introducing disease. I have known houses, thus crowded upon by trees of dense foliage, that became so unhealthy as to be regarded as almost untenable. They were restored to fit- ness for human habitation by removing a portion of the trees that obstructed the sunlight and the free circulation of the air. Another error in ornamental tree planting is the setting of trees of large growth in small yards, and espe- cially as is frequently done in cemetery lots. Just as lofty mountains dwarf ad- jacent hills, so large trees have the effect of lessening to the eye the size of small yards or small buildings. It is sound and seasonable counsel, therefore, to ad- vise all persons who are about to plant ornamental trees adjacent to dwellings, or in small yards or gardens, to have an eye to taste and health. Let them be in keeping, in point of size, with the building or plat they are intended to beautify; and, moreover, let the plant- ing be not so close as to shut out the blessed light of the health-giving sun. — Journal of the Farm. ^. . — . POTATOES AND POTATO CULTUEE. A few weeks hence our farmers must commence planting Potatoes for this year's crop. Perhaps all have their own settled opinions in regard to the best va- rieties and systems of culture, which no words of ours can change. But it may not be amiss for farmers to consider why changes both in varieties and culture have been made during the past few years; also whether we are really making progress, or merely repeating what has been done many times before. As is well known, the Potato is a native of cool climates, although not what we would term cold ones, being found growing wild in high mountain ranges in tropical countries; hence we find that it succeeds far better in the extreme northern part of the Union than in the Middle or Southern States. Vermont can beat 88 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Virg-inia nuy time in growing our com- mou Potato, simply because the climate is more congenial to its growth. Soil certainly lias some effect on the quality of the tuber, as well as its size, but Ver- mont soils are no richer or better adapted to the growth of Potatoes than much which can be found in regions where this plant does not thrive; therefore we must attribute more to the ettect of cli- mate in the production of the best Po- tatoes which come to market, than to soils. There was also a time when a majority of farmers thought it necessary to plant whole tubers for seed in order to obtain a large yield, although there were a few equally successful Avho al- ways persisted in cutting up the tubers for planting. The thousands of experiments made in the past ten years to ascertain the truth in regard to all the old notions as to Potato culture, have proved conclu- sively that a moderate sized section of a large tuber was as good, if not better, for planting than a whole one. The largest yield of Potatoes on record was produced from planting single eyes of a tuber, only one in a hill. Science, the handmaid of all pro- gressive movements in agriculture, as well as in other departments of labor, has also fully demonstrated that a Po- tato tuber is not an individual seed any more than an ear of Corn is one, but that each bud is really a seed as much as a kernel of Corn, and as capable of producing as strong and vigorous indi- vidual plants when separated from the parent tuber, as Corn is when taken from the cob. If a tuber is planted en- tire, only a small number of the buds germinate ; the others perish or are sup- pressed through an overgrowth of their fellows. Now these facts are patent to every man who has given the subject careful consideration, either theoretically or practically; and no matter who or how many may dcciy them, they will remain facts as firmly established as the Atlan- tic Cable, the Pacific Railroad, or any of the numerous other great achievements which were for years pronounced im- possible. We know that there are a few farmers who still adhere to the old plan of planting whole Potatoes, and claim that cutting the tubers is an un- natural process, which is likely to cause degeneration and disease; but we would remind them that cultivating plants at all is an unnatural process, though by its aid we have been able to surround ourselves with nearly all the comforts of civilized life. "VVe have no more desire to see our cultivated fruits, flowers, and vegetables go back to their wild condi- tion than to see civilized nations relapse into barbarism. We have claimed, and still hold to the opinion, that thousands of bushels are wasted every year by planting whole tubers. This waste will probably continue until all learn, not economy merely, but the utter folly of planting whole tubers for seed. It is true that instances are not want- ing where whole tuberg have produced more than pieces, but these are only ex- ceptions to the general rule, just as small, inferior tubers have occasionally produced as much as the large and per- fect ones; but no good farmer would at the present day advocate the continued use of small, half-matured Potatoes for seed. We would not, how^ever, use the very large overgrown specimens, for these may not be any better than the veiy small ones; but the fully develop- ed, thoroughly ripened tubers are always the best, and these are generally of me- dium size, varj'ing, of course, according to the variety. Whether it is best to plant early or late in spring depends very much upon THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. 89 the locality and season; consequently tliere is little room for argument on tliis point. But, as a rule, if the Potatoes come forward before hot weather, they will not only yield better, but the tubers will be of better quality. There is, however, little to be gained by putting seed in the earth until it is warm and dry enough to work easily. Planting is another operation which should be varied according to circum- stances. In a light, dry, warm soil, the seed may be placed deeper than in a heavy cold one, but, as a rule. Potatoes are not planted deep enough to insure a healthy growth and large yield. The tubers are not produced upon the true roots of the plants, as many suppose, but on subterranean branches which spring from the principal stem, mainly above the roots. This being the case, we can readily understand how rather deep planting will facilitate the issuing of roots, and also afford a greater length of stem below the surface for the pro- duction of bearing branches. The hill- ing up of the growing plants so long practiced by the cultivators of Potatoes produces similar results to deep plant- ing, and we have no doubt it came into use long before the reason why it in- creased the yield was known. It is still an open question among our farmers whether deeper planting and level cult- ure is not far preferable to shallow planting, followed by the usual hilling- up process. The tendency, however, among our most extensive cultivators of Potatoes, is to adopt the former system, and we think it is preferable to the latter, es- pecially in warm climates and in dry seasons. Under what is termed level culture, the soil remains comparatively cool and moist, whereas, if thrown up in ridges or hills, it is likely to become hot and dry. But climate and soil Vol. IV.— I'j. should always be taken into considera- tion in adopting any particular method of culture. — N. Y. San. Winter Clothing of Children. — The outer clothing for children should be warm but not heavy, for it is a false notion to suppose that a quantity of heav}^ clothing is good for a child; it only tires, without infusing warmth. Air-tight materials and water-proofs are injurious to health. As a rule, loose textures are warmer and healthier than very close ones; and fluffy materials are infinitely better . preservatives against the cold than close and smooth materi- als. Color has also a great influence on the warmth of clothing; thus white, which is coolest in summer, is also warm- est in winter, and black the reverse. To preserve health, it is also necessary to go out in all weathers; and in no case should the child be too much wrapped up. A short, loose jacket for cold days is a good outward covering, or a soft woolly polonaise — anything, in fact, which is warm without being too heavy, nor preventing the free use of every limb. Heavy clothing engenders undue perspiration, which should be particularly guarded against in the open air, especially at this time of the year. During the time that children are out of their nursery or school-room, the windows should be left open top and bottom; thus the air of the room will be purified before they return to it. (The windows, of course, must be clos- ed before the children enter the room again.) These may seem very trifling and useless hints to many; to others, however, they may not be without value. Children are delicate plants, and to be reared into stalwart trees they need care and thought during the early years of their tender growth. — Daily Graphic. 90 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. / ANNUALS.— (See Frontispiece.) BY F. A. MILLER. Much brightness could be given to our flower-gardens by cultivating a few of the pretty annuals, which form such prominent features in European and Eastern gardens. The expense of ob- taining the seeds is but a trifle, and one package of seed will produce a great number of j^lants, which will flower dur- ing the summer if sown in the spring. The Double and Single Petunias are generally classed as annuals, but with us in California, they are hardy, and will hold out for several years in the open ground. Double Petunias are rarely produced from seed, yet seed can be procured from our seedsmen which will produce a certain percentage of double flowering plants. In reality, the single varieties are prettier than the double ones, and for bedding out are preferable. Many exceedingly fine col- ors are now produced — some of them variegated, striped, blotched, shaded, and mottled with pleasing colors and tints. All of the different varieties may be obtained from seed. The Rocket Candytuft is an improved variety of the old-fashioned Candytuft, and produces most perfect spikes of white flowers two or three months after the seed is planted. The leading colors of this flower are white and purple; of the latter, however, various shades have been produced of late. In our mild localities, such as San Francisco, Candytufts may be had in bloom all the year round, if the seed is planted from time to time. The Phacelia is a native of this coun- try, and its delicate blue flowers are pro- duced in spikes, not unlike the Helio- trope. As a border or bedding plant, it is most desirable, as it will thrive well without the assistance of irrigation. NUTRITIOUS FOOD. Upon this subject a writer in the Phil- adelphia Star says: " I submit the fol- lowing article on food, hoping it may do a little good to the poor class in these pinching times: Oatmeal contains 91 per cent, of nutritive matter; Wheat, 85^ per cent.; Potatoes, 28 per cent.; the best flesh meat, 25 per cent. It may be seen by the above that one pound of Oatmeal contains nearly four times as much nutrition as one pound of beef. We pay for the beef per pound 15, 20, 25 cents; for one pound of Oatmeal we pay 5 cents. "Nearly half the people of Ireland and Scotland live on Oatmeal and Po- tatoes. They do not taste flesh meat once a month. The writer of this arti- cle has not eaten flesh for a year ; he finds himself better physically as well as mentally. His dinner for one day consists of one cent's worth of oaten meal or cracked Wheat, made in the form of mush. He does not do this for econ- omy, but for health. " I woidd like to say a few words before I close this article on Wheat. Wheat contains of the carbonates, or heat and fat producers, sixty-two per cent. ; of the phosphates, the class that supplies the bones, the brain, and the nerves, and gives vital power, both men- tal and muscular, two and a half per cent. ; of the nitrates, the class that sup- plies the waste of muscle, twenty-one per cent. ' ' If Wheat were eaten in its natural condition, without bolting, it would sup- ply all the needed elements in the hu- man body; but in the process of bolting nearly the whole of the jihosphates and nitrates are removed; so that bread made of superfine floiu* will sustain life only a few weeks. The best way to get good Wheat meal THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 91 is to buy of any mill of our city, half a bushel of whole "Wheat, thirty pounds. Either get the miller to grind it for you, or take it home and grind it in your coflee-mills." A New Vegetable. — The Gardener's Chronicle says: " In the current num- ber of the Journal of Botany, Dr. Hance describes a Chinese culinary vegetable, consisting of the shoots of a grass, Hydropyrum laiifolium, wild in North- ern China and Amoor Land, and culti- vated in Southern China in standing water. As brought to market, the " cane shoots" occur in cylindrical pie- ces of a white color, 2^ to 3^ inches long, 1 to 1^ inch in diameter, tapering upward into a conical point, and sur- mounted by the leaves and culm, from which they are readily detached. In taste, the raw shoot is not unlike a half- ripe nut, but it is never eaten uncooked. By the Chinese it is stewed with meat, and by foreigners cut longitudinally into two or three pieces, well boiled, and served with melted butter. Pre- pai-ed in this way, it is stated by Dr. Hance to be one of the most agreeable of vegetables. "It is difficult," says the writer from whom we quote, ' ' to describe its enact flavor, but it is, per- haps, nearer to that of unripe maize, as boiled and eaten by Americans under the name of green Corn, though it pos- sesses a i-ichness and delicacy to which I know no parallel in any other vegeta- ble." The si)ecies in question is nearly allied to the American species, H. escit- lentum, formerly grown in this country. There is little doubt that the Chinese plant would also thrive in our climate, on which account we are glad to hear that Dr. Hance intends to send home living plants. (grtitonat ^'ortfoUo. THE CULTIVATION OF ANNUALS. By the term annuals we designate those plants which live but one year, and consequently require to be raised from seed every year; although in our favored climate some varieties may be induced to renew their growth a second and even a third season by careful ciilt- ivation, and by not permitting them to mature their seed. It is a singular cir- cumstance that on this coast so little attention is paid by amateurs to this class of plants, which, although they may require a little more attention than perennials, yet amply repay by the ad- ditional beauty they bring to the jxir- terre in their charming diversity of form and color, in the exquisite delica- cy of their tints, and the delicious fra- grance of many of them. The present time is the season for cultivating them, and to prepare for them it is only necessary to provide a liberal amount of well-decayed manure, which should be thoroughly mingled with the soil to the depth of nine inches. In sowing the seed it is necessary to remark that one of the causes of disap- pointment is the planting them too deep. For most of the larger seeds of annu- als from ^ to ^ inch is deep enough, while for the more delicate it is a good plan to press the soil with the back of a spade, then sprinkle the seed lightly on the surface and cover it slightly with fine earth, which should also be lightly pressed; it may be necessary from time to time to supply some moisture, but this will require great care, as frequent and heavy watering, particularly with some soils, tends to cake the surface and retard the growth of the young plants. Particular care is also necessary to re- move the weeds, which else will choke 92 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. the young plants. Many varieties will bear transplanting, but as a general rule it is better to leave them where they have established themselves, mere- ly thinning them out, to permit and en- courage vigorous growth. Annuals may be divided into hardy, half-hardy, and tender annuals. The hardy annuals may be sown in the open garden where they are to finally remain; the half-hardy require to be sown either in plunged pots, or in a prepared bed of earth over a gentle hot-bed, in the early spring, and, Avhen they have made some growth, transplant- ed into a like situation until the begin- ning of May, when they should be transplanted into the borders where they are to remain. Tender annuals should be sown about Februaiy or March, in pots of light mold, and j^lunged in a hot-bed. When the young plants come uj) they should be transplanted singly into pots of the smallest size, and again plunged into the hot-bed as near the glass as j)ossible, but shaded from the sunshine. In a week or two, if they have made sat- isfactory growth, they should be again transplanted into the next sized pots. These shiftings should be continued from time to time, according to their growth, until they are in pots of six or eight inches in diameter, according to their nature. Very good varieties of the hardy are. Candytuft, (several varieties) Lobelia, Sweet Pea, Morning Glory, Marigold, Mignonette, with many others. Of the half-hardy we may mention Petunias, Asters, Zinnias, Delphinium, Ten-week Stocks, Phlox Drummondii. Among the tender annuals we may mention the Balsams, Celosia, (or Cockscomb) Portulacca, etc. Some plants though not strictly annual will bloom the lirst year, as the Troprcolum, (Nasturtium) Pansy, Scabiosa, and Ver- bena. We call the attention of our friends to the group of annuals which adorns the present number, and for which our esteemed correspondent Mr. F. A. Mil- ler has written the descriptions. For the i^lates we are under obligations to James Vick, Esq., Rochester, N. Y. WOODWARD'S GAEDENS. This Central Park of the Pacific is still increasing daily in interest for the recreation-seeking public. New ani- mals, new birds, and new fishes are constantly being placed in their several departments. These, with the rich and most attractive Museum of Natural History, are in course of classification in accordance with the natural systems of arrangement of Liunsjus, Cuvier, and others. The objects will all be labeled with the names in the usual Latin terms, with the English names generally added. The visitors, by this means, will be able to refer to the sev- eral objects so designated by the labels, in the several books of natural science or history, so as to obtain a more par- ticular knowledge of thfe external form, geographical habitation, and distin- guishing traits of individual species; and the further interest of the subject mainly resting upon anecdotes of ani- mal sagacity or ferocity, their instinct- ive and almost reasoning habits, and pei-ils of adventure in the wilds of Na- ture; and vegetable forms and beauties in their wonderful diversity and mutu- al relations. Every department of science furnishes an abundant quota of materials for de- lightful observation and instruction, and it is found that every fresh steji in discovery has made the conclusion more reasonable, if not more certain, I THE CALIFOENIA HORTICULTURIST. 93 that the argument of design in the for- mation of Nature, as commonly present- ed, is cumulative, and adds new splen- dor to the illustrations of it. Every be- ing with which we are conversant — eveiy limb and fragment of every being — every atom composing those frag- ments— is discovered to bear on it the stamp of purpose — the veiy autograph of mind. It is a means to an end, or both means and end. In this, as we conceive indisputably correct view of the case, how much ought we to appre- ciate the eflbrts of those who, like Mr.* Woodward, are continually adding to the pleasure and interest of the public, in collecting new objects, both animate and inanimate, for exhibition in these Gardens, and thus illustrating this boundless temple of the creation, very apparently the altar and service of an in-dwelling Deity — irresistibly indicat- ing b}^ innumerable particular instances mind as the agency at work in the uni- verse. SOCIETY NOTICES. Georgia Horticultural Society. — A new society with this title has been or- ganized and holds its sessions at Atlan- ta, Ga. At its meeting this fall, the members filled two tables, each 100 feet long, with fruit of most attractive de- scription— pears, apples, grapes, figs, etc. •» t ^ FAVOKS KECEIVED. Angora Goat," by Landrum & Rod- gers, of Watsonville, Cal. It contains much useful and interesting informa- tion on the subjects treated. The Overland Ilonthly for March is at hand, containing its usual amount of interesting articles, among which "Or- ange Culture in California;" " Geologi- cal Surveys," and " Head-waters of the Sacramento," particularly interested us. We have received a pamphlet entitled ' ' Facts and Figures relative to Wool Growing," and " The History of the CATALOGUES RECEIVED. The Quarterly Catalogue of Briggs Bros., of Rochester, New York, is at hand ; it is a very elegant affair, being handsomely and copiously illustrated on tinted paper. Descriptions are abun- dant, the catalogue of x^lants very full, and prices moderate. We have received the Spring Cata- logue of New, Rare, and Beautiful Plants. of Peter Henderson, 35 Cortland Street, New York; very copious and well il- lustrated; describing and offering many new and desirable plants at tempting prices. Also Seed Catalogue for 1874 of the same firm, equally copious and ele- gantly illustrated. The colored plates of both these catalogues are very beau- tiful. James Fleming, successor to Hender- son & Fleming, address 67 Nassau Street, New York, has obliged us with his Seed Catalogue, which is well worthy of careful perusal by intending pur- chasers. The Annual Catalogue for 1874 of Geo. H. Williamson, Gallatin, Tenn., lies before us; it contains a very good selection of seeds, both of vegetables and flowers. We noticed the Catalogue of Plants of F. Ludemann & Co., Pacific Nursery, San Francisco, Cal., in our last, but had not time to examine it. It is a source of pleasure to us to perceive that the nurserymen and seedsmen of the Pacific Coast are so far awakening to their interests as to publish and dis- tribute catalogues of their stock. We are convinced that this action must THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. conduce to the increase of their trade, by not only affording our own people the opportunity of selection at short notice, but also introducing to Eastern customers many of the indigenous trees, shi-ubs, and plants of this side of the continent. This catalogue, as Avell as those of Miller «fe Sievers and R. J. Trumbull, are well worthy of the attentive perusal of each person. OUE EXCHANGE TABLE. American Agricxdturisl, published by the Orange Judd Company, 245 Broad- way, New York. Subscription $1.50 per annum. An. excellent monthly per- iodical. Prairie Farmer, oflfice 118 Monroe Street, Chicago — a weekly journal of much merit, and well worthy of sup- port. Terms $2.50 per year. Boston Jourmil of Chemistry, devoted to the science of home life; this is a very useful paper. Terms $1 per an- num. Published by Billings, Clapp & Co., 34: Oliver. Street, Boston. PLANTS FOR NORTHERN ANT) SHADY EXPOSURES. In reply to a request of a respected coiTCspondent, we subjoi^ the following list of plants icliich icill grow in a north- ern shady situation, which has been handed to us by our esteemed corres- pondent, Mr. F. A. Miller: Climbing Plants. — Ivy, nearly all the different varieties; Clematis, such varie- ties as integrifolia and tabuhsa; AJcebia quinata, excellent for this piu'pose ; Jas- minum revolutum ( Yellow Jasmine ) ; Honeysuckle (Chinese Evergreen), sweet scented. Floweeisg Shrubs, etc. — Fuchsias, Erica Mediierranea and a few other hardy varieties. Hydrangea, Mjrtle, SoUya heterojihylla, Astdbc Japonka, Vin- ca of different varieties. HEiiBACEors Plants, etc. — Violets, Amaryllui lutea, Anemone, Lily of the Valley, hardy Ferns, Iris, Mimulus, Lo- belia, Myosotis (Forget-me-not), Nar- cissus, Paeony, Auricula, Ranunculus, Sedum of various sorts. German Ivy — Soil and Treatment. — The Itural Keic-Yorh^r auHwers a cor- respondent as follows : ' ' The climbing -sine known as 'German Ivy' is not, in fact, an Ivy, nor any relation of one, but a climbing species of Groundsel from the Cajie of Good Hope. Its right name is Senecio scandtois, a,nd it resem- bles Ivy only in its leaves, which are heart-shaped or angled. The flowers are yellow, and produce abundantly' on old plants which are exposed to the sun and dry atmosphere; but, under such conditions, the jjlants lose their beauty, as the leaves become brown and burnt in appearance. The plant grows rapid- ly in almost any good rich soil; but a light leaf mold, with a little decom- posed barn-yard manure added, is prob- ably the best. Shade ^s indisj^ensable, if a deep rich green color is desirable in the foliage, consequently it is very suit- able for room decoi-ations, and ma}- be trained on trellises or around the walls where the direct rays of the sun never reach it. It is readily propagated from cuttings or layers, any small piece of the vine taking root and growing with great rapidity." Mr. Ptnaert has discovered, it is said, that Lilliun auratum is a grand specific against house-flies — that a small speci- men of it in an apartment will keep it clear of these troublesome insects. i "^iafalltiooa^ THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 95 NEW AND KAKE PLANTS. La Belle Carnation. — Tree or per- petual-flowering Carnations are so val- uable for sui^plviug-, during the winter season, cut flowers for the button-hole and hand bouquet, that we gladly wel- come any addition to our j^resent list of varieties which possesses either distinct- ness or superiority to those already in cultivation; hence the pleasure we feel in directing the attention of our readers thus prominently to the new white- flowering variety. La Belle, and which has been recently introduced to public notice by the raiser, Mr. James Black- ley, Leyton. This variety differs from all other varieties in cultivation in pro- ducing very large and double flowers, possessing the most delightful fra- gi'ance, combined with a remarkably ro- bust and free-flowering habit. As re- gards its constitution, it may be con- sidered the forerunner of a new race of varieties of the highest possible value. Hitherto the greatest drawback to the cultivation of these flowers has been their want of vigor; but in this variety there is no lack of vigor. The speci- men in question was trained to a trellis, about five feet in height and three feet in diameter in its widest j^art, which is completely covered. The trellis, not- withstanding its comj^aratively gigantic dimensions, was covered with a healthy growth, and, although the j)lant had been in full bloom for the last four or five months previously, it was fairly furnished with fully-expanded flowers, and the buds could be numbered by the hundred. From the manner in which it was trained, it was computed that the main stem had attained a length of not less than sixteen feet, al- though the age of the plant at the pres- ent moment does not exceed three years. The growth of this variety is slender and wiry, making rapid progress and producing fresh shoots or flower-buds at every joint. On some of the side-shoots buds were produced at every two or three inches, on shoots averaging from eighteen to thirty inches in length, so that the produce of a specimen of the size of the one to which allusion is here made would be simply enormous; and therefore two or three specimens should be grown wherever cut flowers are in request during the winter season. It may also be trained over the interior walls of the greenhouse where space could be spared for one or more plants; or it may be trained just under the glass if more convenient; but for gen- eral purposes it will probably be found that training to a balloon-shaped trellis will be the most preferable plan. The flowers, which are of the purest white, are very large and smooth, and perfectly double, and highly fragrant, and for either hand or button-hole bou- quets will be found of the highest val- ue. With respect to the means adopted for the production of this specimen, Mr. Blackley has been good enough to furnish us with the following particu- lars: "The compost which has been used, and which would also suit the va- rieties already in cultivation, is prepar- ed by mixing a moderate proportion of road-drift with mellow turfy loam that has been laid by a sufficient length of time for the fibrous roots of the grass to decay. Before using the soil it is necessary to examine it carefully for wire-worms, which must be destroyed, for they are, as most cultivators are aware, great enemies to Carnations, Picotees, and Pinks. They must not be overpotted; and at each shift sink the ball of soil low enough in the pot to bury two or three joints underneath 96 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. the soil. From the joints so buried healthy fibrous roots, which will be of immense value in promoting a healthy and vigorous growth, will be produced. Young shoots will also push from the joints, and from these flowers of the finest quality may be gathered. When planted outside for training over trel- lises or up walls, the border should be top-dressed with a compost prepared as directed above, in such a manner as to bury several of the lowest joints, for the purpose of encouraging the produc- tion of new roots and fresh growth. — Gardener's Magazine. Arundo eonspicua. — We are sur- prised that the beautiful Arundo consjnc- va is not more frequently cultivated as an ornamental plant. To our mind it is far superior to the Pampas Grass, of which so much is thought. It has these advantages over the Pamj)as. Though nearly as large in stature it has much less foliage compared with the flowers, and therefore is not so lumpish in growth, whilst still it has sufficient to furnish it. Then the flower spikes come up in good time in summer, and are in full beauty for some weeks be- fore the bad weather sets in, while the Pampas barely comes into flower before the autumnal rains and frosts mar its beauty. The Arundo, moreover, seems to be quite as hardy as the Pampas, for in dryish situations on the Bagshot sand formation, it grows and flowers freely year after year, while the Pam- elas does no more. The lovers of the picturesque should be on the lookout for so fine a garden ornament. — Gar- dener's Ch ro 1 1 icle . New Oleanders. — Great improve- ment is being made in the Oleander in Europe. White, yellow, and red, and numerous shades of color and forms of flowers. They are being named and distinguished as we distinguish Roses or Dahlias. The Oleander suits our sum- mer climate so well, that a collection of them would be a beautiful sight to see in bloom. A New Race of Violets.— The Florist and Pomologisl says, Mr. Lee of Hammersmith has succeeded in raising a new race of violets, in which the pet- als are flat like a Pansy. It is the re- sult of a cross between Czar and De- voniensis. The flowers are pale blue, sweet, and very large, and Mr. Lee is "not without hope that he will make them in time parti-colored like the Pans}'." The best one he has named Victoria regina. "Golden Fleece" Thyme. — Gold- i leaved bedding plants are scarce, the ^ golden Feverfew being the best known. This yellow-leaved form of the garden Thyme is highly spoken of in the Eng- lish journals. Aquilegia chrysantha is the name finally decided on by Dr. A. Gray, for the long-spurred, golden Columbine, about which so much has recently been said in the horticultural journals. Cineraria ceratophylla is spoken of as a promising silver-leaved plant for bedding purposes. The Moniteur de V Algerie states that, in 1871, the coral fishery employed 131 boats. In 1872, there were 80 more boats. Improved methods of fishing have, however, given equally good re- sults, when compared with those of former years; in fact, there has been an increase in quantity of coral put on the market. New beds of coral have been found near Sardinia, which have drawn many of the Algerian fishermen to the northern Mediterranean. THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. 97 REPORT ON THE FRUIT AND VEGETA- BLE MARKET. BY E. J. HOOPEK. The public, although there is of course at this season hut a limited sup- ply, instead of standing in any fear from a generous consumption of all ripe fruits, as well as of most well cooked vegetables, may with confidence regard them as positively conducive to health. All physicians, of every school — Allo- pathic, Homeoi^athic, Hydropathic, or any otlier branch of the healing art — agree in this respect, however they may difler on other points of medicine, treat- ment, or diet. The very maladies com- monly assumed to have their origin in the free use of Apples, Pears, Peaches, Cherries, melons, and wild berries, are now well known to be quite as preva- lent, if not equally destructive, in sea- sons where there has been a scarcity of one or more of these fruits. There have formerly been so many erroneous ideas entertained regarding the bad effects of fruits, that it is better that now and for- ever a counteracting impression and a full and decisive settlement of the ques- tion should be definitely arrived at, it having its foundation in common sense, in all sanitary laws, and being based on the common observation of the most in- telligent and best informed physiolo- gists. No one, we are sure, ever lived longer or freer from the paroxysms of disease by discarding the delicious fruits of every season, and of every land in which he finds a home. On the contrary, they are necessary for the preservation of health, and are there- fore caused by a wise and munificent Providence to make their appearance at the very time when the condition of the body, operated upon by debilitating causes not always understood, requires their grateful, renovating influence. Vol. IV.— 13. That fruits are naturally healthy in their season, if rightly taken, no one who believes that the Creator is a kind and beneficent Being, can for a moment doubt. And yet, il is true, in some in- stances, of course, that the use of both summer and fall fruits appears some- times to cause fatal diseases, especially in children. Why is this? Because we do not always conform to natural laws in using this kind of diet. These laws are very simple and easy to understand. Let the fruit be ripe when you eat it, and eat when you require food, but not so much just after dinner or any full meals. Let fruit form part of the meal, but not after satiety has ensued. Fruits that have seeds are much healthier than the stone fruits, though these latter may be partaken of in moderate or small quantities at a time. But all fruits are better for very young children if baked, or cooked in some manner, and eaten with bread. The French nearly always eat bread with raw fruit. Apples and winter Pears are very excellent food for children — indeed, for almost any per- son in health — but best when eaten for breakfast or during dinner. If taken in the evening, just before retiring, fruit often proves injurious. The old saying that Apples are gold in the morn- ing, silver at noon, and lead at night, is pretty near the truth. Both Apples and Pears are often good and nutritious, when baked or stewed, for those deli- cate constitutions which can not bear raw fruit. Much of the fruit which too often appears in our markets, evidently gathered when unrijie, might be ren- dered fit for food by preserving in sugar. Ripe currants are excellent food for children, and an excellent remedy for thread and other worms. Mash the fruit for this purpose, sprinkle it with sugar, and with good bread (and no country affords better than California), 98 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. let the cliildren eat of this fruit freely. Unripe vegetables are as insipid and unwholesome as unripe fruits. As to the quality of vegetables, the middle size are i^refcrable to the largest or the smallest. But allowance must be made in this latitude, with its stimulating cli- mate and rich soil, for vegetables as well as fruits being naturally larger, nay, even gigantic, than in most other coun- tries. It is usually considered that most fruits and vegetables are more tender, juicy, and full of flavor, just before they are quite full grown. Freshness is their chief value and excellence — and one should as soon think of roasting an ani- mal alive, as of boiling a vegetable, or preserving or cooking a fruit, after it is dead. The eye may easily discover if they have been kept too long; they soon lose their beauty in all respects. Roots, greens, salads, etc., and the various productions of the garden, when first gathered, are j)lump and firm, and have a fragrant freshness no art can give them again, though it will refresh them a little to put them into cold spring water for some time before they are dressed. If vegetables are not thor- oughly boiled or cooked tender, they are tremendously indigestible, and much more troublesome during their stay in the stomach than the most under done meats or breads, etc. But, again, if vegetables are too long over the fire, they lose their beauty and flavor. As to our markets, toward the latter part of last month (February), the re- turn of pleasant weather brought in a more liberal suj)ply of vegetables. Mushrooms and Cucumbers were cheap- er, and Rhubarb was more j^lentiful than before that time. Spinach was 8c. and new Potatoes Gc. per lb.; Let- tuce, 20 to 25c. per dozen; Salsify, 8 to 10c. per bunch; Potatoes, by the sack delivered, $1.50 to $2 per 100 lbs. Prices in the fruit market, toward the end of last month, were without si)ecial change. Apples, Oranges, Lemons, and Limes were plentiful. Pears were very scarce, and commanded fancy prices. Bananas were 50c. per dozen; Smyrna figs, 35c. per lb.; Apples, by the box delivered, $1 to $2.50; Italian Chest- nuts, 50c. per lb. Mammoth specimens of Shaddock Oranges were ofi'ered about the 20th of February at 50c. each; Cit- rons from Los Angeles County, 15c. each; Oranges, Loreto and Los An- geles varieties, 25c. to $1 per dozen. Cucumbers were getting more plenti- ful and cheaper, being quoted at 35c. each; Green Peas were up to 20c. per lb.; Cabbage Sprouts quoted at 10c. per lb.; Artichokes, 7oc. per dozen; Jerusalem Artichokes, 6 to 8c. per lb.; Asparagus, 50c.; Mushrooms, 25c; Col- rabi, 25c. per dozen. On the 27th of February, vegetables improved slightly in quality, but the descriptions remained the same as they had been about the middle of the month. Some descrip- tions were getting scarce, and a stiffen- ing in prices was the result. About the 1st of this month (March) Pears were almost out of market, and the few ofi'ered weref high in price. The price of Apples was very much re- stricted, and strictly choice pellow New- town Pippins retailed, by the box, at $3 to $3.50. Los Angeles Oranges came forward freely and met with an active demand. Bananas were 50c. per dozen; Smyrna Figs, 35c. per lb.; Apples, by the box delivered, $1.50 to $3.50; Ital- ian Chestnuts, 50c. per lb. The temporary suspension of the col- lection of the import duties upon for- eign semi-tropical fruits through the late construction of the revenue law re- lating to them, has resulted in a mark- ed depreciation in the prices of some descriptions, more particularly Lemons, THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 99 wbicli are selling at 25c. to $1 per doz-' en. Imported Oranges are also much cheaper than native grown, partly on the same account, and partly owing to their being inferior in quality. Banan- as are selling all the way from $1.50 to $5 i^er bunch, and 50 to 75 cts. per dozen; Preserved Bananas, recent im- portation, 25 to 37^ cts. per package. Domestic fruit, excepting Oranges and Lemons, is becoming scarce and poor. The last Oregon steamers brought down large consignments of Newtown, Spitzenberg, Red Cheek, and Swaar Apples, which are offered in the stalls for 8 cts. jper lb. The return of pleasant weather has brought a more liberal supply of vege- tables. Mushrooms and Cucumbers are cheaper, and Rhubarb is more plen- tiful at the last two weeks' prices. Prices in the fruit market are, about the middle of this month (March), with- out much change. Apples, Oranges, and Lemons are plentiful. Pears are very scarce, and command fancy prices. Variegated Vincas. — The best known Vinca (F. minor) is a common garden plant, and is known as Periwinkle or Running Myrtle. In old gardens, its creeping stems cover large patches with bright green foliage, from amongst which delicate blue flowers appear ear- ly in the spring. The large Vinca ( V. major) is less hardy and not so common. It has larger and more rounded leaves than the other. Both these species have produced varieties with the leaves marked with yellow in such a manner as to make them decidedly ornamental plants. These variegated forms are fre- quently used for hanging baskets, but they do not hold their leaves perfectly during the winter, and are not well suited for house cultivation . For bas- kets and vases outside it, they are most useful plants; and when planted in a basket or vase, they hang over the edge vdtla. a very fine effect. — Ex. (^&xv0\mu\nm. POMONA AND CERES AT HOME IN THE MOUNTAINS. BY DE. HENET DEGEOOT. Weaveeville, Trinity Co., C.vl., Feb., 1874. Mr. Editor: — Though the Horticult- urist often reaches and never fails to in- terest at least a few of us in this far north country, we seldom see much in it de- scriptive of the floral beauties or of the horticultural and pomological resources of Trinity County. Nor is this at all strange, considering that she lies almost up to the forty-first parallel of north latitude, and that nearly the entire area of the county consists of lofty ridges and broken hills cut everywhere by deep and precipitous canons. To the world abroad. Trinity has been little known, except for its rich gold mines, its numer- ous streams, magnificent forests, and granite mountains; and while it stands to-day the foremost county in the State as regards its mining opportunities and prospects, it has still capabilities of soil and climate that rank it second to none as a fruit-growing district. Such Ap- ples as are raised here are never pro- duced at points much farther south, however favorable the location. Neither are the Peaches, nor other description of fruit, excelled by any grown else- where, either as regards size or flavor. SOME OF THE ORCHARDS HERE are marvels to see, even so late as De- cember and January. Of these or- chards, the most famous is tbat of Mr. Joseph McGillivray, on the Trinity Riv- er, fifteen miles below this place. Here were to be seen hundreds of bushels of 100 THE CALIFOKNIA HOKTICULTURIST. Apples and Pears banging on or lying underneath tbe trees throughout the entire fall and early winter, with no one to pick or care for them. And such Apples! I have never seen an3'thiDg like them in the San Francisco market, nor even in Oregon—so large, so fair, and so luscious! Not an Apple or Pear but was perfection itself — so immense, solid, juicy, and tender! — every one without spot or blemish! Here, for tbe first time, I found the Spitzenberg possessing the true old-time flavor, though the Ap- ple of New England growth, in which I so delighted in boyhood, was a pigmy beside these. The season of the earlier fruits was already over when I visited this spot about the first of December. But there had been gathered an extraordinary crop of Peaches, Apricots, Plums, Cher- ries, etc. — all splendid fruit, equally as fine as the Apples and Pears — while the Grapes still hung on the vines, and the Almond-trees, thrifty beyond measure and loaded to exhaustion, were covering the ground with their well-perfected nuts. The proprietor of this orchard has resided here, farming and mining, for over twenty years. He began set- ting out trees at an early day, selecting the very choicest varieties of fruits from the first; and having extended his plant- ing gradually, has now over sixty acres covered with this description of trees, the most of them in full bearing. For some years, at first, his orchard proved a source of profit to him; but latterly, this has not been the case, the market for these products having been limited. As time wore on, the most of the house- holders here betook themselves to plant- ing trees and vines, so that now nearly all have fruit enough of their own rais- ing, and there are few to buy of the large orchardists and viniculturists. Mr. McGillivray, a big-hearted, liberal- ly educated Scotchman who Jives here with his fam^'Jy in a soc^o of baronial profusion, suffers whoever will to come and help themselves to what fruit they want — a privilege of which his near neighbors, more especially the miners, eagerly avail themselves. At the time I visited this place, the owner having filled many large bins in his 1 'arn with Apples and Pears of the varieties best suited to keep, had tamed his entire stock of horses, cattle, and swine into his orchard to feed on the fruit as it dropped off; and yet the ground unc'c' many of tbe trees was covered with it, there being more than the animals could de/our. Only a little inferior to the McGilli- vray orchard, in extent, scarcely at all in variety and excellence of fruit, is that of Dr. Ware, situated one mile above Weaverville, where also hun- dreds of well-filled bee-hives ai'e to be seen — this insect thriving amazingly iu a country so abounding in w'ild flowers and honey-bearing shrubs and trees. Over on the Hay Fork, a branch of the Trinity, are many fire orchards; also a large ard thrifty oae at the oldLowden Homestead, on the main river, wiu'i a great number scattered thioufihout the couniy — fruit being ev^erywhere so plentiful as to have little or no sale. Here in Weaverville nearly every house is buried in trees, vines, and flowers — the main street being ]ijied with CoLfcou- woods, wuich, having been plau^edin the early days of the town, have now attained large proj)ortions. While fruits and flowers of nearly every kind grow so luxuriantly here, the cereal crops can be brought to per- fection with little labor,jand often with- out irrigation. The most of the cereals sown are, however, cut for hay, as there are but few natural meadows in the county, except such as are located iu THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 101 mountain basins not easily reached. In the matter of wild flowers and forests, Trinity is not surpassed by any section of country on the coast, there being found here a greater variety ol woods and shrubs than in any other part of Califor- nia; a featiire due in part, no doubt, to the fact that the coast and the Sierra Ne- vada mountains come in together at this point, bringing each its peculiar growth of trees, plants, and flowers, and com- mingling them here. By this means both the flora and the botany of this region have been greatly diversified and enriched. Thus, we have here among trees, the Madrofia, Alder, Chincapin, Laurel, Sycamore, and Redwood prop- er, with a great variety of berries, rare- ly fojnd elsewhere than on the Coast Range, intermixed with several species of the Oak, Cedar, and Pine, common oaly in the !^ierra Nevada, while suc^ trees as abound in both these ranges are all met with in the mountains here, frequently growing in the greatest pro- fusion. Tne saDie peculiarity distin- guishes also, in a considerable degree, the grasses, the flowering plants, and the shrubs. In passing lately over Bulkey Fill, lying eight miles east of and between this place and the main Trinity, I no- ticed standing on the very summit of the ridge a low shrub-like tree resem- bling the Cypress, being thickly branch- ed and of perfectly conical shape, but of a species entirely unlike any I liave before seen on this coast. I was after- ward informed by Captain George At- kins, who has travelc'l much over this region, being withal a close observer, that the tree is not only s" I generic, but that it is the only one of the kind he has ever seen, and he is quite certain that it has not its dUj^ilicate anywhere in the neighbochood. Being very beauti- ful, and most likely an entirely new species, this tree should command the attention of botanists. Should this screed meet with favor- able consideration, I may hereafter have something more to say about the J/ocnol- ogy, Horticulture, Flora, and Botany of " Old Trinity." Nourishment of Buds through the Bark. — In Comptes Eendus for Novem- ber is an article of much interest, by M. E. Favres, detailing the results of some experiments made by him to determine the direct S' lurce of supply of food to the buds of trees. The trees selected for the experiments were the Mulberry, Walnut, and Cherry Laurel. Three kinds of experiments were instituted: 1st. The removal of a complete or partial ring of bark. 2d. Separating flaps < r strips of bark bear- ing buds. 3d. A combination of the two preceding methods. On the Walnut and Laurel a complete ringing of a bi:anch was followed by early death of the buds above it, but a narrow bridge left safiiced to sec are continued growth. The erposed woo-l was in all cases protected from the air. If the ringing is ^lerformed aiuund the bad instead of arojinl the branch, the same results followed. In all these ca- ses starch is found in the ]mds below the ringing, but above it is soon ex- hausted by the growth of the bud, and when the supply of starch is exhausted the death of the bad follows. There is no difficulty, M. Favres ob- serves, in proving the ascent of nour- ishment by the bark, if a strip bearing a bud be detached, except its lower end, from a Mulberry during the season of active vegetation. A strip of bark with a bud separated the 20th of June, made a branch twenty 102 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. inches long by tlie end of August. The Walnut gave tlie same results, with abundant cellular exudation on the in- ternal face of the .strip, which must be kept from drying, but which did not show quite as great growth as normal branches. A strip of wood may or may not be left on the detached bark. If a branch be ringed at short intervals, the buds in the intervals will die in a time proportionate to their distance from the lower ring, and the starch will be found wanting in such intervals, conclusively proving the passage of starchy matter to the bud by means of the bark. Strength of Timber. — The strength of a piece of timber depends on the part of the tree from which it was taken. Up to a certain age the heart of the tree is the best; after that period, it be- gins to fail gradually. The worst part of the tree is the sap-wood, which is next the bark. It is softer than the other, parts of the wood, and is liable to premature decay. The deleterious component of the sap-wood is absorbed, if the tree is allowed to grow for a long period, and in time the old sap wood becomes proper timber-fibre, similar to the heart-wood. Hence, the goodness of a tree for timber purposes depends on the age at which the tree was cut down. When young, the heart-wood is the best; at maturity, with the excep- tion of the sap-wood, the trunk is equal- ly good throughout; and, when the tree is allowed to grow too long, the heart-wood is first to show symptoms of weakness, and deteriorates gradually. The best timber is secured by felling the tree at the age of maturity, which depends on its nature, as well as on the soil and climate. The Ash, Beech, Elm, and Fir are generally considered at their best when at seventy or eighty years' growth, and the Oak is seldom at its best in less than on hundred^ years, but much depends oi surrounding cir- cumstances. As a :le, trees should not be cut before arr ing at maturity, because there is thf too much sap- wood, and the durab ty of the timber is much inferior to iat of trees after they have arrived at leir full develop- ment. The Petunia. — Th' Petunia is really one of the most valu >le summer flow- ering plants we hav Not much for cutting from, it is tie, but still they are so easily grown, nd so indifferent to heat and drough so continuously flowering, and flowe^ag in so many of its shades of color ) gaily, what in these valuable partulars can excel them ? There is, besides a this, some novel- ty in them. We r'ollect very Avell when te hPetunia fir came into gener- al notice as a cultiva d flower. It was then a pale rose colo, and not half the size that it is now. . few years after, the big, coarse, whii flower kind got into our gardens, ai since then there have been numerou^forms and shades of color ranging b^ween white and rose. The florist 1 s taken hold of them and produced istinct races, and given them fancy na es borrowed from aristocratic people, as if that is the proper course to pu) xe in making aris- tocratic caste in P:uniadom. Some of them are very seet, especially at nightfall, and theiiodor attracts the night-moths, until ajed of Petunias of a light summer even rg is by no means a small attraction in t3 most pretentious garden. And then ley can be had so easily. A ten-cen paper will give plants which will fl( 'er where they are sown in six weeks af nvards. — German- town Telegraph. Its Qj^ft^* Fffl* S:«J tfiFi^' (StToltheloii- 4 ;:-::« W •»•••' THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 103 Feeding Stock vtith Profit. — In theo- ry a fattening animal can not be overfed; but in practice the limit of excessive feeding is fixed by the animal's power of assimilation. The feeder must con- sider various circumstances, such as the quality of the food — for if it be rich and lavishly used, a large quantity will be ejected in an undigested state — the state of the animal, his age and condition. Lean animals, for example, are unable to appropriate an enormous amount of highly nutritious food, and they are liable to be very much upset if they are fed too fast until they have begun to move in the right direction. They should be kept on cheap and bulky food till their powers of assimilation have improved with their condition, when they should be pushed on more rapidly. The art of fattening depends on sup- plying an excess of food judiciously. A mature animal needs a certain amount of food to maintain him in good condi- tion, and the greater amount he can be induced to take over and above this fixed quantity, the faster will the pro- cess of fattening proceed, and the small- er will be the waste of that portion of food which goes merely to maintain life, and which must, therefore, be lost in a sense to the feeder. — N. Y. Herald. The Japanese Apple. — A correspond- ent writes T/ie Tribune as ioWowa: "The Pyrus Mcdus florihunda is a very beauti- ful shrub when in bloom, and is covered with an extraordinary profusion of flow- ers. It has been flourishing in this country for the past two years, giving entire satisfaction in every way. All such additions to our list of hardy shrubs, combining all the requisites for general cultivation, should receive the notice that their merits deserve. A strong plant in the writer's collection. now just going out of bloom, has been one of the chief points of attraction to all visitors for the past two or three weeks." Ax Enormous Grape -Vine. — The "Lord Raleigh Grape-vine," which was growing when Sir Walter landed at Roanoke Island in IGIO, and was then but three inches in diameter, is now spoken of as one of the largest vines in the world. It covers one and a half acres, and last year yielded 4G barrels of wine — 1,480 gallons in all — which sold for $2 per gallon, yielding $3,680. There is a Scuppernong Grape-vine in Terrell County, North Carolina, which is said to be much larger than the Ra- leigh vine, and to produce at least a fourth more wine. The wine from the vintage of last year from this vine meas- ured 2,520 gallons, and brought the handsome sum of $5,040. English Trade in Roses. — A maga- zine writer says: We could name sev- eral nurseries where from 120,000 to 150,000 Briers are budded annually, and several more where the number averages from 30,000 to 00,000. One of our friends in the trade invests annu- ally £2,000 in Briers and labor in mak- ing out-door Roses. Having cast up a series of totals of this kind that we can pretty well rely on, we are satisfied the sale of Roses must considerably exceed a million annuall3^ If we reckon these worth one shilling each, the total cost to the public will be £50,000. But we have yet to consider the pot Roses, and the new Roses, and all kinds of odds and ends of a commercial nature of which Roses are the subject, and we shall probably have to add an equal amount for these, which brings up the total to £100,000. That this is far be- 104 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. low the actual amount that changes hands in this country on Roses is made evident by the larc^e sums our nursery- men pay to the i'rench raisers eveiy year for their novelties. Warming Small Greenhouses, — An English journal says that a gentleman ■who had a small greenhouse of half hardy, not tender plants, employed at first no heat but gas, during cold snaps. The gas was however found ruinous to the plants, and he substituted cheap paraffine lamps, distributed in different parts of the greenliouse, with entire success. In the colder winters of this country, the same means of soften- ing the severity of the temperature might be adopted, provided tl'e half hardy plants selected were suflficient to bear some cold, or in smaller green- houses or plant cases. Button-Hole Bouquets. — These ele- gant little sprays are no longer confined to masculine use. Small gold and sil- ver tubes are constructed for ladies, with a pin at the ba^ck, by means of which they fasten a Tea Rose, a Gardenia, a sprig of Heliotrope, a leaf of Geranium, and a scarlet blossom of some kind, at the left of a lace necktie or tulle scarf, instead of a brooch. Of course the col- ors of flowers are chosen to suit the taste and the dress, but they are always small, choice, and fragrant. Violets are in great demand. Standard Honeysuckles. — An ex- change gives the following directions to trim the Honeysuckle into a bush form, giving it great beauty and effect: Buy a plant of it, train or tie to a stout stake, prune freely but not too severe- ly, give good soil and culture, and "it will grow into a plant that will aston- ish, by its flowering capacity, thousands wlio have not seen it so trained." A Fine Gingko Tree. — In the Botan- ical Garden, at Pisa, Italy, is a Gingko tree, Salishuria adianlifolia, which has attained the height of nearly ninety feet, and at three feet from the ground is nine feet seven inches in circumfer- ence. It was received from England, and planted in 1788. It is a splendid tree, and very remarkable for the rich ffolden color which the leaves assume before falling. 3IET£0:0WGCCJ L LEGO. ID, FoK thm: Month EndtnG Fkb. 28th, 1874. (Prepared for The HosTictTLTrETsx by Teo?. Tennent, Mathematical Instrument anil Chrononietcr-maker, No. 423 Washington Street, near the Post ''fllce), BAEOMETEE. Mean height at 9 a. m 30.14 in. do Viv 30.13 do 3P.M 30.12 do 6 p. M 30.12 Greatest height, on the 5th at 1'2 m 30.37 Least height, on the 17th at 6 p. m 29.82 THEEMOMETEE. ( With north exposure and free, from reflected heat.) Mean height at 9 a. m 47'^ do 12 m 5.3^ do 3 P. M 54° do 6 p. M 49^ Greatest height, on the 20th at 3 p.m fiOo Least height, on the 18th at 9 a.m 4'io SELF-EEGISTEEINtV THEEMOMETEE. Mean height during the night ... 41° Greatest height, on moruiugs of 2d and 9th 47° Least height, on mornings of 2Gth and 27th 3G° WINDS. North and north-east on 11 days; south and south-east on 4 days; south-west on 0 day*; east on 3 days; ■west on 2 days; north-west on 2 days. WEATHEE. Clear on 13 days; cloudy on 10 days; variable on 5 days; rain on 10 days. EAIN GAUGE. February 1st 1.54 inches. ah. 9th. loth. 11th., 12th. 1.3th. 14th . 2()th. 17th. 0 01 0.05 0.12 0.12 0.19 0.79 0.08 0.06 0.18 Total 1.83 Total rain of the season up to date 18 .97 JOB PRIITIIG OF EVERY DESCRIPTION Executed at this Office ! If ril 104 THE CALIFOiNIA HORTICULTURIST. low the actual amount that chages hands in this country on Roses is ;ade evident by the larc^e suras our nuiery- men pay to the I'rench raisers fery year for their novelties. Warming Small Greenhouses. -An English journal says that a gentinan who had a small greenhouse of half hardy, not tender plants, emplo^d at first no heat but gas, during cold saps. The gas was however found ruiuas to the plants, and he substituted leap paraffine lamps, distributed in ditrent parts of the greenhouse, with itire success. In tbe colder winters o this country, the same means of st'ten- ing the severity of the tempeiture might be adopted, provided tb give good soil and cultj will grow into a plant tl ish, by its flowering capacity, thousands who have not seen it so trained." A Fine Gingko Tree. — In the Botan- ical Garden, at Pisa, Italy, is a Gingko tree, Saliahuria adiantifolia, which has attained the height ot' nearly ninety feet, and at three feet from the ground is nine feet seven inches in circumfer- ence. It was received from England, and planted in 1788. It is a splendid tree, and very remarkable for the rich erolden color which the leaves assume before falling. METEO-ZQT.OGICA L HEGOj 2D, Fob th-: Month Ending Feb. 28th, 1874. (Prepared for The Ho«TiciTi,TrR»sr l)y Tr op. Tennent, Mathematical Instrument and Ohronomcter-maker, No. 423 Washington Street, near the Post ' 'ftlce) . BAKOMETEB. Mean height at 9 a. m u 30.14 In. do 12-v 30.13 do 3 p. M 30.12 do C p. M 30.12 Greatest height, on the Sth at 12 m 30.37 Least height, on the 17th at 6 p. m 29.82 THEBMOMETEB. ( With north exposure and free from reflected heat.) Mean height at 9 a. m 47" do 12 m 53<^ do 3 p. M 64° do fi p. M 49° Greatest height, on the 20th at 3 p.m 60o Least height, on the 18th at 9 a.m 42o SELF - BEGISTEBINO THEBMOMETEB. Mean hciyht during the night ... 41° Greatest height, on nuiriiings of 2d and 9th 47° Least height, on mornings of 2il, aliLl tu p. 0 unsiu: .iter ear; •• ■• '!■•'" ,, -. aich we i-.. oon- and which alone ei As sorb thp inoi;^ any Cfv^.i: t: : <■ ■)• !, if to ftb- at 106 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. ing a Camellia plant may be set into one of a larger size, and the space be- tween may be filled up with sand, which will answer every purpose as well as plunging. 4th. Exposure to violent heat, as di- rect sunshine. The Camellia requires partial shade and a cool temperature. Some of our florists are in the habit of forcing these flowers when they find a large demand for them; for instance, about Christmas and New- Year. I am of opinion that forcing is detrimental to the plants, and frequent forcing is likely to destroy them. Give your plants all the airing and ventilation you can, andin'otect them from the hot sun, and they will keep in a healthy con- dition. 5th. A close dry atmosphere, and the burning of coal or gas in the room where the plants are kept; this will kill almost any plant. "When it is necessary to burn gas or coal, the j)lants should certainly be removed for the time be- ing; and during dry and warm weather, a frequent syringing with water will be most beneficial. Gth. Frequent surface watering, in not sufficient quantity to penetrate the soil to the depth of the pot. When you do water your plants, water them thoroughly, so that every particle of the soil may be moistened. If done in this way, not more than two waterings per month will be necessary, unless the weather is very warm and the atmos- phere unusually dry. Remedy all these defects in treatment, keep your plants clean and free from dust, and I am quite certain that Ca- mellia culture will be more successful in the future. Our climate is a most excellent one for Camellias, and they might be planted almost anywhere in the open ground, if proper shelter from strong winds and protection from the direct rays of the hot sun were pro- vided. "SCIENTIFIC GAEDENING." The transition from grafting to bud- ding is natural enough. Those twenty white stakes stand as so many monu- ments of another horticultural disaster. On a September day, twenty buds, so rare that the original stock could not be bought at any price, had been deftly slipped into as many "suckers," which had come out from the roots of as many Rose-bushes. The next sjoring they were set and staked, and each was about as precious as the right eye of any ama- teur horticulturist. The small buds had developed into branches a foot long; gi-eat double peerless Roses had been hanging pendent from the original stocks — Roses with regal names and ti- tles. There would have been twenty glorified specimens of Floriculture to- day, but for that foreign gardener who had been " educated in the best schools in Europe," who knew everything, and could not be told anything. Roses must be cut in to make new wood. Be- fore night he had clipped those twenty standards each below the bud, and had taken himself ofi' with his diabolical shears, his insufferable conceit, and his rustic innocence. He never came back to look at the work of his hands, nor to hear the wish mildly expressed that a pair of shears might be invented which would shorten the stature of that gar- dener at least a foot. There was a spe- cial aggravation of the case, because we had been nursing a theory for years, that by splitting two Rose-germs of dif- ferent kinds and putting the odd halves together, if growth could then be in- duced, there would be a hybrid Rose — either the color of the one would be distinct on one side, and the other THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTUEIST. 107 on the opposite side, or the Eose would be mottled, having red and white spots on each leaf. This Siamese bud had started finely. Bad luck to the garden- er's shears which abbreviated that ex- periment, and enveloped the vexed question again in darkness.. — Overland Monthly for April. FIG CULTCKE. BY DB. J. STEENTZEL. The tree 6i the Garden of Eden, pro- ducing one of the most luscious fruits, should be more largely cultivated in California. No fruit-tree is easier j^rop- agated, longer lived, or more thrifty under ordinary' care; none a more pro- lific or abundant bearer. The fruit, wholesome and nutritious, is easily pre- sented for futiu-e use by drying, and is thus adapted for a staple article of food in oui' favored clime. The Fig-tree thrives best in a rich, mellow soil, and requires a copious supply of water during midsummer, on any of oiu' uplands or diy soils, to pro- duce large and well-ripened fruit. It is propagated from cuttings of the pre- vious year's growth, or by sprouts from stool-plants or around the butt of a tree. These last are partially rooted already, and will make a fine growth during the first season, and begin to bear the year following. This very facility of propa- gation appears to be a barrier to the further improvement of the Fig by the production of new and choice varieties from seed, which calls for the best ef- forts of our nurseiymen in that line. Considering the gi-eat difference in the quality of the fruit and in the growth of the trees of the same variety, when raised under favorable conditions, it is presumed that the seedlings would also vary, probably with great improvement both in size and flavor of the finiit. The fruit of the Fig-tree forms in the axilla; of the leaves. The so-called first crop is on the previous year's growth; the second crop is developed with the new wood during the season, and is checked only by lack of moisture in the soil,' or by the autumnal frosts. This peculiarity of growth induces long and straggling branches, disturbing the sym- metrical beauty of a tree, and by which its vitality and power to produce fruit are also impaired; but with a little care in regard to proper pruning, as cutting out crossing branches, and shortening in one-third to one-half those of exu- berant growth, the whole tree is filled out and renewed with new fruit-bearing shoots. The ancient method of oiling the apex or eye of the fruit is not practiced here. It may be serviceable to varieties with an open cah'x, as preventing the intru- sion of insects. There are about a dozen varieties of the Fig cultivated in our State, all suc- ceeding equally well. The Yiolette, Angelique, and White Ischia are of ex- cellent quality, but inferior in size; the lai'ge "White Genoa is a splendid variety, but rather juicy and thin-skinned, and so more difficult to dry in the sun in the bay counties. Among the dark va- rieties, the Black Naples is the largest, but none is superior in quality to our Mission Fig, which will shrivel on the tree, and keep in fine condition, a lus- cious sweetmeat, until the rainy season, if not disturbed by the winged gour- mands. The improved processes of diying open a wide field for the profitable cult- ure of the Fig on the most extensive scale, to supply not only the Pacific Coast and Territories, but the whole Union. Here is another industry, re- 106 ing a Camel one of a lar^ tween may 1) will answer plunging. 4tli. Expc rect sunshi] partial sliac Some of on forcing the;^ large dema) about Chris of opinion to tJi^i^lant li^^^ '' the TOi wi 'acIc Ing of ie the p 3st any ] burn gaf rtainly be THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. 109 in some appropriate marine device, while the floor in correspondence is laid out in encaustic tiles. The divisions constituting the fronts of the tanks are composed each of three sheets of plate glass, each plate having a thickness of one inch, and measuring six feet high by three feet wide, separated from one another and supported centrally by up- right massive iron mullions ; in the smallest tanks the front is represented by but one of these divisions, while that of the largest. No. 6, consists of as many as eleven. Among other conspic- uous structural features of the aquari- um demanding notice, are the huge masses of rock entering into the compo- sition of the tanks and fernery. The system adopted at the Brighton aquarium for continually renewing the sujDply of oxygen, necessary for the well- being of the animals, is by streams of compressed air, which are constantly forced into the tanks through vulcanite tubes carried to the bottom of the water, each tank being fitted with a greater or less number of these tubes according to its size. ^ ■ m — THE WILLOW. BY E. J- HOOPEK. The Willow (Salix, Nat. Ord. Salia- cece), belongs to the Linn sean class Dkc- cia, the distinguishing feature of which is, that the flowers bearing stamens, and those producing pistils and seed, are on two different trees, although the leaves and general appearance of each are the same. All the species are natives of the northern hemisphere, mostly within the temperate zone, though one or two are found within the Arctic circle. The catkins of the differ- ent species vary in length and size, as well as in the color of their anthers. The leaves, though greatly varied in size and form, are all more or less oval, and of a pale sea-gi-een tint, and very frequently white, silvery, and downy on the under side. "Along the brink the path they kept, Where high aloft o'erarching Willows wept, Whose silvery foliage glistened in the beam, And floating shadows fringed the chequered stream." The many important uses rendered us by the different species of Willows and Osiers serve to rank them almost first in the list of our economical trees and plants. The timber is soft, light, and smooth, though tough. There are com- puted by some botanists to be about 250 .species. There are not many that have much claim to an ornamental character, but most of them are of great utility. Among the several uses to which Wil- lows are applied, perhaps the most im- portant is that of basket-making, and the next in consequence is the applica- tion of the bark to tanning purposes. In some countries, too, their leaves are employed as food for stock. A sub- stance called ' ' salicine " is obtained by maceration of the bark of several spe- cies, which has been proved to be equal- ly efficacious with Peruvian bark in the cure of agues and other low fevers. The employment of Willow poles as supports in the garden hop-grounds and vineyards in the eastern part of the United States, and in other parts of the world, is well known. The bright yellow twigs of one variety of them at least — Salix viteUina — are among the toughest of the genus, and are grown by cultivators of the Grape, and market- gardeners, to bind their vines and oth- er produce. The Salix Babylonica, the Weeping Willow, is decidedly worth great consideration; it is most ornamen- tal, intermingled with other differently growing fine trees, in nearly all situa- tions; but, when enjoying the most ap- priate place for it, the margin of a 110 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. stream or piece of water, is certainly one of the handsomest trees we possess. Salix annulai'is, or Ring-leaved Willow, is another pretty pendulous species, more tender than the preceding in a severe climate, but well adapted no doubt for California. The Napoleon Willow, brought from the island of St. Helena, is a rather weak, pendulous sort, apjDcars to be distinct from either of the above, and is, in all probability, a variety of S. jntrparea, common as a woven hedge, well kept down, in some parts of En- gland. With regard to the planting of Wil- lows, nothing can be more easy. They may be increased to almost any extent by cuttings, in the manner of the Osi- ers, grown for fagoting, underwood, or brush, which have long and tough rods. These are vimenalis, rubra, Forhyana, Lambertiana, or purpurea. Their after management must of course depend upon the uses they are destined for. The very common mode of pollarding them, as in Europe, is objectionable on several accounts. They are then sj)oil- ed either for timber or poles. The crowd of small stuff which rises on the head after each cutting suffocates one the other, and the trunk is rendered of little value by its being foreshortened. It must be decidedly more profitable either to cut them over near the ground, as is practiced with stools of Ash, Chest- nut, and other plantations for wood, the subsequent shoots to be thinned accord- ing to the strength of the stool and space they are allowed to occupy — or at once let them run up into perfect trees, tak- ing off only such lateral branches as may be required for repairs, etc., before the principal growths have attained a marketable size. The ground most suited to the forma- tion of Osier-beds, as they are called, is found on the margin of streams. It should be of considerable depth, and l^artake largely of a loamy character. The land should be sufficiently high to prevent more than occasional submer- sion, for although all Willows thrive in damp soils, few of them are naturally bog or even marsh jilants, and never succeed where frequently saturated. Useful as I have proved the Willow tribe, and beautiful to the eye, it fills a scarcely less important place as afford- ing nourishment to bees. Its ornament- al catkins and delicate leaves, which embellish the earliest days of spring, furnish sustenance to those valuable insects. On those of the S. Caprea, esi^ecially, the annual produce of the hives greatly depends. It is in flower in California in most years as early as February. During this time, whenev- er the thermometer is at or about forty- two degrees in the shade, accompanied with sunshine, the bees come abroad. This is a temperature which often oc- curs here, and if they have an opportu- nity during February of feeding a few days upon this Willow, or, j^erhaps, other kinds, the hive will soon become in a flourishing state. With regard to the estimation in which the Willow has been, and still is, held by poets, to enumerate them all would be impossible. A few, however, may be mentioned : " A hollow vale where watery torrents gnsh. Sinks in the plain; the Osier and the rush, The marshy sedge, and bending Willow nod, Then- trailing foliage o'er its oozy sod." Ovid. " Poplars and Willows trembling o'er the flood." Pope's Homee. " The floating shade Of Willows gray close crowding o'er the brook." Thomson. " The thirsty Salix bending o'er the stream. Its boughs as banners waving to the breeze." MONTGOMEKT. " There is a Willow grows ascaunt the brook, That shows his hoar leaves in the grassy stream." Shakspeaee. THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTURIST. Ill A CAKPET FOR SAND-HILLS. The report of the Engineer of the Golden Gate Park contains facts of great interest. We have in this city 3,000 acres of shifting sand, with a con- stant tendency to an increase of the area. The western or ocean side of the city is made nearly desolate by these sands. Eveiy wave which beats on the shore, and every breeze, conspires to raise this sand and drive it inland. If the whole western side of the city were carpeted with verdure, insuring a com- plete fixation of sand, millions of dol- lars would be added to the wealth of the town. The engineer shows how this can be done. In fact, the experi- ments of the last year amount to a very conclusive demonstration. The average cost of reclaiming an acre of land at the Golden Gate Park has been $30.75 an acre for grass, or, with the addition of shrubs, $43.93. The most difficult part of the work of reclamation will be an embankment of nearly three miles along the beach, where now eight hundred cubic feet of sand are raised for every lineal foot. While this will be the most difficult feature of the work, the engineer does not anticipate any great difficulty in making an effectual barricade by means of shrubs, which will fix the sand and form a natural embankment. Tlie in- side work could then be carried on by the lot-owners at comparatively small expense . The results thus far attained with the Yellow Lupine are very remarkable. It thrusts its roots into the sand, and, when once established, it in a short time covers the desolation with the most beautiful vegetation. A top soil is soon formed, and then grass will grow. There are other plants and grasses which are known to thrive in the sand. Alouar the beaches in the Atlantic States is a low bush bearing what is known as the Beach Plum. This shrub grows in the sand, and appears to form a complete barricade to drifts. With so many re- sources, it can hardly be doubted that all the sand-dunes in the city will be reclaimed. Now that successful exper- iments have already been made, and the apjiroximate cost is known, it may be considered that this great work is fairly inaugurated. — S. F. Bulletin. ABUTILON BOULE DE NEIGE. BY A NEW CONTEIBUTOK. The Plant Catalogue of John Saul, Washington, D. C, just received, has the following description of a neiv and rm^e Abutilon at the very head of the list of flowering plants: "Abutilon Boule de Neige. — The Floral Magazine says of it: 'Abutilon Boule de Neige was exhibited by Mr. Standish, of the Royal Nursery, Ascot, and was received by him from France. He describes it as very free flowering, as indeed could be seen from the small plants exhibited by him being full of flowers; and he also states that it is very valuable as a sub-tropical plant, bearing exposure to the summer well, and in- teresting by the contrast of its pure white flowers and green foliage. This plant will be invaluable to our florists for cut-blooms, during summer when bedded out, and during winter in the forcing-house — a charming acquisition to this group. Price $1 each." This plant is figured in a very large and beautiful manner, in colors, as a supplement to the catalogue quoted above. This is the very same plant that our florists and nurserymen have been cultivating very extensively for at least six years jiast. Messrs. Ltidemann & 112 THE CALIFORNIA H0RTICULTUR3T. Co., nurserymen of this city, place it in their recent catalogue among the ever- green plants as ' 'Abutilon niveum, white, price fifty cents;" but by wholesale, it can be had for thirty cents. They have one in their nurserj' that is twelve feet in height, and is a constant bloom- er, liaving a profusion of white flowers the year round. Our nurserymen also cultivate a crimson Abutilon, called "Santana," which we have failed to find in any Eastern catalogue we have so for examined, and therefore presume it is also a "new and rare" plant there. It is "a beautiful plant either for green- house decoration, or for the open air, of rapid growth; leaves palmated, light green, glossy; deep crimson flowers, very distinct, and continually bloom- ing; the price is only fifty cents." It is exceedingly gratifying to us to be thus able to identify what we have cul- tivated for a number of years, as new and quite rare in the East. The above may seem like bringing the ' ' shop " into notice by giving the prices, Imt this the reader will at once see is only done to make a comparison. GARDENING FOR CniLDREN. Few parents prol:)ably ever think what an influence a few lessons on gardening would have on the future life of a child. Eveiyone knows how the acts of child- hood last in the memory, even into old age, and this influence may be cither good or bad, like the act itself ; there- fore, knowing this, we have a good in- centive for teaching our children the knowledge which shall be useful to them in future years. Gardening is, however, seldom taught to children, al- though one of the most useful kinds of knowledge which they could obtain. Perhaps the reason why it is so is be- cause there are fw able to teach ; but it needs only a beinniug to make the next generation mch in the advance of this. The boy is set i work hoeing or dig- ging, but no onojxplains any motive for the act, conseaently his interest in the work does nc reach beyond the mere manipulatio of the soil, and what might becoie mental recreation and a pleasure, i the worst kind of drudgery. If he as told why the soil was stirred and ii eflfect, there would be something moi than the usual in- centive for work, nd the lesson would be remembered. ^ child should never be allowed to do ay work without first knowing its objec and the parent that is capable of exphning this clearly will not be very likely o permit an improp- er act. But what we hea call gardening may well include more r less of farming, be- cause the farmer nses plants as well as the gardener. Nither do we believe in confining a knoledge of gardening to boys, for it wl do girls no harm even if they slioul never have occasion to use it. Let th(boy begin by raising plants himself, f-rt'ing the seeds and tending the plantsas they ajjipear, and progress soon becmes a constant source of delight as well s knowledge. Begin with annuals, for tey come into perfec- tion soon , and wi, not tax the patience of the child too jvcrely at first. A few perennials ma also be started at the same time, and a nv words of explana- tion show him the ifference and how to distinguish the tvj classes. Gay flow- ers usually attractaost, but melons, or other annual fruii, may well come in for a share of atmtion. One step in this direction wilload to others, and a boy or girl who wald, under the usual course pursued by imiers, hate garden- ing, will become thoroughly imbued fB aS9^ ^tfr* !|1»B«««*" THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 113 with a love for it and all its surround- ings. The hoeing, raking, digging, and other operations in the garden, -when their use is fully explained, become very interesting even to older persons, but they are remembered better if taught in youth. If we are ever to be a nation of good gardeners or farmers, we must have the science of the thing taught to children. Our common schools must be made more practical and interesting to chil- dren, for the science of eveiy-day life and its suiToundings are full of interest- ing and useful lessons, and these need to be placed foremost, and dry book- lessons second or last. A knowledge of how that weed by the school-house door- step grows is of more consequence to the child than the age of the Egyptian Pyramids or the height of Pompey's Pillar. We were taught when a child to repeat many a falsehood by the yard, because they were in school-books, but never had a teacher who could tell which way a Lima beanstalk turned around a pole, or why it turned at all. Now, while farmers are making war up- on those who oppress them, had they not better look into the school-houses and see that their children are being taught that which shall be most useful to them as farmers and farmers' wives? A Destructive WoKM. — "We hear com- plaint that a small woim has made its appearance in this vicinity, and is mak- ing disastrous inroads upon some of the grain. It resembles the array-worm somewhat. It eats in a circle, and takes the grain as it shoots above the ground, leaving not a spear in its course. Sev- eral farmers in this neighborhood will be compelled to sow their land over again, owing to the devastations made by these worms. — Gilroy Advocate. GEOUP OF ANNUALS.- See Feontispiece. BY F. A. MILLEE. We take pleasure in calling the atten- tion of the reader to another group of annuals, represented in our frontispiece, for which the Magazine is again indebt- ed to James Vick, of Rochester, N. Y. The Verbena is not considered an an- nual with us here in California, as it is sufficiently hardy to withstand our win- ters. The production of new varieties is continually increasing, and the Ver- bena is now a most popular bedding plant, and indispensable for the flower garden. It is veiy important that the old plants should be well cut back in the spring of the year, so as to produce young wood and better flowers. The Dianthus has also been wonder- fully improved, and many most exquis- ite and distinct varieties are under cul- tivation. The seed is sown early in the spring, and the young plants will jjro- duce an abundance of flowers during summer and the following winter. The Dianthus also withstands our winters, holds out for several years, and ceases to be an annual in California. The Tropceolum has no less claim to our special attention. Hardly any ex- cept the oldest varieties are cultivated here, although the colors of the latest acquisitions are most superb. It is a pretty climber for trellis-work, and con- tinually in bloom. It develops its flow- ers the first season from the seed, but, like the other plants we have named above, continues to live and thrive for a number of years. We know of some plants in this city which have never stopped blooming for four years. Cer- tainly this fact must encourage the planting of these so-called annuals. Thoeough cultivation is indispensable to success in gardening. Vol. rv.— 15. 114 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. EUCALYPTUS GEOVES. A Hayward correspondent of the Oak- land Transcript gives the following: — ' ' Two miles north of Hayward are two remarkable groves of the Eucalyptus or Australian Gum-tree. They belong to J. T. Stratton, the present Surveyor- General, who resides in Oakland. One grove contains about sixty acres, the other ninety ; the whole comprising about 130,000 trees, big and little. The trees are only four years old, yet many of them are from forty to fifty feet high and a foot in diameter, and are j^lanted in regular rows like an orchard, though closer together; in fact, the rows are too close for the general thrift, and the proprietor is about to cut away every other tree, which will afford firewood enough to pay for all exj)enditure here- tofore. When Gen. Stratton was set- ting out the trees, the neighboring farm- ers laughed at him, and advised him to desist and attend to his surveying, as he would be dead long before the tim- ber would amount to anything; but the laugh • is now on the other side. Five years hence the available timber will be immensely valuable for manufacturing and for firewood. There are many spe- cies of the Eucalyptus, most of which are adapted to this climate. The tree grows to great size and height, and when seasoned is extremely hard, solid, and resembles hickory. It is well suit- ed for wagon and carriage making, and as firewood it creates a heat almost equal to coal, and deposits a cinder which will keej) hot for a long time. No doubt General Stratton's foresight in planting these extensive and beautiful groves will produce not only cords of wood but cords of money; for, if cut down and sold now% at the age of only four years, the young forests would bring many thousands of dollars. Moreover, the successful experiment will be of vast importance to the people living in poor- ly timbered districts, as it has demon- strated that an abundance of valuable wood can be produced from the seed within five years from the time of plant- ing, while a period of nine or ten years will produce timber logs more than two feet in diameter. A FLOURISHING EXPORT TRADE IN SEEDS AND PLANTS. A considerable trade, and one con- stantly increasing, has sjirung uj) with Europe in plants indigenous to the Pa- cific Coast. Sonntag & Co. have the princijDal part of the business in their hands, and they have collecting agents at work from "Washington Territory to Southern California, in Nevada, and also in Arizona. The Pacific Coast is constantly yield- ing up botanical treasures, and attract- ing the attention of the scientific world. The parteri'es of lovely flowers uj^on oiu- hills and mountains are not appreciated until one has been abroad, and visited the gardens of Euroj^e. In England, and in several countries on the continent, wild flowers from this State, where they are found in boundless profusion, are cultivated under glass, and nurtured as botanical novelties. There are seven- teen species of the Lupine in California, indigenous to the soil, and other wild flowers in like proportion. Among the California plants held in high esteem by the Europeans is the Ceanothus, or the Beauty of the Sierra, a charming flower, found in the mountains, as its name would imply, and also on the hills to the west of the city. The California Pitcher Plant, differing materially from the Pitcher Plant of the Eastern States, is also prized abroad as a novelty. Its leaves are in the form of tubes, and will THE CALIFORNIA HOETICULTUEIST. 11{ hold water. Another popular plant is the ScoUopus Bigeloivi, a plant discov- ered by the Mexican Boundary Commis- sion, and named in honor of one of its members. This is a great botanical curiosity. It grows to the height of eighteen inches, has large gi'eeu leaves, spotted with maroon, and bears purple flowers. Among the tree seeds in demand among the Europeans are those of the Sequoia gigantea, or Wellingtonia gigan- tca, named in compliment to the late Duke of Wellington, which is best known as the Big Tree of California. The English naturalist Lobb is suj)pos- ed by many to have first met with the tree near the source of the Stanislaus River, in Calaveras County, though oth- er writers attribute its discovery to Douglas, in 1831 ; but perhaps the most probable statement is the one generally believed in California, and is that a company of miners on a prospecting tour came accidentally upon the Cala- veras group. In 1865 were sold two pounds of the seeds of this tree, in one of the German States, at the rate of $125 per pound. Other favorites are the Pinus fiexilia, a hardy tree, found at the height of 13,000 feet; the Pinus iyisignis, a lovely grass-green pine ; the Cupressus macrocarpus, an ev- ergreen; the Thuja gigantea; the gigan- tic Arborvitse, alias Libocedrus cleciir- rens, a noble tree, with a straight and very robust stem — in color the foliage is a remarkably bright green, and the branches are long, flat, and frond-like ; and many other Firs, Pines, Cedars, Cy- presses, etc. The need of a good work on the botany of the Pacific Coast has long been felt; and in this connection we are pleased to learn that Professor Brewer, of Yale College, who was asso- ciated with Clarence King during the geological survey, is writing a book de- voted exclusively to this subject. Morning Gall. MOUNT SHASTA FKOM STKAWBEKKY VALLEY. Isolated by the valleys around its base from the ridges of the Sierra Nevada and the Coast Range, which in this re- gion are conterminous, if not quite in- termixed, and showing so much of its real elevation. Mount Shasta has the finest exposure of all the lofty summits in California. Indeed, there are few mountains anywhere in the world which stand so apart, and are seen to such great advantage. Mount Whitney, in southern California — its superior in height by 500 or 600 feet, and its only proved superior in the United States, outside of Alaska — is but one of a num- ber of companion peaks, of little inferior height, rising a few thousand feet above the general elevation of a long crest- line, accessible by a quite gradual ap- proach on horseback. The peaks about the railroad summit, having an eleva- tion of 9,000 to 10,000 feet, are reached by an ascent, on the railroad or wagon- road grades (which go within 3,000 or 4,000 feet of their tops), not less than 100 miles long. But arrived at the base of Shasta, you are only 3,567 feet above the sea, and make the remaining eleva- tion of nearly 11,000 feet to the top, on horseback and afoot, in the short dis- tance of fourteen or fifteen miles. Standing out so boldly, Shasta is a con- spicuous landmark over an area several hundred miles in extent, and the view of it from any of the valleys at its foot is alone ample reward for the long jour- ney necessaiy to obtain it. The study of it from Strawberry Valley is a con- stant source of pleasure, for many days in succession, from the early morning, when it is cold and austere, until the 116 THE CALIFOENIA HOETICULTUKIST. evening, when it is warm and ruddy with a delicioua Alpine glow, lasting forty minutes after the valley is in cool shadow. In the clearest atmosphere, and close as it is, the twin cones of its summit look soft and smooth, as if clad with soil, where they are not covered or streaked with snow. Innocent and in- viting as are those slopes, except for the steep angle of their inclination, we know they are rough piles of broken rocks, of toppling slabs, and sharp volcanic clink- ers. But how lovely they look ! How delicious in their prevalent tint of pink- ish drab, streaked with the red of lava edges and the white of frozen snow, and relieved so high up against the blue sky ; while low down is the abruptly termi- nating line of dark-green firs and jDines, sloping to the bright grassy meadow at the foot of all. In some lights, and es- pecially when the atmosphere is hazy, the peak above the timber-line is a delicate mauve color; and then it is as airy and wonderful as the dome of Aladdin's genii-built palace, insubstan- tial almost as the fabric of a vision. — B. P. AvEBY, in Overland for March. PEOFITS OF ORANGE CULTURE IN CALIFORNIA. Seedling Orange-trees rarely bear fruit until seven years old, and frequent- ly not until eight years old. As a rule, the first crop is sufiicient to pay all cur- rent expenses. The second crop will give a fair profit, while the third crop — worth at, say, $15 to $25 per 1,000, $10 per tree — is enough to pay back all the principal invested, allowing that noth- ing has been realized in the meantime from the space between the rows. Orange-trees fifteen years old will bear from 1,000 to 2,000 Oranges, netting the fortunate owner from $20 to $25 per tree, or $1,000 to $2,000 per acre. This is no fancy picture — the dream of an im- aginative mind. The Los Angeles and San Gabriel valleys, in Los Angeles County, afford ample proof of the truth- fulness of these assertions. From his orange-grove of seven acres, Mr. Wil- son nets the handsome sum of $2,000 per acre per annum. The fair owner of the Wolfskin orchard, covering an area of about thirty acres, is reputed to net from the Orange-crop from $45,000 to $50,000 per annum. Mr. L. J. Rose, of Sunnyslope, who has an avenue half a mile in length, leading from the coun- ty road to the door of his residence, lin- ed on each side by a double row of Orange-trees, five hundred of which are now bearing, sold the crop of 1872—3 for $30 per 1,000, which aggi-egated about $15,000. The trees in the San Gabriel Mission orchard jdeld from 2,000 to 3,000 Oranges per tree per an- num, which sell readily for the highest price in the market. — Taliesin Evans, in Overland for March. Rheumatism. — A correspondent in the English Mechanic gives the following remedy for curing rheumatic gout, from which he had long been a sufferer. He insulated his bedstead' from the floor, by placing underneath each post a broken-off bottom of a glass bottle. He says the effect was magical, that he had not been free from rheumatic gout for fifteen j^ears, and that he began to improve immediately after the applica- tion of the insulators. We are remind- ed, by this paragraph from our Eng- lish contemporary, of a patent obtained through this office for a physician some twelve or more years ago, which created considerable interest at the time. The patent consisted in placing glass cups under the bed-posts in similar manner to the above. The patentee claimed to have THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 117 eflfected some remarkable cures by the use of his glass insulators, but we have not heard from him for some time. We can not vouch for any merit in the idea, but it is one easily tried; and as no harm can arise from the ex2:)eriment, we hope some one will test it and give us the result of his experience. KEEP AMMONIA IN THE HOUSE. "We find the following sensible article credited to "Exchange," and we trans- fer it to our columns because our own experience teaches us that the advice is good : "No housekeeper should be without a bottle of spirits of ammonia, for be- sides its medical value, it is invaluable for household jDurposes. It is nearly as useful as soap, and its cheapness brings it within the reach of all. Put a teaspoonful of ammonia to a quart of warm soap-suds, dip in a flannel cloth and wipe off the dust and fly-specks, and see for yourself how much labor it will save. No scrubbing will be need- ful. It will cleanse and brighten silver wonderfully: to a pint of suds mix a teaspoonful of the spirits, dip in your silver spoons, forks, etc., rub with a brush, and polish with chamois-skin. For washing mirrors and windows it is very desirable : put a few drops of am- monia on a piece of paper, and it will readily take off every spot or finger- mark on the glass. It will take out grease spots from every fabric : put on the ammonia nearly clear, lay blotting- paper over the place, and joress a hot flat-iron on it for a few moments. A few drops in water will clean laces and whiten them as well; also muslins. It is a most refreshing agent at the toilet table; a few drops in a basin of water will make a better bath than pure wa- ter, and if the skin is oily it will remove all glossiness and disagreeable odors. Added to a foot-bath , it entirely absorbs all noxious smell so often arising from the feet in warm weather, and nothing is better for cleaning the hair from dand- ruff and dust. For cleaning hair- brush- es and nail-brushes it is equally good. Put a teaspoonful of ammonia into one pint of water, and shake the brushes through the water. When they appear white, rinse them in pure water, and put them in the sunshine or other warm place to dry. The dirtiest brushes will come out of this bath white and clean. For medicinal purposes ammonia is al- ways unrivaled. For headache it is a desirable stimulant, and frequent in- haling of its pungent odors will often entirely remove catarrhal cold. There is no better remedy for heart-burn and dyspepsia, and the aromatic spirits of ammonia is especially prepared for these troubles. Ten drops of it in a wine- glassful of water are often a great re- lief. The spirits of ammonia can be taken in the same way, but it is not as palatable. In addition to all these uses, the effect of ammonia on vegetation is beneficial. If you desire Roses, Gera- niums, Fuchsias, etc., to become more floui-ishing, you can try it upon them by adding five or six drops to every pint of warm water that you give them ; but don't repeat the dose oftener than once in five or six days, lest you stimulate them too highly. So be sure and keep a large bottle of it in the house, and have a glass stopper for it, as it is very evanescent, and also injurious to corks, Success of an American Vegetable. — The Early Rose Potato has won a tri- umph even in Australia. In one place a single pound of seed produced 105 pounds in yield; another lot of two pounds of seed produced 300 pounds within seven months. 118 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. GROWTH OF THE FRUIT TRADE. The domestic fruit trade of this State is increasing in a healthy way year by year. We hear now and then that the fruit business don't pay. In some in- stances it does not; but this results, we suspect, fi'om poor management. We hear the old story of fruit decaying on the ground, or not paying for boxes, freight, and commissions. This class of facts can be gathered up in any fruit- growing region. East or West. Prob- ably, those who have made fruit-grow- ing a specialty have realized the most satisfactory returns. They watch the markets, and they know what varieties sell best As evidence that the fruit trade is in a prosperous condition, we have the facts that new orchards are set out every year, and at this time j^repar- ations are making for the setting out of fruit-trees on an extensive scale, not only in the bay counties, but in other parts of the State. Besides Pears, Ap- ples, Peaches, Cherries, and Plums, orchards of small fruits, as Blackber- ries, Currants, and Gooseberries, will be set out. The Sacramento Union makes the following showing of the fruit business which centres in that city: " It is im- possible to get correct data of the total sales and exportation from this city. It will, however, be but little, if any, short of $750,000. A large proportion of this has been disposed of and for- warded from here by W. R. Strong, A. H. Cummings & Co., R. Levy, and Lyons & Barnes, fruit and commission merchants, Sacramento, and by C. W. Reed, an extensive grower in Yolo County. One firm, A. H. Cummings & Co., Sacramento, shipped for their share, during the fruit and vegetable season, 2,028 tons of frviit, 300 tons of vegetables, 45 tons of seed, 30 tons of dried fruit, and 400 dozen (2^ lb. cans) canned fruit. Of the above, 400 tons of fruit were sent to Chicago and New York, and the balance to Nevada, Utah, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and Nebraska. Another, the house of R. Levy, shipped G,000 boxes of Ap- ples, (5,500 boxes of Peai's, 2,500 boxes of Peaches, 1,500 boxes of Plums, 1,250 boxes of Nectarines, 2,000 boxes of Ap- ricots, 1G,000 boxes of Grapes, 5,000 boxes of Cherries, 2,000 boxes of Cur- rants, 6,000 boxes of Strawberries, 3,- 000 boxes of Tomatoes, and fifteen car- loads of assorted fruits and vegetables. Wolf & Adams, during the year 1873, shii^ped of Chenies and Plums 5 tons; of Blackberries and Strawberries, 10 tons; Peaches and Apricots, 25 tons; Pears and Apples, 60 tons." The business of dicing fruits and canning, both for home consumption and the Eastern markets, is earned on more extensively in San Francisco and in this vicinity. It is yet in its infancy, but is growing rapidly every year. A good fruit-orchard — that is, one which is stocked with the best varieties of fruit — yields a veiy certain income. The owner can sell the crop on the trees if he does not care to box and ship it to market. iJlany large sales are made in this way; the purchaser in the early pari of the season buying the crop in bulk on the trees, and • taking the chances of a good turnout and a good market. Those who maintain that the fruit business is overdone in this State will see that interest more than doubled during the next ten years. — Bulletin. The British Museum has cost the British Government nearly $20,000,000, and it now costs nearly $(500,000 a year to maintain it, or more than a dollar for every person who visits it. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 119 HOW TO PLANT PECANS AND CHEST- NUTS. There are very few species of our na- tive nuts that will grow after they have once become thoroughly dried, conse- quently fall is the time to plant. But in case it is not convenient to plant at that time, the nuts may be preserved in moist sand or soil until sjDring, and then sown in drills or wherever it is de- sirable to have them grow. The Chestnut is probably one of the most delicate of all, requiring careful handling in order to succeed in making the nuts grow ; but if taken fresh from the trees or before they get dry and shriveled, and placed in pure sand and then buried in the oj)en ground where they will be kept cool and moist until spring, there is little danger of failure, provided they are not planted too deep and in hea\^ soils. We have found it a good plan to scatter the nuts in shal- low drills and merely cover them with sand or sandy soil, and then spread a little hay, straw, or some such light ma- terial over the bed. Not more than a half inch in depth of soil should be put over the nuts. Pecan and other species of Hickory nuts may be treated in the same man- ner, although they will withstand con- siderable hard usage and still grow. Pecans which have been kept in stores since last autumn may be made to ger- minate next spring if taken now and put in moist soil and placed where they will freeze during this month or next. The freezing and thawing open the pores of the shell, admitting moisture to the germ within. Collection of Oranges. — Says the Journal of the Farm : "It is not gener- ally known that the Superintendent of the Government Gardens at Washing- ton has for some time past been mak- ing a collection of all accessible varie- ties of Oranges, and that he now has over fifty varieties, of which but three kinds have yet been distributed, viz: Tangerine, Maltese, and St. Michaels. It is proposed to have the difi'erent vari- eties tested, and when their qualities are ascertained, to distribute the best kinds for cultivation in the South and on our Pacific Coast. This branch of Horticult- ure is one which has made rapid prog- ress within the last few years, and we are glad to note that Mr. Saunders is thus assisting it." MOUNTAIN FAEMING. The Amador Ledger has been giving some interesting items of actual results of farming in the foot-hills of that coun- ty. This week it gives the actual prod- uct of the ranch of Mr. C. J. Ruffner, situated at the north-western foot of the Butte Mountain, three miles east of Jackson. Mr. Ruffner owns 160 acres, with Government title ; 20 acres of the tract is cultivated to grass, producing one ton per acre without irrigation. Hay is never worth less than $25 per ton ; income from hay produced, $500. Eight acres are planted in fruit-trees and Grape-vines, and two acres in vege- tables. The fruit-trees embrace Apple, Pear, Peach, Plum, Aj)ricots, Quince, and Nectarine. From the orchard last year were taken and sold the following products: Eight tons of Apples, at 2 cents per pound, $320 ; 2 tons Peaches, Pears, Plums, and other fruits, 3 cents, $120; 18 tons Grapes from 7,000 vines, 2 cents, $720 ; 1,000 pounds raisins cured and sold, 20 cents, $200; from eight acres fruits and vines, $1 ,360. From the two acres cultivated in vegetables, the 120 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. following sums were realized : 4 tons of Tomatoes at 2 cent's, $1(50; from the sale of Cucumbers, Beans, Peas, Cabbages, Beets, and other vegetables, $300, Product from 2 acres, $460. Whole amount realized from 30 acres, as fol- lows: From 20 acres to hay, $500; 8 acres of fruits, Graj^es, and raisins, $1,- 360; 2 acres to vegetables, $400. To- tal sum realized, $2,320 ; being $25 per acre for land cultivated to hay, $270 per acre for land cultivated to fruit and Grapes, and $230 per acre in vegetables. The Eucalyptus.- — Dr. William H. Gibbons, of Alameda, says of this tree : " Don't trim them. The Eucalyptus, in its natural localities, attains a height of from 300 to 400 feet, with a diameter of 40 feet. The first two years of its growth from the seed is largely employ- ed in making root. Cut off its side branches and you cut off the organs which supply the root with food. Dwarf the root and you produce an ill- shaped, ungraceful tree, which, having no firm hold in the ground, is liable to be blown over by every high wind. Our gardeners ball up the roots of the Eucalyptus like a mass of worms, and sell them in this condition; the pur- chasers dig a small hole and cover them up. They grow awhile, blow over, are trimmed, reset, and replanted, to look as much like a Eucalyptus -tree as a jackass does like a philosopher. The hole for a tree should be alwaj'S from eighteen inches to two feet square, and of like de^Dth; it should be filled to within eight inches of the top with good vegetable mold or compost; the roots should be trimmed and spread out so as to have no accumulation of twisted roots, and the tree when planted should be about an inch below the earth line. So planted, it will rarely blow over." THE OREODOXA REGIA PALM. The splendid and luxurious flora of Brazil produces nothing more graceful than the lofty palm known as the Oreo- doxa regia. Straight and slightly tap- ering for over sixty feet in height (when fully grown), the tree then separates into a frond of remarkable beauty, as complete in form as the capital of a Corinthian column. A grove of these trees is to be seen in the public Botanic Garden at Rio de Janeiro, and it is diffi- cult to imagine an object more beauti- ful to the eye of a lover of nature. The trees are said to be between forty and fifty years of age. The trunk of each of them is about four feet in di- ameter at four feet from the ground, and it goes on tapering gradually to a length of more than fifty feet, when it becomes united with another smooth thinner trunk, from ten to twelve feet in height, formed of the bright green foot -stalks of the leaves, which again measure some twenty feet or more. In young vigorous trees the leaves are considerably longer. The great beauty of this Palm is its elegance and cleanliness of aspect; no ragged leaf beats about in the wind, even at that great height; the over -ripe yellow leaves unsheathe themselves of their own accord, and the trees look as clean as if they had been trimmed by hand. The color of the stem is of a whitish gray, like that of light stone in dazzling sun- shine; and although from top to bottom it is covered with lichens of all the col- ors of the rainbow, yet so small are they that you only perceive them by ap- proaching the tree closely. In the same grounds, saj's The Gar- den, exists the parent of these Palms, which was planted during the last year of the last century, and is now about 120 feet in height. It is a noble tree, THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 121 and, as it stands sing'lj' and at a con- siderable distance from other plants, its beauty and height can be seen to the best advantage. Strangers from northern countries are invariably struck with the appear- ance of this avenue, which is unrivaled for its regularity, extent, and beauty. It forms a colonnade of natural columns, whose graceful bright - green capitals seem to support an overhanging dome of bright blue sky. FEUIT-GKOWING AND FRUIT - CUEING. The following view on this new in- dustry is from the Marysville Appeal, of February 14th : ' ' California has already gained a na- tional reputation as a fruit - growing country, though fruit culture in our State may be said to be in its infancy. We have no accurate data as to the ag- gregate crop of our various fruits, but one fact seems to be demonstrated by experience, that our crops of green fruit are already in excess of home consump- tion, and that fruit-growers who are increasing and extending their orchards yearly, must resort to drying and can- ning, and that the coming year will find our fruit-growers making prepara- tions for disposing of their surplus in this way. Our attention has been call- ed to this matter at this time by observ- ing that extensive orders have been re- cently received from the East for dried Apples, at nine cents per pound; and also, that during the month of Decem- ber last, about 35,000 pounds of dried fruit were shipped by rail from San Francisco to the East. California is wonderfully adapted by its climate and soil to fruit-growing, and is already the greatest pomological State in the Un- ion. But our people are yet to learn Vol. IV.— 16. much about fruit-raising and fruit-cur- ing— learn how to utilize by economy, industry, and foresight, and adopt vari- ous modes of preserving and getting to market their fruits. Every novice in California can plant a tree, gather its fruit, and sell it for what it will bring- in the nearest local market. But neces- sity compels us to learn how to do bet- ter than we have been doing the j)ast few years. Early and late fruits are the only varieties on which our orchard- ists now realize good profits, and this demand lasts but a few weeks at the beginning and close of each season. The great bulk of our fruits rij^en in midsummer, and are necessarily rushed upon the market, and bring but small prices, and frequently barely enough money to j^ay the expenses of picking, boxing, and freight. At this particular period of the season the general inter- ests invite some other way for the dis- posal of the surplus fruit, and it is plain to see that there is but one course left, and that is to preserve or dry our Peaches, Pears, Plums, Apricots, etc. Every extensive fruit-grower must there- fore provide ways and means for drying or preserving — and it is generally con- ceded that there will be most profit in drying. Then follows a secondary ne- cessity, which may be termed economy in labor. The work of picking, paring, and drying must be done with cheap la- bor— and what better employment for our boys and girls who are dependent upon some kind of occupation for their support? Fruit-drying can be made profitable when the people settle down to the conviction that they must labor in California as in other States, and rigid economy is adopted in every de- partment of the business. There will be a market for every pound of dried fruit we can put up in good shipping order. By drying our best fruits — for 122 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. the best is that which ripens in the middle of the season — the home market will be relieved of the surplus of green fruits, and millions of pounds will be saved which would otherwise rot or be fed to animals. We therefore believe, considering the increasing demand for dried fruits in the East, that our or- chardists may safely anticipate that a better time is coming." PLANTING SHADE -TREES IN SAN JOSE —AN EXAMPLE. San Jose is, says the Sacramento Record, we believe already the best shaded city in the State. The streets leading out of the city for miles, in al- most eveiy direction, are lined with shade-trees to a greater extent than are the streets leading out of any other city in the State. The shade -trees in the streets of San Jose and along the roads leading into the country are the remark and admiration of every visitor to that section, and have done more to attract permanent settlers and capital to that county than any other one thing. The land is no better in that county than in many others in the State, and produces no more to the acre. Nor is the county any better situated as to market facili- ties than many other counties, and yet the farms are held at a much higher price and are in demand at higher rates than in most other counties. One of the principal reasons for this fact is found in the better taste and more en- terprise displayed by the citizens in the ornamentation of their city lots and farms in the country. Suppose, for in- stance, that all the citizens in the sever- al towns of Yolo and Solano counties, and all the farmers, were this season to plant out shade-trees along the line of all the public streets leading through or past their property, and should give them the necessary care to secure their thrifty growth, can anyone tell the ap- preciation of real estate that would take place in the county in the next four years ? The trees themselves, for the wood alone, would be a good invest- ment, but the value they would add to the land could scarcely be estimated in dollars and cents, though we feel confi- dent that this additional value would scarcely be less than from 25 to 50 per cent, over and above the amount of in- crease that would accrue to the land without such improvement. How long will it take for the farmers of all the counties to learn the value of shade- trees in a country like this? If good judgment were used in selecting the trees, in ten years from the time of set- ting them out trees thus set along the highways of a county would, from the prunings alone, furnish their owners with a good supply of fire-wood. One hundred Cottonwood-trees would, after they should have attained the age of ten years, furnish from the limbs alone ten cords of wood per annum. The pruning could be so managed as not to interfere with, but rather presei-ve the beauty and symmetry of the tree. This is the season to plant trees, and we would urge all our' readers to plant them wherever they have appropriate places, whether along the line of the streets or division fences, or in cultivat- ed fields. Ammonia for Verbenas. — The sulphate of ammonia is an excellent manurial liquid to apply to Verbenas or other plants, giving the foliage a dark green, luxuriant, and healthy appearance. It is economical, clean, and easily applied. Prepare it in the evening before using, by dissolving one ounce of ammonia in two gallons of water. It may be ap- plied once a week. THE CALIFORNIA HORTICTJLTUEIST. 123 THE PROTECTION OF PLANTS BY ARTIFICIAL CLOUDS. The practice among gardeners of pro- tecting vegetables from the effects of frost, by lighting fires at such points that the wind will cany the heated air and smoke over the plants, is not new, and in some countries is one of the commonest agricultural operations. In Chile, where large vineyards exist upon the slojjes of the Cordilleras, the plan has been found of the greatest value in saving the vines from the cold wind ■which sweeps down from the mount- ains; and it is stated that even the ten- derest shoots are defended from the frost, at temperatures as low as 21° Fahrenheit. The most recent experiments in this direction, and perhaps also the most extensive of late date, have been car- ried on by M. Fiabre de Rieunegre, one of the largest vine-growers in France. It may be remembered that about a year ago we briefly adverted to this subject, and said that it had elicited commenda- tion from a congress of vintners in the above mentioned country. Since then, however, M. de Rieunegre's experi- ments have been made, and with such remarkably good results, that the mat- ter is invested with a new and at this season of the year timely importance to all engaged in the cultivation of the vine in our Northern States. The in- vestigator in the record of his research- es considers that fires of tar or heavy oils are not suitable, notably from the fact that cheaper and more efficacious material can be obtained, and also that, in order to keep the former burning over a considerable period of time, an amount of attention is required which eventually becomes very onerous. The chafi" of Wheat, he says, answers the purpose better than any substance he has used, as it burns slowly, produces large quantities of smoke, and costs but very little. Moss, saw-dust, or worth- less hay may be employed when chaff is not conveniently to be obtained. The material is jailed in heaps of about eight feet in diameter and forty feet apart. Three fires thus disposed are sufficient to protect two and a half acres of vines. In describing his mode of experi- menting, M. de Rieunegre says that, having selected a night when the ther- mometer appeared to be rapidly falling, he collected all his laborers, together with a large concourse of neighbors from the surrounding country. As soon as the mercury fell to 32° Fahrenheit, a signal was given, and the match was applied to 300 heaps of chaff and straw. The flames were carefully kept under, and in a very few minutes a dense cloud of smoke had settled over a plain of 360 acres. The fires were continued until the thermometer had risen above the freezing point of water, but were renewed within twenty-four hours, when one of the coldest nights of winter set in, with a strong breeze blowing from the north-east. New heaps were kin- dled in the direction of the wind, the great cloud was again formed, and, al- though it is stated the vineyards of the surrounding country presented after the frost a scene of desolation, those pro- tected by the smoke were unharmed. Thirty thousand dollars worth of plants were saved by the operation, at the sole expense of a quantity of worthless chaff and straw. — Scientific American. Here is the latest prescription for the destruction of squirrels : Boil one-third of a pint of vinegar; add to this one ounce of fine pulverized strychnine, stir it well, put it into six quarts of water in an old tin pan. Half of this dose was sufficient to kill sixty-two squirrels in three days in Alameda County. 124 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. mxWml g0rtMt0. Bay District Horticultural Society. — At the regular monthly meeting of this Society, held at their rooms on the 28th lilt., notice, in confonnity with the fundamental laAVS, was duly given, that at the regular meeting of Saturday, 30th of Ma}' next ensuing, the Constitu- tion of the Society would be taken un- der consideration, with the view to the alteration and amendment of each and eveiy clause thereof. This is a very necessary measure, as, owing to the somewhat precipitate man- ner in which the original document was framed, many crudities and incongrui- ties were embodied. Several wise and healthy amendments have been suggest- ed, and it is hoped that each and every member will carefully read his coj^y of the Constitution and By-laws, and make jt a point of conscience to attend and assist at the deliberations. As some few of the members are slightly in ar- rears, it will be expedient for them to communicate with Mr. F. A. Miller, the Secretary, in the meantime, so that a full vote may be obtained on this im- portant measure. WOODWARD'S GARDENS. Many important alterations are now in progress in these Gardens, and many excellent imj^rovements are contemplat- ed. The vmpropitious weather has held much in check, but the genial influence of spring is visible everywhere in the grounds; trees and shrubs are putting forth their new leaves and blossoms, and the Acacias make the air redolent of fragrance. Animals and birds are benefited by the advance of the season; and the aquarium has received acces- sions of new fish. In the conservato- ries and tropical houses there is much improvement, and many choice plants are profusely in flower, filling the air with rich i)erfume, and delighting the eye with their elegant forms and brill- iant coloring. CATALOGUES RECEIVED. We have received from William Bull, of King's Road, Chelsea, Loudon, his exceedingly copious and well-illustrated Retail List of New, Beautiful, and Rare Plants for 1874. The descriptions are full and interesting, and much valuable information is supplied, making the catalogue a very desirable addition to the book- shelf of every amateur and nurseryman, while the prices are temjit- ingly low. We have also from the same establishment a retail list of Se- lect Floioer, Agricultural, and Vegetable Seeds, and Nexo Plants, for 1874; this is equally worthy for the same reasons as the above mentioned list. Messrs. Miller & Sievers, of 27 Post Street, San Francisco, have handed us their Catalogue of CaUfornia and Foreign Seeds, Bulbs, and Plants. We recom- mend this list to the attention of nur- serymen and amateurs, as containing much valuable material for the flow- er garden, at reasonable prices. The Southern Fine Stock Company, of Gallatin, Tennessee, have forwarded us their Catalogue of Blooded Stock, etc. , well worthy the attention of our agri- cultural and stock-raisinfjf friends. FAVORS RECEIVED. Report of the State Board of Agricult- vre to the Legislature of Kansas. We are indebted to Alfred Gray, Esq., Sec- retary to the State Board of Agriculture, for this report for 1873. Much valiia- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 125 ble and interesting' information is con- tained in this volume. The April number of the Overland Monthly has particularly interested us with several of its articles, among which "Wild Sheep of California," "Rambles of an Ornithologist," "Nat- ure and Art," "Industrial Education in Country Schools," deserve special mention. "Etc." and "Current Liter- ature" are as usual good and telling. A WRITER in a French horticultural journal relates this suggestive experi- ence: "After sunset I place in the cen- tre of my orchard an old barrel, the in- side of which I have previously well tar- red. At the bottom of the barrel I place a lighted lamp. Insects of many kinds, attracted by the light, make for the lamp, and while circling around it strike against the sides of the barrel, where, meeting with the tar, their feet and legs become so clogged that they fall helpless to the bottom. In the morning I examine the barrel, and frequently take out of it ten or twelve gallons of cockchafers, which I at once destroy. A few pence worth of tar em- ployed in this way will, without any further trouble, be the means of de- stroying innumerable numbers of these insects, whose larvae are amongst the most destructive pests the gardener or farmer has to contend against." To Kill Osage Orange Hedge. — Cut ofit' the hedge close to the ground, and then turn a furrow away from each side, after which take an axe and cut off the roots at the bottom of the furrow. In this way the hedge can be cheaply and entirely killed, and no other way that I ever saw tried will succeed. There will be almost wood enough to pay for the work . — Exchange . NEW AND EARE PLANTS. Another New Bouvardia. — Of late years the Bouvardias have taken a high rank among the class of plants general- ly cultivated for cut-flowers in winter. These small, delicate, tubular -shaped flowers being produced in compact clus- ters, are exceedingly convenient for ar- ranging either in large or small bou- quets. Besides, they are quite firm, retaining their form and colors well after separation from the parent plant. Most of the species and varieties bloom profusely and continuously through the winter months, and need only to be jDlanted out in the open ground through the summer, to be in fine condition for blooming again the succeeding season. Until within the past half-dozen years, we had no free-blooming white sort, and this may have had something to do in lessening the j^opularity of these plants. The old Bouvardia jasminifolia would sometimes yield a few very good clus- ters of white flowers, but they were neither sufiiciently abundant nor cer- tain to warrant extensive cultivation. We had plants of scarlet and ci-imson sorts, and the great desideratum ap- peared to be a white variety, with flowers equal in size, substance, and abundance to Hogarth or Leiantha; this was happily supplied in the B. JDa- vidsonii, introduced a few years since, and several times referred to in our col- umns at the time and since. The flow- ers of this splendid variety are pure white, of large size, and produced in great abundance. Another new white variety, known as the B. Vreelandi, soon followed the former, our florists thereby being furnished the most ex- cellent white Bouvardias. The intro- duction of these varieties increased the popularity of the entire genus wonder- fully, and set all of our florists on the 126 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. lookout for other variations from origi- nal types. Now we have the Bride, flowers slightly tinged with flesh color, and Bridesmaid, a delicate -phik color, and Rosalinda with a salmon-pink tinge; and now we have another new variety to add to the list, raised by Henry E. Chitly, of the Bellview Nurseries, Pater- son, N. J. It has been named Bouvar- dia elegans incamata, and is a sprout from the well known B. elegans. The flowers are of a delicate flesh color, or what is usually termed among florists, incamata. They are large, and pro- duced in the greatest profusion. The plant is a strong and vigorous grower. We bespeak for this new sort a cordial welcome and high appreciation by all lovers of beautiful winter - blooming plants. Ne-w Double Poinsettia. — A new variety has been introduced in New York, and is now in the possession of Isaac Buchanan. The flower cluster is stated to be often fourteen to eighteen inches in diameter, and about six inches high. In the opinion of The AgricuU- urist, ' ' It will certainly take high rank for conservatory decoration, especially as it holds its color so long, and for florists and bouquet-makers the clusters of small and brilliant bracts will be in- valuable. It was discovered by Louis Roezl, who found it in a small Indian village in the State of Guerrero, Mexi- co, in May, 1873. — Horticidlurist. Blue King is the name of a new and really good blue-colored bedding Pan- sy, just introduced in English gardens. The flowers are described as fine in form, of a deep vivid blue color, with a bright and conspicuous yellow eye. It is not liable to sport, nor to be scorched by the summer's sun. A Rare Plant. — The London Garden describes the Godwinia gigas, lately in full flower for the fii'st time in that country. It is an Arold, with a large leaf and flower. The flower, or more properly, spathe, was nearly two feet long and a foot and a half in circumfer- ence, on a stem only eighteen inches high. It came from Nicaragua, where it is stated the petiole is often ten feet lonff. A Good Outlook for Raisin-growers. — The value of the raisins imported in- to the United States in 1878, valued at the port from which they were shipped, was $2,498,457. Spain produced, in 1873, 2,000,000 boxes. Of these there were purchased for the United States uj) to January 1st, last, 1,032,005 boxes, against 1,009,270 boxes in 1872. Esti- mated stock on hand in Spain, January 1st, 1874, 265,000 boxes, against 505,- 000 boxes on hand same time in 1873. There have been lately sold for the Uni- ted States 80,000 boxes at 25 reals or $3.12^ per box of 25 lbs. for common layers, and 25 to 27 reals or $3.25 to $3.37^ per box for loose Muscatels. The duty on raisins is five cents per pound, which adds to the purchase jnice $1.25 per box; add to this the freight and commission^ insurance, etc., and these imported raisins must come very high — not less than $5 per box — to the consumer. We have, also, the information from Malaga that the price of raisins has gone up since the last transaction above referred to, to 31 and 33 reals per box. This is certainly a most encouraging exhibit for our Cal- ifornia producers of raisins, and should give an impetus to the planting of vines of the approved raisin varieties. Those who have large vineyards of common varieties should feel encouraged to graft them to the White Muscat of Al- exandria, White Muscatel, and other good kinds. THE CALIFORNIA HOKTICULTURIST. 127 FLOEAL REVIEW. BY F. A. MILLER. After three moutlis of almost constant rain, the Latter part of March has be- come more kindly and genial, and the effect of the last few clear and pleasant days upon the vegetation of plants and trees is plainly visible everywhere, both within and out of doors. The spring- time is upon us, and if the change is not so remarkable here as in the colder climates of the East and North, we are nevertheless quite willing to bid fare- well to a long and dreary "rainy sea- son." There have undoubtedly been planted not less than 250,000 evergreen trees, for shade and ornament, during the winter just past. Three-quarters of these consisted of EiLcalyptus globulus (Blue Gum), Pinus insignis (Monterey Pine), Cupressus macrocarpa (Monterey Cypress), Cupressus Laivsoniana (Law- son Cypress), and Acacias. It is pleas- ing and significant of prosperity to see this growing disposition to plant trees, and I hope to see at no distant day our barren valleys and hills covered with these monuments of industry and civil- ization. When our farmers begin to plant trees, they will ere long ornament their homes with flowers and vines, and their dwellings, once barren and deso- late in appearance, will soon show signs of happiness and comfort. So far, the trade in flowering plants has been very dull, but this must be at- tributed to the lateness of the spring season, and I hope to see many thou- sands of them planted out during April and May. This is a good time to plant Roses and other flowering shrubs; bedding plants, also, such as Verbenas, Petuni- as, Pansies, Pinks, Geraniums, Fuch- sias, etc. Gladioluses, Dahlias, Tube- roses, and other summer flowering bulbs, should be jilanted at once. I am often asked, * ' What shall I do with my Hyacinths after they have done flowering?" I advise to plant them in the ground, where they will thrive and flower for years to come. The Hya- cinths which have flowered with us dur- ing the winter of 1872-3 were planted in the open ground, and received no attention whatever. They flowered fine- ly during these last winter months. All kinds of annuals may be now sown. Some of the most desirable kinds are: Asters, Balsam, Phlox Drummondii, Delphinium (Larkspur), Zinnia, Stock Gilly, Sweet Pea, Portulacca, Mignon- ette, Candytuft, Gypsophila, etc. Cut -flowers have continued to be scarce during the month of March, and our florists had hard work to supply the demand, particularly for fine flowers. The supply from the greenhouses con- sisted chiefly of Camellias, Azaleas, Epiphyllums, Hyacinths, Heliotropes, Cinei'arias, Eupatoriums, Chinese Prim- roses, Abutilon (vexillarium), Lilies of the Valley, Orange-blossoms, and Cy- clamens. From the open air, the bulk of flowers was made up of Violets, Ro- ses, Pinks, Pansies, Forget-me-nots, Hyacinths, Narcissuses, Antholyza (bi- color), Tulips, Candytuft, Stock Gillies, Fuchsias, Gyjjsophilas, Habrothamnus {elegans), Laurustinus, Polygalas, Dios- ma {alba), Ericas, Sweet Alyssum, and Abutilons. The prosj^ect for an abundance of flowers during the mouth of April is good. Under glass we may expect, in addition to those already enumerated, the following : Agapanthus {umbellatus). Begonias, Cactuses, Cape Jasmines, Eu- charises, Torenias, double Geraniums, Streptocarpuses, Dentas (carnea), Aphe- landras, Astilbe (Japonica), Chorezemas, Allamandas, andRhyncospermums; and 128 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. in the open air, Roses, Pinks, Deutzias, and other hardy flowering shrubs and plants, will furnish their full quota. Of rare plants, I noticed in bloom during last month, Strelitzia reginw (Bird of Paradise), which is always admired for its most peculiar and effective flow- er, which remains in perfect condition for a long time; also, Fliajus grandijlo- rus, a very showy Orchid, which has re- mained in constant bloom with us for about two months. This Orchid is of easy culture, and should be in every collection. ♦ Application of Liquid Manure in Holland. — The Hollanders are noted for their application of liquid manure directly to growing crops. It is ai^plied particularly to transplanting crops, es- pecially to Cabbage, and it is the secret of their great success in raising Cauli- flowers. The application in these cases is made but once, and that at the time of setting, immediately when the plants are to start, but allowing it to settle away before setting the plants. To fruit-trees it is applied in the fol- lowing manner: An iron-shod stake of about three inches in diameter, with a spur on one side, to place the foot on, is used to make a circle of holes just under the ends of the branches, about eighteen inches or two feet apart, and from twelve to fifteen inches deep, and the liquid manure poured into them. After the liquid has settled away, the holes are filled up again, so that the liquid can not be evaporated, or the earth baked by the heat of the sun. In wet weather the liquid manure is applied alone, but iu dry weather it is diluted with an equal quantity of water. The application is made from time to time, commencing when the fruit is well set, and ending when the fruit be- gins to mature. — AUa. EEMAEKS ON FRUIT CULTURE, AND REPORT ON THE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE MARKET. BY E. J. HOOrER. As the season for planting out small fruits is not yet i)assed, I would urge on every family having a small garden- plat in the country, or even in the towns where the climate is favorable, to raise at least a portion of their own fruit. There is no greater enjoyment than to get berries fully ripe (oftentimes a fail- ure in the markets), and freshly picked, on the table, instead of the much han- dled and often stale market fruit. Ev- ery farmer at least ought to have his home patch of Strawberries, Raspber- ries, Grape-vines, etc., enough to sup- ply the table, and can or preserve for winter use. Three or four hundred Strawberry plants, set out one by one and a half feet apart, kept free from runners, and well attended to, will fully supply any family. I would advise to plant either of the following kinds, for early as well as late use: Longworth's Prolific, Triomj)he de Gand, or Victo- ria, Jucunda, Agriculturist, Kentucky Seedling, and Wilson's Albany. The Strawberry is one of the healthiest and most luscious fruits, and no family un- der favorable circumstances for it, would be without a small patch, after once properly trying it. Raspberries ought to follow, and a hundred jDlants, three by four or two by four feet apart, planted in hedge form, would give a fair supply. Let only three to four shoots grow to the stock; stop the growth of the principal shoots at about four feet, and of side shoots at six to eight inches. Manure yearly in the hill if the soil be rather poor or clay- ey, and, of course, keep the plants free from weeds. The Red Ras^jbeiTy is generally, and especially in California THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 129 and EurojDe, considered better flavored than the Black. Here I would recom- mend the Falstafif, Red Antwerp, Or- ange, and Blackcap. These are superior varieties, but all kinds are hardy enough for this country. Farmers gather their Blackberries in the fields and woods generally, but they would get better fruit with as little trou- ble, byi^lanting from fifty to seventy-five shoots, six by six feet apart, in their gardens, and cultivating them the same as Raspberries. Though the Kittatin- ny, Dorchester, and Wilson are perhaps preferable for marketing, as they are ripe when they color, yet, when fully ripe, no Blackberry is as good as the old and well-tried Lawton — none surpasses it in flavor, sweetness, or appearance. If a farmer, or a horticulturist in any way, has no vineyard, he ought to have an arbor, or at least a few vines raised near his house, or on some of his build- ings, where they take away no space, and give fair returns for little labor; but the kinds suited for arbors and buildings are the Catawba and Isabella, and a very few of the foreign desciip- tions. I would urge once more, upon every farmer and those who have even small yards in cities, to make a beginning at once, and start a small patch of Straw- berries and Raspberries immediately, before the rainy season is entirely over. Success in fruit culture, as in every- thing else, depends upon certain condi- tions. If these conditions are met, we are sure to succeed. Our climate is certainly right, and our soil generally is right, so as to make success attaina- ble in every part of our State. Blackberry as well as Raspberry bush- es should be well cut back as soon as convenient after bearing, to about four or five feet in height, and all side shoots pinched ofi' at the tips every two or Vol. IV.— 17. three weeks, down to August; all suck- ers should be kept down, and all old wood removed. This will make them hardy, and the fruit will be earlier, larger, and more abundant. The Black- berry is a most valuable and neglected fruit, and far more worthy of attention for wine-making than it receives. If we consider the large amount of fruit that might be annually shipped by express and railroad companies, it seems strange that those corporations are not more ready to meet the wants of the public, or more awake to their own in- terest, in inducing still larger shipments than have hitherto been made, by al- lowing better living rates. By reducing the charges from the present extravagant tariffs to more reasonable figures, ship- ments would be more than double, and profits likewise, Oiu- large fruit-raisers should, by united action, take steps to induce such modifications in freight rates as are necessary. Regarding the markets, the spring season is exceedingly backward. Last year. Strawberries and various kinds of early vegetables were in the market about the middle of March. New Po- tatoes were in from the Presidio weeks earlier than they are this year, but this season's crop of early new Potatoes has been destroyed by frost. The infamous practice of palming off on credulous housekeepers volunteer Potatoes for new, at prices the latter would pre- sumedly command were they in the market, has been extensively carried on by the retailers. A little care in the examination of the eyes and skin of the Potatoes offered for sale as new, will enable the purchaser to detect the fraud in time to prevent being victimized. Lots of genuine new Potatoes were of- fered for sale at 8 to 10c. per lb. , but were very small and watery. They were readily recognized from the false tubers. 130 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTUEIST. through the pale color and teuderness of their skins. Pug-et Sound Kidneys, old croi"), sell at 4c., and Mendocino and Humboldt at 2ic. to 3c. , per lb. String- Beans and the new crop of Green Peas ought to have commenced making their appearance in the market by this time, but the prospects are not good for any for at least two weeks to come, and not even as early as that, unless we have Avarm weather in the meantime. Old crop Green Peas are offered at 20c. to 25c. per lb. Cabbages are scarce and dear. Mission Cabbages are very infe- rior. The best lots are now received from the San Pedro rancho, in San Ma- teo County, whence some very large heads have been lately received, weigh- ing as much as forty pounds, and sell- ing readily for 50c. each. The range is 10c. to 50c. each. Spring Cabbages will soon be in the market. Asparagus is now plentiful; white from Sacramen- to is quoted at 20c. to 25c. per lb., and green irom Centerville, Alameda Coun- ty, at 25c. to 40c. Cabbage Sprouts have advanced to 15e. per lb. Horse- radish is 20c. per lb; Red Pejjper, 50c. ]}er lb.; Green Artichokes, 75c. per dozen; Jerusalem Artichokes, 8c. per lb.; Rhubarb, the first of the season, 25c. per lb. The fruit market remains about the same. Oranges continue at the head of the list. Recent extensive importa- tions of the new crop of Oranges from Tahiti have had no perceptible eflect upon the market. The prices of Loreto and Los Angeles Oranges have under- gone no change, while they continue to command public favor. Following are the present retail prices of this kind of fruit: Los Angeles, 15c. to 75c. per doz. ; Loreto, 50c. to 75c. ; Tahiti, 50c. Bananas are still selling at from 50c. to 75c. per doz.; Preserved Bananas, 25c. to 37^c. per packet; Lemons, 25c. to $1 00 per doz.; Citrons, 15c. each; Co- coanuts, 12^c. each; Dates, 25c. per lb.; California Raisins, 25c.; California Dried Figs, 25c. to 30c.; California Walnuts, 25c.; Eastern do., 25c.; Al- monds, soft-shell, 40c.; do.; hard-shell, 25c. ; Butternuts, 25c. ; Hazelnuts, 30c. ; Peanuts, 25c. There have been some large receipts of choice Apples from Oregon during the week, which are now retailing at Gc. to 10c. per lb. Ship- ments from the mountain districts in the interior are daily exjDected. Apples and Pears are very scarce, and a really good article commands a fancy price. It is vinusual for the sup- ply of Pears to give out at this season of the 3'ear. The reason is said to be the liberal shipments to the East last fall. Large consignments of Oregon Apples are received by each steamer, but they are inferior to the California fruit in consequence of being impreg- nated with the flavor of the pine boxes containing them. Oranges and Lemons are the only varieties of domestic fi-uit that are abundant. Los Angeles Or- anges are now coming forward in liber- al quantities, but the weather is rather cool for a large consumption, and they are selling slowly. We quote Bananas at 50c.; Smyrna Figs, *35c. per lb.; A.p- ples, by the box, delivered, $2 to $3 50; Italian Chestnuts, 50c. per lb. The Aveather during the last week of March was more favorable than it had been, yet Spring vegetables made their appearance but slowly. New Potatoes, however, came up plentifully, but the price held firm at 8c. to 10c. per lb. Volunteer or bogus new Potatoes were sold to the uninformed for 4c. per lb., but the experienced would not touch them at any price. Old crop Potatoes were all the way from 2^c. to 4c. per lb. Asparagus became plentiful and cheap, and sold at 15c. to 25c. per lb. The THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 131 abundance antl cheapness of this vege- table were the means of reducing the price of okl crop Peas (which ruled the latter part of the month [March] at 20c. to 25c. per lb.), to 15c. @ 20c. Proba- bly we shall not have any Strawberries in market until about the middle of this month (April). The tardiness of the arrival of this delicious and healthy fi-uit is one of the strongest evidences of the backwardness of this season. Last year we had the first Strawberries in pretty good supply about the 12th of March. During the last of March there were several lots of Apples receiv- ed from the Sacramento Talley foot-hills Avhich sold at $1.50 to $2 per box. Other fruits remained (27th March) the same as in the middle of that month. At the beginning of this month (April) vegetables were more abundant and cheaper. Asparagus dropped to 15c. ^25c., and is still declining. Rhubarb is very plentiful, and 10c. lower than ten days since. Potatoes were firm the beginning of April, with no prospect of a decline for a week or two. Spinach is retailing at 6c. ; New Potatoes, 8c. to 10c. ; Lettuce, 20c. to 25c. per doz.; Salsify, 8c. to 10c. per bunch; Potatoes, by the sack, delivered, $2.25 to $2.50 per 100 lbs. About the first week in March the frost mined the then nearly ripe Straw- berries. The market is plentifully sup- plied with Los Angeles and Tahiti Oranges and Oregon Apples at former rates. We quote Bananas at 50c., and Smyrna Figs 35c., per lb. Apples by the box, delivered, at $2 to $3.50; Ital- ian Chestnuts, 50c. per lb. (fDomsipanrtcnff. Sir Samuel Baker says that fire can not advance through grass, even when it is blowing a gale, faster than six miles an hour. YIGOEOUS CONDITION OF STOCKTON PLANTS. Mr. Editor: Some time ago we were exceedingly pleased to notice the fresh, healthy, and vigorous condition of a large climbing Rose, which a fiiend, who is an amateur cultivator, invited us to inspect on that account. It came from Stockton, and is undoubtedly iden- tical with some one of those prolific growers which flourish around the Asy- lum located in that city. It is almost incredible, but we are assured that the plants and fruit-trees in the rich loamy soil of Stockton and vicinity — and this may also be said of San Jose — make a growth of four and five feet in a single season, and that many bear fruit the very first year they are transplanted. It is rather strange, though, to notice that all kinds of shrubbery do not thrive so well in this region, the growth being slow — not more than an inch or so a year —while in this city (San Francisco) the contrary rule prevails, the humidity of the air and the evenness of climate no doubt combining to produce so good a result. While on this subject of shrubbery, and being a novice, we would ask in- formation about a shrub which years ago was very common in the gardens of the interior of Pennsylvania, and in all the Middle States. It was in every gar- den of any pretensions, where all the vegetables of the farm home were cul- tivated, with the flower-bed in the cen- tre. In the midst of this flower-bed flourished the favorite "Shrub-tree," whose fragrant little compact buds, of a deep purple color, could be carried in one's vest pocket for a week or more without losing their pleasant odor. We have never seen this shrub in California, 132 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. and would be pleased to gain some in- formation about it. Perhaps it will not thrive here. Keystone. CALIFOENIA LILIES. / Editor California Hoi'ticulturist : Within the last few weeks my atten- tion has been called to repeated state- ments, appearing in print, in regard to the number of distinct species of Cali- fornia Lilies, all which statements seem to originate from one source. I have no fault to find with the veracity and good intention of the author, but think he would have come much nearer the mark if he had stated that he only knew four species. There are many good and desirable plants in California, not yet described by botanists; and, notwith- standing the statements referred to, I insist upon the fact that six or seven varieties of Lilies have been found on this coast. There may not be sufficient distinction, so far as the structure of the flower is concerned, between Lilium Humboldtii and Lilium Bloomerianum ocellatum of Santa Rosa Island, to in- duce a botanist to establish two species; but, as a florist, I certainly can perceive a very remarkable difference in the roots, foliage, and flowers of the two species above named. If the author referred to did not meet with more than four spe- cies of Lilies in his limited travels, some one else may have done so, and ought to be pardoned for bringing to notice a fifth or even a sixth species, if he hap- pened to discover them. Florist. A Fine Cokal Tree. — In a nursery at Dorking, England, there flowered this summer a fine specimen of the Erythri- na cristagalli. It is supposed to be over fifty years old, and its stump was eight- een inches in diameter. The plant bore thirty spikes of bloom. — Horticulturist. MiUvM (^Uminp, Preserving Zo()logical Specimens from Insects. — The difficulty of preserving zoological specimens from the depreda- tions of insects is a matter of regret and anxiety to every collector, and various methods have been proposed for accom- plishing this desirable object. The compositions into which arsenic and coiTOsive sublimate enter are well known to be very effectual when properly ap- plied; but unless used with caution, they are apt to injure the natural plian- cy of the skins, and are hardly effectual in protecting collections of insects. I have known these substances, even in the hands of the most expert, to pro- duce such tenderness of the skins as to form a considerable obstacle in setting up specimens. To render them effect- ual they must be carefully applied to each specimen, by which the labor of collecting and preserving is considera- bly increased. Every substance which I have tried seems inferior in efficacy and ease of application to the rectified oil of tur- pentine, and my method of using it is as follows: I put the turpentine in a bladder, the mouth of which is firmly tied with a waxed stnng; and nothing more is necessary than to place the bladder thus prepared in the box with the birds, or to tie it to the pedestal on which the birds are perched in a case. If there are any maggots on the birds, I have invariably found that they will soon be dislodged from the feath- ers, fall to the bottom of the case, and die in the course of two days. I have also made the experiment of introduc- ing the common house-fly, the large blue-bottle fly, and moths, into a case of birds so defended, through a small hole in the bottom of the case. The moment the flies enter the box they be- THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. 133 gin to vomit a whitish, glutinous mat- ter, they are much agitated, and the largest of them dies in a few minutes. I have repeatedly introduced, in like manner, active cockroaches; and these strong insects soon became uneasy, of- ten rubbed their sides with their hind feet, and usually died in about an hour and a half. I next got a bird-skin full of living maggots and placed it in my defended case; in about three hours, they were seen coming out in all direc- tions, and fell to the bottom of the case, where they died. For large cases of birds, a pig's or sheep's bladder is sufficient. The turpentine evidently penetrates through the bladder, as it tills the case with its strong smell. — Scientific American, The Weeping Sophora of Japan. — As yet we do not know the full value of weeping trees. It is a peculiarity of most weeping trees not to show their full beauty of character till they have attained a considerable age. Who knows anything of a Weeping Beech who has seen only a young specimen re- cently planted? Why, it is passed by as a mere curiosity. But give it a gen- eration, and it becomes as picturesque as a gale-tossed ship. So it is with the weeping Mountain Elm. Some species, it is true, show their beauty from an early age; but the above named marked examples point to the probability that we can not judge of the effect that will finally be produced by kinds obtained in recent years. One of the most beautiful of all weep- ing trees is the weejjing form of that fine tree, the Japanese Sophora, {So- phora japonica pendula.) When well developed, it is attractive in winter or summer. It is more picturesque in out- line than the Weeping Willow, while the shoots hang most gracefully. It is rather a slow grower, its only fault; like the normal form, it would thrive well on dry soils. As to the position suited for this tree, says The Garden, there is no fairer ob- ject for isolation in some quiet green bay of the pleasure-ground or lawn. It should never be crowded up in a plan- tation or a shrubbery with a number of ordinary trees, which, if they do not rob it at the root, or shade it at the top, will prevent its beauty from being seen. Tkees as Historians of the Past.— It may have taken a French savant years to ascertain what is a matter of common knowledge with wood-cutters. I have understoodfor more than thirty years that a thin ring indicated a cold season, and a thicker one a correspondingly warm season. Another point which I have observed (and which is not mentioned in the Gros article) is this: In trees that are in an open field, or even in the forest where there is no particular j)ro- tection from the north wind, the rings will be thinner on the north side than on the south side of the same tree. The heart is seldom found in the centre of the body. I have no doubt that you would find a tree cut four or five feet from the ground will give a true record of the general meteorological condition of each year of its life. I have often sat down by a newly cut stump of a tree, to count the rings, to note the difference of thickness, and to point out the thin rings to those with me, as indicating a cold year. While speaking of trees, I will men- tion another fact, which I have not seen in print, but which I got from an old gardener. It is that all trees that are not trained out of natural shape will exhibit a profile in exact correspond- ence with the fruit. For extremes, take the Greening Apple and a long slim M !SI -iiTir 134 THE CALIFORNIA H0RTICULTUE3T. Pear. The leaves, even, have a gener- al resemblance to the fruit. — Scientific American. LAGEKSTRcEmA Indica. — Though not so often found in collections as it ought to be, this is one of the finest and most profuse flowering of greenhouse or half-hardy shrubs. It blooms freely in the Palm-house at Kew, where the ends of even its smallest branches terminate in a mass of rosy-purple flowers. Indi- vidually, the blossoms are aboiit the size of a shilling, and have six long- clawed, curled, or crumpled petals, not unlike those of the scandent yellow- flowered Siigmaphylliim ciliaiitm. When well grown this plant is one of the greatest ornaments one could desire, either for a j)lant-stove or cool conserv- atory. It will grow and flower freely, even when jilanted under a sunny wall in the south of England, and during the past summer we have seen it flow- ering very freely out of doors in several of the gardens around Paris. When grown in a pot or tub indoors it makes a shrub eight or ten feet high, and flowers freely every summer or autumn if cut back after blooming. It should have a moderately fresh sandy soil, and should be thoroughly drained. It re- quires a liberal supply of water when growing. In America it does well out of doors, and a plant of it stood fifteen degrees of frost in the Botanic Garden at Brest. It is a native of China. One species, L. regince, grows to a large size, and is much used in India for boat-building and similar purposes, as it lasts well when submerged. — Lon- don Garden. Evaporation by Leaves. — The follow- ing by an Austrian scientist is old, but it may aid our friends who are investi- gating the influence of trees on climate: "Experiments made by Von Pettenko- fer on the amoui of water evaporated from an Oak-tree, ihow that atmospher- ic humidity, in scfar as it depends up- on the presence ( forests, is promoted rather by the rits of trees drawing moisture from thoarth, than by attrac- tion exercised o rain -clouds by the leaves. The lattf serve rather as out- lets through whic the moisture drawn from the soil pas3S into the air. The Oak-tree observe by Pettenkofer was estimated to havcbetween 700,000 and 800,000 leaves, ad the total amount of evaporation in a ear was computed to be 8 J times more han that of the rain- fall on an area ecial to that covered by the tree; the msture exhaled by the leaves being equ; to 211 inches, while that from the rai-fall was but twenty- five inches. The Honetsucle as a Standard. — A writer in the ^illa Gardener thinks that the Honeysukle is one of the most regularly flowerd climbers in cultiva- tion, taking ranker effect, and surpass- ing in many poiis — odor, for instance — even the gorgous colored Clematises which are in eve" modern garden. As a standard, the joney suckle merits the very foremost pbe in our villa ga^jdens. "We have seenit with thousands of flower umbels i pale yellow and pale pink, decorating/ilia grounds in a way that no single iant in the month of July can do." t is scarcely possible in words to por^iy its extreme beauty and effectivencK Buy a plant of it, train or tie it t a stout stake, as one would do a stadard Rose; jDrune it, not too severely Jut in the way a hybrid China Rose ougt to be pruned; give it a good soil to g)w in, and it needs no further attentio. It will grow into a plant that will Pionish, by its flowering capacity, thousads who have not seen it so trained. ^liiiiiiiwr m I ^l^ "N^. "^^^d ^, I3i«i THE CULIPOEMA HORTTCrLTTEIST. 135 JrxE. — Jure is a nbrous plant that grows to a high stalk T-wjiRg from six to twelre ieet high. It is raised in the lowlands of the Easi Indies. The Jute plantations are operated somewhat on the sjstem of the Bice plantations. The water nsed for flooding purposes is tak- en from mdelr constructed reservoirs filled by the melting snow of the Hima- laya Mountains. The plant is kept growing in about eighteen inches of water, which prerents the parching rays of a tropical sun from destroying it. 'When the stalk has attained its full growth, it is pulled up by, or cut off near, the roots. It is then laid out in bales like "Wheat or Rye, and prepared for market. The bark is remoTed, the root is cut off where it is pulled up with the stalk, and where the root is not originally kept, the hard lower end is cut off and thrown into a class commercially known as Jute butts. The remainder is then assorted with regard to length, strength, fineness, and lustre of fibre. The first quality is a beautiful, clear, long fibre, much of it resembling in appearance blonde hair. This is especially used for chignons, bnt it is also nsed in Scotland in the manufacture of fine •Jute cloths. CEiEcoiL r:?. P.- rs?. —Fowls of aU kinds are very fond of cliarcoal, and ■will eat it witli great relish if properly prepared. Pounded charcoal is not the shape in which fowls usually find their food, and consequently is not very en- ticing to them. To please their palate the charcoal should be in pieces of about the size of grains of com, and if these are strewed around their quarters, they will readily eat thereof. Com burnt on the cob, and the refuse (which consists almost entirely of the grains reduced to charcoal, and still retaininsr their perfect shape) placed before them, makes a marked improvement in their health, as is shown by the brighter col- or of their combs, and their soon pro- ducing a greater average of eggs to the fiock than before. A Gbowtsg Desea^hd foe ths ErcALTP- Tus-TEEE. — At a recent meeting of the Board of Trade of Albany, Ga., the Eucalyptus- tree was taken up for spe- cial consideration, and letters concern- ing the utility of the tree and its value as an absorber of moisture in malarial districts, received from residents of New York and San Francisco, were read and discussed. Four trees, the gift of Sonntag & Co., of this city, were exhibited for inspection during the dis- cussion, and, after the adjournment of the meeting, an order for trees was tel- egraphed to this firm at the expense of the Board. "We have frequently called attention to the adaptability of this tree to California, and its increasing poj)U- larity in this State. Eetatstsg the NATrKAL Colors of Dried Flowers. — Puscher recommends sticking the stems in the neck of a glass funnel, leaving the flowers in the wide portion, but leaving about an inch from the top unfilled. The funnel is then to be inverted over a few drops of aqua am- monia on a plate. In a few minutes most blue, violet, and crimson flowers change to beautiful green, dark crim- son to black or dark violet, and white to yellowish. If they are then immedi- ately placed in fresh water, they will re- tain their new color from two to six hours, according to the am.ount of am- monia taken up, but will gradually re- gain their original tints. The custom- ary way of treating blue, violet, and red Asters for winter bouquets with nitric acid gives irregular results, on account 136 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. of the wax on the leaves, and it is pref- erable to expose them to the fumes of hydrochloric acid, by hanging them, tied in pairs by their stems, heads down- ward on strings drawn across the inte- rior of a close wooden box, upon the bottom of which are several plates with hydrochloric acid, and with two glass windows, on opposite sides, through which the progress of the coloration may be noticed, so that the flowers may be removed as they acquire the desired tints, and hung in the same manner in airy, shaded rooms to dry. They should be preserved in a dry, dark place. Potatoes for Planting. — Professor Nobbe has published the following ex- periment : He has placed the potatoes intended for his experiment in a well- lighted and heated room until they be- come wrinkled and greenish in color. At the same time they were planted he also planted Potatoes taken direct from a heap that had been protected by straw and dirt. At the harvest the dried plant Potatoes produced thirty per cent, more in quantity, twenty-two per cent, more in number of Potatoes, and twelve per cent, more eyes. Similar results have been obtained at the Agri- cultural College of Worms. The rea- son for this result may be ascribed to evaporation of moisture, by which the sap of the cells is concentrated, en- abling it to develop itself with a greater sprouting power. Similar observations have been made with seeds. The Land- man's Blad publishes a trial that has been made with Flaxseed, which gave most positive results in the same direc- tion.— Danish Paper. An interesting question in plant-ge- ography is that as to the transport of seeds by ocean currents, and in other ways independent of human agency. M. Thuret has been experimenting on this in Antibes. Having tried two hun- dred and fifty-one different species, he knows of only two kinds of bare seed which are capable of floating, Mauran- dia, and Phormium. A long immersion in sea-water does not always destroy the vitality of seeds. Out of twenty-four species immersed more than a year, at least three germinated afterward, as vigorously as seeds kept quite dry. The noted Wolfskill vineyard, in Los Angeles County, is being uprooted to make room for an Orange orchard. METEOROLOGICAL RECORD, Foe the Month Ending March 31st, 1874. (Prepared for The Horticitlturist by Thos. Tennent, Mathematical InBtrumeut and Cbronoineter-maker, No. 423 Washington Street, near the Post Office) . BAKOMETEB. Mean height at 9 a. m 30.11 in. do 12 m 30.11 do 3p. M 30.10 do tip. M 30.10 Greatest height, on the 31st at 9 a.m. and 12 m 30.26 Least height, on the 16th at 6 p. m 29.8G THEKMOMETEE. ( With north exposure and free from reflected heat. J Mean height at 9 a. m 50" do 12m 55^^ do 3 p. M 55° do 6 p. M 50° Greatest height, on the 27th at 3 p.m 64o Least height, on the 9th at 9 a.m 40« SELF - KEGISTEBING THEEMOMETEE. Mean height at sunrise ... 42° Highest point at sunrise on the 1st and Slst 47° Lowest point at sunrise on the 0th and 18th 35° WINDS, North and north-east on 4 days; south and south-east on 4 days; south-west on 11 days; north-west on 5 days; west on 7 days. Clear on 8 days; 1st .. WEATHEE. cloudy on 11 days; rain on 15 days BAIN GAUGE. variable on 0.58 12 days; 3d... 0.24 4th.. 5th.. 7th.. loth.. 0.04 0 13 0.31 0.04 11th .. 12th 0.40 0.57 13th.. 0.65 14th.. 15th... 0.51 0.07 25th 0.14 26th . . 0.13 27th.. 28th . . 0.20 0.14 Total . . . 3.55 Previously reported Total rain of the season un to date. 18.97 22.52 ; A short sharp earthquake shock occurred on the 5th at 4h. 53m. A.M.; direction from Bouth-east to north-west. THE AND FLORAL MAGAZINE. Vol. IV. MAY, 1874. No. 5. STEMLESS LADY'S SLIPPEK. {Cyprijjedium aeaule, Ait.) — See Feontispiecb. BY DK, A. KELLOGG. There are several species of Lady's Slipper found in California; for exam- ple, the white (C. pitbescenH var.), the yellow (C. Calif ormciim n. sp., Pro. A. A. of A. and Scs. 1867), and the red or pv;rple rose -colored one here figured. "We have devoted much time and labor in order to furnish some adequate out- line, by sketching, engraving, and elec- trotyping with our own hands, and coloring this plant, in aid of those who might have misgivings from a mere de- scription, which, however plain to the describer, often proves to another ex- ceedingly vague, apart from the form and color. The plant, as its name implies, has no branching or leafy proper stem, but only a flower -stem, with two oblong root-leaves. The pink or purple lower lip has a somewhat closed fissure down its whole length in front. The scape is one-flowered, bract greenish, and sepals more or less colored. Flowers in May and June. The roots of these plants are used as a nervine, being a good substitute for Vol. IV.— 18. Valerian, which also abounds in Cali- fornia. The exhilarant eflects are very similar to those of Vanilla, one of the most delightful aromatics known, and which also belongs to the same family. Where venous congestion exists from irritation and loss of nervous energy rather than from repletion, it is of great service. Yet, after all, it is its charm- ing beauty that burns while it chariots the soul up in the blue — buoying the laggard body too aloft, balloon-like — prophetic of the good time coming, when all regions may be more safely navigated. Beauty forever, like the beloved bird of the ark, native of the skies, flies heavenward when rapine and dangers impend. So also the thoughts of aesthetic uses we most admire : these on willing wing oft seek serener realms to circumspect this petty, pestered, sin- worn world below; therefore, every nat- ural object that lures and aids one fee- ble, faltering step from the sordid mire is an angel sent to Lot, that he may, at least, reach the little^ city. The ruddy beauty, nymph-like, hides beneath sheltered and shady evergreen groves of freshening forest, far north- ward along the colder wind and fog line of the coast, and similar isothermal 138 THE CALIFOKNIA HORTICULTURIST. regions of the interior. The species must be rare, for, altbougli it is said by an English collector to be found here, we, at least, have never been fortunate enough to meet with it. Should any one of our readers know of its locality, they would confer a favor on the writer by addressing to him a note (Post-office box 2350), and also much oblige many horticultural friends. Many rare Orchids are found near San Francisco: two Cypripediums, Ca- lypso, Epipactis, Habenarias, Platanthe- ras, Spiranthes, and othera LAC AND ITS PEODUCTS. Lac is a resinous substance formed on several different kinds of trees in the East Indies, and produced by the punct- ures of an insect ( Coccus Incca), and by its formation of the exuding juices into cells for its eggs. These adhere to the branches in grains, comjDletely incrusting them, and are either imported in that form, and called stick-lac, or the grains are gathered from the branches, their col- oring matter extracted, and formed in- to flat cakes, still preserving the granu- lar appearance, and called seed-lac, or the seed-lac is melted up into masses, and called lump-lac. Finally there is shell-lac, which is seed-lac further puri- fied by being j^ut in bags of fine linen, and melted over a charcoal fire until it passes through them. The bags are squeezed and passed over a smooth sur- face of wood, on which the lac is- depos- ited in thin layers. If pure, this kind of lac will take fire on a hot iron, and burn with a powerful smell. By pouring warm water on stick-lac a crimson coloring matter is obtained, which is made into square cakes for sale, and is called lac -dye, lac-lake, or cake-lake. These cakes when broken are dark-colored, shining, and compact, but when scraped they yield a bright red powder approaching carmine. The cakes of lac-dye from India are stamp- ed with certain marks, the best being D. T., the second best J. McR., the third C. E., which are the initials of different manufacturers. The cakes do not in general contain more than 50 per cent, of coloring matter, the rest being resin 25, and alumina, plaster, chalk, and sand 25. The dye above refeiTed to, and which constitutes much of the value of lac, is due to the insect which makes the cells, and which is of the same family as the cochineal insect. The parent lac insect, after laying her eggs, becomes a mere lifeless bag, of an oval shape, contain- ing a small quantity of a beautiful red liquid. The young insects feed on this liquid, and their bodies assume the same hue, so that the branch which bears them appears to be covered with red powder. The cells of gum-lac which shelter them are more or less deeply tinged with the same color, and the best time for gathering stick-lac, so as to secure the coloring matter, is before the insects have made their escaj^e. Previous to the discovery of the true cochineal, the coloring matter of the lac insect was universally employed for dye- ing red. The crimsons of Greece and Rome, and the imperishable reds of the Bi-ussels and Flemish schools, were ob- tained from this source. The best quality of stick-lac is obtained from Siam; that from Assam ranking next. Of late years lac-dye has been again substituted for cochineal on account of its greater cheapness, and also on ac- count of its being less affected by pei*- spiration than cochineal. So abundant is the supply of lac among the uncultivated mountains of India, that it is asserted a consumption THE CAUTOEXIA HOKTICrLTTEIST. 139 ten times greater than the present miiiht be readilv met. — Cabinet Maker. THE ALDEE, BT E. J. HOOPEE. The Alder (Alnus glutinosa, natural order BetulacceJ is one of the largest and most picturesque of the aquatic trees. Its verr name points out the sit- uation most congenial to its growth. Some writers have considered it to be derived from the Celtic al, near, and Ian, edge of water. There are several species of this tree. Thev are found in most parts of the north temperate zone, and are principallv distinguished from one another bv variety in the form or color of the leaves. Thev all prefer a moist soil, and generally are found by the side of water. Its aver- age height is forty or fifty feet, though in a rich and damp soil it has been known to exceed sixty feet. The bark is of a blackish color, and as the tree advances in age this becomes rough and seems full of clefts. The leaves are of a deep bright green, from three to four inches long. The natural color of the wood is white; it is soft, easily worked, and extremely perishable if exposed to the weather. It can be ap- plied to many domestic purposes, be- ing soft, and easily worked into spin- ning-wheels (in old times), trenchers, bowls, dairy utensils, kneading-troughs, etc. The timber of the old trees is full of knots, and hardly inferior in beauty to the Maple. The bark possesses as- tringent qualities, and almost any part of the tree can be used in dyeing. The Alder is the most aquatic tree of the Sylva, even more so than the Wil- low or Poplar. A damp marshy spot is most congenial to its growth; but though moisture is necessary, a rich j soil is equally indispensable. If plant- I ed in a dry and elevated situation, it dwindles to a dwarf stunted shrub. It is then by the standing pool, and the dank, cool marsh, the limpid brook, the full deep-flowing stream, and in the " cool, green, shadowy river nook," that we must seek if we would find the Al- der. With such scenes and spots it has become as it were identified, and its dense shade and bright green foliage well harmonize with the snrroimding scene, and invite beneath their welcome shelter the wanderer or angler oppressa- ed with heat and blinded by the rays of the summer sun. The poet Wordsworth has thus depicted it : " I looked aroimd, and there. Where two tall hedge-rows of thick Alder boTighs Joined in a cold damp nook, espied a veil Sbrooded with 'WiDov fflcnrezs and pfamj Ferns." It is rare to meet in any eormtry an old Alder, as they are generally cut down before they have attained perfection- General Fremont, in his narrative of his journey across the western plains, notices a species of green Alder (Alnus viridisj on the banks of some of the riT- ers he crossed. In England there is one seventy feet high, the diameter of the trunk four feet, and that of the space shaded by the branches sixty-five feet. The Alder is propagated by cuttings of the root, layers, or seeds; this latter method appears to succeed better than any other. It is well calculated for planting in parks, and for omanieDtal aquatic scenery, not only from its pict- uresque form, and the vivid color and density of its foliage, but the length of time it retains its leaves. It is useful in such situations, for the shelter it af- fords is beneficial to the grass beneath J it, and grateful to cattle, while they 140 THE CMilFOEXIA HOETICULTURIST. ■VN'ill not touch its leaves if other food is within their reach. Some authors have characterized the AWer as " au ugly, melaucholy tree, " and too many pass it by ignorant of its value and utility. But "in nature there is nothing melaucholy," and with equal truth, I think, I may add, noth- ing without utility. The Alder does not hang over the limpid stream, or the reed-grown pond, merely to derive from them the sustenance it requires, cumbering without benetiting the spot. Its numerous fibrous and creeping roots serve to strengthen anti support the bank on which it grows, and some wri- ters have considered that, like the Eu- calyptus globulus, now so much grown in California, it exhales properties which correct the unhealthy miasma generally prevailing in low and marshy grounds. On these accoiruts, the Al- der is often planted, when not natm-al- ly found in such spots, to serve as a rem- edy for the injiuies which floods often l?roduce. Like a true and attached fiiend, it repays, according to its pow- er, the benefits received; and hence poets, both ancient and modern, have adopted it as the emblem of gratitude and devoted affection: " There the Alder, darkly green, In sxich fixed attitude doth fondly lean O'er the clejur brook, as t'wonld not lose one tone Of its sweet p. is, certainly would grow well on overf wed marsh- ground in our bay. It wo d yield con- siderable fuel, would prote , the ditches of reclaimed lands, and ( aid be used for the manufacture of so( The only difficulty in in1 )ducing this tree is the peculiarity of a Mangroves, the circumstance of thei. seeds never being in a dormant state. It is next to impossible to obtain thei in growing ^\i THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 149 order, aud it is only the last invoice of seeds that inspires me with the hope to introduce this valuable tree. VINEYAKD INTEEESTS. "We noted the other daj the fact that some large vineyards in Los Angeles County had been uprooted because they did not yield a profit to the owners. The room was wanted for Orange-trees. There are many vineyards in the State which have not met the expectation of proprietors. They have not failed in prodiaction. But they have not, on the other hand, yielded a satisfactory' revenue. Either they are too remote from markets or the Grapes are not of the most desirable sorts. Probably the most satisfactory returns have been re- alized by owners of small vineyards, stocked with the choicest varieties of table Grapes, aud in such jDroximity to the city that the Grapes could be pla- ced in market within four or five hours after shipping. But there is a limit even to this trade. Prices come down as choice Grapes become abundant. The market can be easily overstocked. C. D. Brooks, of El Dorado County, writes to the Rural Presa as follows: "I have seen several inquiries in the liaral for information in regard to rai- sins. I send you a sample of those I raise and cure. The raisins are made from the "Malaga Muscat," or Muscat of Alexandria ; and, after a long and close investigation, I am satisfied in my own mind that this is the raisin of com- merce, and no other Grape will make a raisin at all, but will simpl}' be dried Grapes when cured, except the "Royal Muscadine," which makes a fair raisin, thovigh smaller and the seed larger. I have had several hundi'ed boxes of these raisins in market the last two years, and have had many letters of commend- ation and inquiry in regard to them. I find it to be a profitable business. They have brought in the San Francis- co market, this winter, fifteen cents per pound, wholesale. I am extending my vineyard of them every year ; grow them on hill-slopes. What cuttings I don't use I have been giving away for several years. I paid $12 per hundred for the first I set, and then cultivated for raisins. The habit of the Grape will have to be closely observed by the cul- tivator. I have been prompted to write these lines, because it is too bad for a person to set vineyards for raisins, and cultivate them for four years, and then have nothing but dried Grapes, that he can hardly sell at any price." The larger part of the raisins produced here last year Avas of the second and third qualities, but these have been de- sirable for cooking purposes ; while the really good raisins have brought good prices. An old vineyard can be grafted with the new varieties, which will come into bearing the second year from the graft. A vineyard once reconstructed in this way, all the troublesome ques- tions about remoteness from market and over-production are disjDosed of at once. It is certain that our vineyard men must seek other outlets for their Grapes than such as they have heretofore found. They want more satisfactory returns, and something, also, to compensate them for waiting a great many years for only theoretical profits. It is not every- one who can turn his vineyard into an Orange orchard. But he can exchange inferior productions for the best in a short time. Where the Orange comes to perfection, the Muscat Grape also ripens, and only needs a skillful touch to turn it into the best raisin of com- merce.— Bulletin. Cf 150 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. THE FRUIT PEOSPECT. The prospect for an immense frnit crop in this valley the present season is most propitious. The orchards, for the last two months, have been a cloud of blossoms — first the Almond, next the Peach and Apricot, then the Cher- ry, and now the Plum, Prune, Pear, and Apple. The yield promises to be beyond all precedent, and hundreds of tons of choice fruits would be left to perish upon the ground, as in times past, but for the increased facilities for preserving and shipping it. Two years ago, Mr. Daw^son, then recently from the East, a gentleman of foresight and ability, conceiving the idea of starting a fruit cannery on an extensive scale, determined to preserve fruits in such a manner and of such a quality as would necessarily commend them to public use. He put up the first j^ear 10,000 cans. His fruit was select- ed with great care, all imperfect fruit be- ing rejected. It was carefully cleansed of all impurities, none but neat and tidy women being employed in its prep- aration, and preserved in the best possi- ble manner. This fruit fotind a ready sale, and demonstrated the future suc- cess of the entei'prise. Last year he erected suitable buildings for the busi- ness, and put up in like superior man- ner 100,000 cans. But this is scarcely a priming to what the business will grow to in his hands. The present year he Avill probably preserve a quarter of a million cans. But we need in addition to this a fruit-drying establishment — in fact, a number of such establishments. The Alden process, now coming into use ex- tensively in the East, could not fail of meeting with success here. It pre- serves the fruit in all its perfection of flavor by simply expelling the water. and retaining all of the valuable prop- erties of the fruit. Last year our fruit- growers shipped a hundred car-loads of fruit — Pears mostly — from this valley to the East. By the Alden process they could save moving this immense bulk — finding it more profitable first to expel the useless water. We regard fruit culture as the mop.t imjiortant industry that our farmers can engage in, wherever the land is J well adapted to the business. With skillful management we believe it can be made to pay thrice the profit of grain growing. — San Jose 3Iercury. Nitrogen and Vegetation. — Our for- eign journals bring the usual number of accounts of agricultural investiga- tions, particularly in the experiment stations, of which some new ones have been lately established in Germany. Ritthausen and Pott, of the station at Poppelsdorf , in Prussia, have lately been studying the influence of manures, rich in nitrogen, upon the composition of plants fertilized by the same. Ritt- hausen concludes that by increasing the amount of nitrogen in the food sujd- plied to the plant, the percentage of ni- trogen, both in the plant as a whole and in its different parts, may be increased. Dehorain has investigated the rela- tions of atmospheric nitrogen to veg- etation by experiments on the absorp- tion of nitrogen by carbonaceous mat- ters, as glucose, decayed wood, etc., mixed with alkalies. He concludes that atmospheric nitrogen can, either in the cold or at the temperature of the soil, fix itself on carbonaceous matter analo- gous to that which is found in vegetable decomposition, and that the presence of oxygen is unfavorable to this reaction. He infers that carbonaceous matter in manure is advantageous, since it liber- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 151 ates hydrogen in decomposing, and ren- ders the conditions for absorbing nitro- gen more favorable by removing oxygen from the air confined in the soil. — Har- per's Magazine. FOREST TREES FROM SEED. Every year advances our knowledge of forest culture, and convinces those who give the subject any attention that it possesses all the importance claimed for it. Those most directly interested are the dwellers on the treeless plains of the West, but the people of the East are waking up to the fact that their for- ests are going, and that they must bestir themselves if they would have shade and timber, to say nothing of water. There is no use in thinking that a plantation of young trees can in all, or even most cases, be raised without much care. There are a good many chances that a young tree, whether it be transplanted or grown from the seed, will fail to reach maturity, but raising from the seed is attended with less first cost, and this, at least, is an attractive feature. "We find in the American Agriculturist the following condensed statement of the properties and habits of various tree seeds, most of which may be ob- tained from any dealer who keeps a gen- eral assortment: '^Evergreens we can not advise the ordinary farmer to undertake to raise from seed, they require so much care in shading and otherwise, and small plants are sold by those who make a business of growing them at such low rates that we are sure that 90 in 100 will find it much more satisfactory in the end to purchase. We therefore confine our remarks to deciduous trees. Tree Seeds that 7nust be Sown as soon as Ripe. — Soft or Red, and Silver Ma- ple, Elm, and Red Birch. If kept ex- posed even for a few days after they are gathered, their vitality will be de- stroyed. These seeds are generally kept by seedsmen ; though some take orders in advance, to be filled when the seeds ripen. Those who wish to sow seeds of these should arrange before- hand with some friend to gather them, or dealer to supply them, and be pre- pared to sow the day they are received. The j^lants come up at once, and make nice young trees by fall. Tree Seeds to be Soivn in Place — that is, the seed is to be sown where the tree is to stand — include the difli'erent Hickories, the Butternut, and Black Walnut. The seeds are collected in fall, made into heaps, and covered with sods, over which are thrown several inches of earth. In the spring the nuts are sown in place, putting in two or three near together; and if all start, re- move all but one. Seeds of Trees (hat may be Soivn in Fall. — Ash of various species. Liquid- amber or Sweet Gum, Tulip-tree, Cu- cumber, and other Magnolias. These may also be sown in spring if properly kept through the winter in sand. Seeds better Sovm in the Spring (they should be carefully kept through the winter in sand). — Maples of all kinds, including the Ash-leaf or Box Elder, and excejDting the Silver and Soft; Birches, excej^t the Red; Bass-wood; Kentucky Coffee-tree ; Ailanthus ; Ca- talpa; Paulownia. Seeds needing Pi^eparation before sow- ing in spring. — Osage Orange, scald and keep warm and moist until it sprouts; Button-ball, soak; Honey Lo- cust, and Common or Black Lociist, scald. Seedling trees require just as much thinning and weeding as a crop of Car- rots. If they suffer from the heat of I5i'" 152 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. the sun, stick brush with the leaves on all over the bed sufficiently thick to give a proper shade, or use a screen of laths." "Wii.L Ckanbekries grow in Califor- nia ? — We answer, yes, if jDroperly culti- vated on suitable soil. There is but little such soil in this State as they use East for Cranberry culture. There are man}' Cranberries now produced in the boggy soils in Oregon and Washington Territory. In some of the high mount- ain valleys are those natural bogs, that might be reclaimed and made profitable for Cranberry culture, and we believe that by a few years' flooding in dykes, a suitable bed for Cranberries might be made upon our ordinary soils. The New York Horticulturist thus tells how the culture is managed East: "A sub- scriber having asked us what were the cost and jorofits of Cranberry culture, we answer him as follows : 1. A good cranberry marsh must be made out of boggy, peaty land; sand must be carted ujion it to the depth of six inches, and then the plants set out. The bed must also be so situated that a stream of running fresh water may be turned up- on it at the proper time to flood it en- tirely, to prevent attacks of insects and frosts, and be as quickly shut off and drained. 2. The lowest cost per acre for a bed well prepared. From this upward to $000 and $1,000 per acre have often been exj)ended. 3. The yield in bushels increases gradually from twenty bushels the first year up to 100 or more in the fifth year. Average price of CranbeiTies, $3 j^er bushel to the producer. It requires three j^ears' time to get a good bed well planted in a producing condition, and the income is from $G0 to $200 per acre for three years after that; after the sixth year, $300 to $000 per acre." — Russian liicei' J^lag. Arrowroot. — The Arrowroot most esteemed in this country, is that grown and prejjared in the Bermudas, whoso salubrious climate more nearly resem- bles that of Persia, with the peculiar and agreeable addition of constant sea- breezes, and which appears best adapt- ed to produce the tubers in perfection. As the extent of these isles — nearly 500 ill number — is only about 12,000 acres, occupying a sj)ace of scared}^ twenty miles in length by six in breadth, but a small proportion of our supply is de- rived from them, and Jamaica Arrow- root, being nearly equal to it, comes largely in com2:)etition with genuine Bermuda. The East Indian is not so highly valued, it being too often adul- terated with substitutes for the genuine. The cultivation has also been profitably conducted in Africa, and in the south- ern United States, where a large quan- tity, though of inferior quality, is annu- ally produced. Sir S. W. Baker, in his journey through Arabia, speaks of a peculiar bulb resembling a Sweet Potato, but exceedingly long and thin, which was known to the Arabs as "baboon," and from which he "made excellent Arrowroot," in a sotnewhat jirimitive manner. The Arabs simply roast the roots on embers, and eat them as we do potatoes. — N. Y. Mercantile Journal. How TO Measure the Length of a Tree. — Take a forked stick; measure the length so that it will come exactly uj3 to your eyes ; then measure the length of the timber wanted — say forty feet — in a line out from the tree, and allow for the stump ; then set up your stake, and lie down on your back with your heels at the stake; look through the stake, and the place where the eye strikes the tree will be the length of the timber. The ground ought to be level; if not, allow- ance can be made. .*)«■■ tx ^TEMLESS LaDY'S SlIPPER {Cypi-ipc-diiini acaiile. Ait.) 12 ATT? OS E iaoi*^'^-- Bfffi A fflinJJSE TuMsk lad Aaci i feiii DM an pa i i -;if!jrei,tiS!«K, i |l m lift mmi •actia 154 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. cumference. The river Johnstone, with- in a limited distance of the coast, offers the first and best inducements to sugar cultivation," THE JOYS OF A GOOD GAEDEN. Let any farmer take say an acre of land, more or less, according to the size of his family, fence it so as to keep out fowls and all other depredators, make it thoroughly rich, and then jilant one-half to Graj^es, Blackberries, Rasp- berries, Gooseberries, and Strawberries, Currants, Asparagus, and Rhubarb or Pie-plant. On the other half let him plant, as soon as the ground is fit. Peas, Onions, Lettuce, Radishes, and a few early Beets; also sow some early Cab- bage and Tomato seed for early j^lants, being careful as soon as they are up to cover them at night, to prevent injury by frost. Peas, Onions, Radishes, Let- tuce, and Beets will stand considerable frost with little or no injury. Later, as danger from frost ceases, plant more Peas, Snap Beans, Parsnips, Carrots, late Beets, Summer, Fall, and Winter Squashes, a few hills of early Cucum- bers, and any other vegetable that the family may like. Sow late Cabbage seed, and later in the season plant Cu- cumbers for pickles. After the small fruits have come into :full bearing, let us see what this acre of land will furnish a table. Very early in the season he will have Aspara- gus to whet his appetite on. Soon after. Radishes will be large enough to use. Anon, Currants and Gooseberries will have grown large enough to stew. He will soon after have the pleasure of eating green Peas and Beans, with On- ions for seasoning; and a few early Cu- cumbers, to put him in the humor for Strawberry shortcake, cream, and Straw- berries. And by the time he has finish- ed these the Rasjiberries will be waiting his i^leasure. If he is now tired of fruit, he can have some early Beets and Summer Squashes. The early To- matoes should now be ripe, and Carrots and Parsnips large enough to dig, for a change. His Blackberries should now be rij^e, soon to be followed by the de- licious Grapes. If he is fond of a good baked Squash, let him now try the fine Boston Marrow or the American Tur- ban, and he will have it. Let the surplus small fruits be dried or canned for winter use. Put up a keg of Cucumber pickles; can, preserve, or put up in some way the surplus To- matoes; make a barrel of krout from part of the Winter Cabbage. Holding up the remainder of the Parsnips, Car- rots, and Fall and Winter Squashes, have an endless variety of green and good things, that will last all through the long and dreary winter. Some may think this a fancy and overdrawn pic- ture; but let such try the exjieriment, and see if they do not then say, with me, that in no other way can they have so good, so healthful, and so cheap liv- ing.— Exchange. California Coffee. — It has been re- cently discovered that the foot-hills in the northern portions of this State, no- tably in Placer County, are covered with a hardy wild shrub, which, upon in- vestigation, turns out to be a Coffee plant. Those familiar with the genu- ine cultivated Coffee shrub grown in South America and the West Indies pronounce this unquestionably a plant of the same species, of course inferior, since it has been neglected and grown only in a wild state, but presumably susceptible of development to such a de- gree of perfection as to constitute its product a valuable article of commerce. THE CALirOENIA HORTICULTURIST. 155 It is, at least, well worth the trouble of experiment to demonstnite the possibil- ity of such a result. Even should this wild Coffee bush resist the kindly influ- ences of cultivation and refuse to yield good berries, it may still prove of ser- vice in sugg-esting" the exjDeriment of introducing- the cultivation of the real Coflfee. So far as we are informed, no attempt has been made to test the suit- ability of our soil and climate for this crop, and it is too imj)ortant a matter for the suggestion to be permitted to pass unheeded. Should it be found that we are able to produce a fair article of Coffee, a branch of agriculture will have been opened more profitable than any now known in the State. — Chronicle. ORANGE CULTURE VS. VINE CULTURE. We have lately published some in- teresting communications upon the sub- ject of Orange culture in California. The facts set forth in the communica- tions prove beyond a doubt that the Orange may be cultivated in nearly all parts of the State as successfully as the Apple, Peach or Plum. They also prove that the cultivation of the Orange, wherever engaged in in the State, has proved more profitable than the cultiva- tion of any other fruit. The cultivation of the Orange in some of the Southern Atlantic States seems to have been attended with the same pecuniary success as here. In Georgia the introduction of this fruit, and the great success which has attended it, have raised the value of land adaj)ted to its culture to the sum of $500 an acre. In Los Angeles, the home of the vine, a locality in which the vine flourishes, and produces a wine equal to the most renowned wine-growing districts of the Old World, so great has been the suc- cess in Orange culture, and so profita- ble has its culture proven, that owners of the oldest and best vineyards are dig- ging up the vines and planting the land in Orange-trees. The Los Ange- les Ejcpress, in announcing this fact, says : " It makes one sad to see vineyard after vineyard torn up by the roots, and the fine old trunks cut up into firewood. The Wolf skill vineyard, one of the finest in the county, planted thirty-five years ago, is among those that have been dug up. On account of the low price of Grapes during late years, this vineyard has been maintained at an actual loss of $2,000 a year to the proprietors. The manufacture of wines and brandies from the Grape have been so weighed down b}' taxation and the oppression and annoyance of government red tape, that capital has been actually driven out of the business, and when last fall the Grape crop ripened, there was no market for the vintage. Grapes were sokl at from fifty to fifty -five cents the hundred pounds, a price which barely covers the actual outlay. It is not to be expected that people will continue to suffer this loss when they can appro- priate their lands to the cultivation of a fruit which is enriching all who have a few acres of bearing trees. Hence the movement to which we allude. It will take time for the trees to grow, but it is better that the lands should yield noth- ing for a few years than they should be an actual source of loss, and in this re- spect we can not but view the action of the vinemen as sound." — Sacramento liecord. « M. Beet states that compressed oxy- gen is not only destructive to animal life, but that it also hinders the germi- nation of seeds, the putrefaction of frag- ments of muscle, the change of starch into sugar by saliva, and the develop- ment of mycoderma aceii. 15f THE CATirN1A HOETKTXTTRIST. CXEETS JOGST- Hov of: ^ ''■—: llteeax ^^ -^lart of thif descadjnacm frait \»e 'W'unijf a bj ed on be tabes ^.- ;,..,»...;„..„_ .. ..„}>ait nmttjuj in- t^i £rs: ■■--■' -r-' strucaon. aiid to share ibe pure iileas- The we tate s xdew cff ibe fioral dispiaT %£ ed* The ^rrosesqne lorme off some ex- cdje our t- - " * : - ";aT of otV;*>r> lul ; ak our esreem. and ^^. -...^-^: ^_i.. j.'wIt- comixiaiid our care. Wiret ' > of Ce- ratur prai'L „.. .... — .,.„ „aeT at- tract tLe adimi-aticai of everrljodj: it i:: uiider .i- rsT-fe, and tbenr dose iie^er to open again «s 6<.».vT a*. :". ' ' van ^ixiict v^ is r n be njoved to tne ^4..7^..i. ..r -X. ^iic ^..amt best adapted for as; £T.>vth- or viien at rest during ^win- : ' :,:id renioved toiiie dra-wdnsr-room. "Wiien I. . _ . . en JK- sseuife, or produce Bew bran^iee froni ont season. trellif a£ ^epiiar a£ "sne -contoreed iiabit and brittienesf- ctf lire stean? vill per- HUDJ? i&t&a :.. ; . .... .,.:..... read tiie saD in ibe pot,, and tbej will ken intc< small iuncfi^, t;c> winch shotuld -eenre pot becomes £Iied with xoote. Whet tL. ■ " : ; " . se:-~ . hpeid, bm it as irr no means nef-essarr \o teep it so drr as to r ■ -- -- stems to <;lirii^el. I during Louse. ^^„ ..-..L-. ., ^.. ^u. . o^. .. -.L.- fluenoe of the sun. tbe tor* of the treHie I did and well-matured stems acquii^- & pr.: " - tei.-. . . ■ - eirbads deveiop tbemaelvea. About the ._ ■'" " " r :i! be ems, irom winct. wnat at iirst ap- pear to hi r,.... ..i4.-is of coarse vlite iiair "l^iir ii, whifib is xnfOfified lie rsdi- mt - lit of the; _...._ . . ;........ . ming xrradnallr more ienrthened uDtil they •r^ri.'id vrrms treatment; a moTE: EberaJ frupjilr of wa_ : I^Jjli- :oot- etai£ .)! the flower wiii nov |:rrow n^d- 3t : , ^- - ^ r. of iram w^ will ap- . bristled -- ^ ..^ ..-...- ..^ir middle to the latt^" end of June the £rst Aow- TWIT Tin Li.. 7< •: ;?fVTK r|fi; i>e t rifAfltfcS! P^iEssirrt*- ^wtt iSttSfC hKT rmc -1. itasntA.. lijfc. nrtn^fteatftrirm- *Til t --}»r:^ ir. Tie lar- • m i3* prapairatio of ,ai3tbn&, Ch.-oinna, .-wtHmjites M»i Wisieria ««i- :., Mia AtMBTW afftietas - ..-M ,- 1.1'x- Ar.rola, ■ V ,■■ lA •://- I G2. (.niiew » e preferred, the fact that it bears ipalatable edible finit, good for domesb use, or to divert the birds from the Cbrries or more choice fruits, is mentioed, and also the probable val- ue in te future of the foliage for silk raisiu}.' The writer might have men- tioned lat the foliage will also furnish a rich idder which is much relished by all doiestic stock; and were all our roadsios shaded by weU-grown Mulber- ry-tree, they could largely help out the 8uppli< for stock in times of scarcity. EEilAKKS OX FRUIT CULTURE, AND REPORT ON THE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE MARKET. BY E. J. HOOPEK. Although Nature has beneficently be- stowed upon man, just as they are, ma- ny minor wild fruits, such as Huckle- berries and Cranben-ies, Persimmons and Papa\i'S, etc., yet in. many cases — such as the Crab Apple, Sloe, Pear, etc. — man may be said in many respects to have made the choicest fruits from these originals, and, always helped by Nature, has achieved wonderful tri- umphs of horticultural skill. Other fruits — such as Currants, Gooseberries, Raspberries, Blackberries, Chestnuts, and especially Strawberries — have been received by man with their complete original flavor, and only required him to improve their size and quantity, or prolong their time of bearing. As the matter now stands, we owe most of our best fruits to what is called the Old World; but it is rather an in- teresting subject upon which to specu- late, as to what will in the future arise from the improvement of some of the native fruits of this our New World, or America. There are our Cliicom, the Peach Plum, and our wild red and yel- low Prunus Ai)m-ica)in, which have al- ready shown great capacity for improve- ment. It would probably be hardly worth our while to pay any attention to improving our "Wild Cherry, as any seedling from it would not be likely to be as large as the sorts of Cherry we now possess, although their flavor might be good. Wh}' should we not have manifold and most luscious varieties of Persimmon and Papaw? The foimer might become, by cultivation, engraft- ing, or budding, equal to the Kak-i we have lately acquired from the far East. With regard to wild Strawberries, Cur- 164 THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. rants, and Gooseberries, by attention to their culture we might be able to ac- complish something, too, as we possess several promising species, diflfering from the European types, in different parts of the States and Territories. As to Black- berries and Raspberries, particularly the first, we have already achieved a good deal, and we are likely by careful at- tention to create an earlier development, as well as a diversification, in these our native species. Indeed, many of our very finest kinds of both have already gprung from our American tyjoes, Fra- garia Virginiana with its varieties (which, as well as the Old World F. vesca, oc- curs all across the continent), and F. Chilensis, which is found all along the Pacific slope to Oregon, and j)robably to Washington Territory'. How many other fruits of value there are in this country yet undiscovered we can not tell; but it is to be hoped, if only for mere curiosity', we shall at some future time know of them. As we in California, owing to our fa- vorable climate, can successfully culti- vate all the foreign Grapes, as well as nearly all the indigenous kinds of this continent, our wild varieties are not of so much importance to us as to the Eastern States; but if we needed them, they have such a start with these al- ready in the East, and seedlings, wheth- er from crosses or otherwise, can be so easily produced and selected, and re- produced in so short a time, that they have nearly arrived at a state of perfec- tion, and we could if we wished avail ourselves of these. Attention may be paid to the low Blackberry or Dewberry, and to the Sand Blackberry of the South, in order to lay the foundation of a greater diver- sity of excellent sorts. Cranberries and Huckleberries will hardly admit of much improvement, unless it be increase of size, or greater change with respect either to acidity or sweetness. The A.simina (or Western Papaw) and the Persimmon are the chief of the wild friuts which have evidently many capa- bilities, that may in all probability be developed in the future. Several bet- ter varieties from spontaneous seedlings, of both Persimmons and Papaws, have been found, and can therefore be se- lected from. "The Custard Apple of the West Indies gives some idea," says a late writer on Pomology, "of what might be made of our PajDaw, when ameliorated by cultivation and close se- lection from several generations." Our climate and soil, and general freedom from noxious insects and the "black-knot," on this slope, are much in favor of our American Plums im- proving upon their wild forms, if they were systematically attended to. In nuts, too, there is a considerable field for improvement; but we rather look, at present, for the older States to take the initiatory steps in these mat- ters, than a new and most productive State like California, successful in so many varieties of pomological and oth- er productions. This success and favor from Nature are apt to lead to content- ment and supineness, and we are in- clined to be very well satisfied with the advantages we so fortunately possess, instead of branching out toward further labor and speculation in the fruit way.^ The first Strawberries of the season (two pounds) appeared in the market on the 13th of April. They were raised by R. Syer, of San Jose, and shipped by him to Levy & Co., 310 Washington Street, and sold at $2 per pound. This is nearly a month later than usual, the first in 1873 having arrived on the 13th of March; but this fruit had not been received in any considerable quantity THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. Ifi5 up to tbe hist of April, the present sea- son, and will not be in abundance until the first week in May. On the 10th of April other fruits had undergone no change since the previous week. The California Orange crop showed but few signs of exhaustion up to the last of April. Tahiti Oranges were then plen- tiful at 25c. to 50c. per dozen. Vegetables were rapidly improving at the end of April. Green Peas and As- paragus were abundant then, at greatly reduced prices. The former were quo- ted at Gc, and the latter at 5c. to 8c., per lb. New Potatoes were received in considerable quantities, much improved in size and quality j but prices contin- ued firm at 5c. to 8c. per lb. Rhubarb was down to Gc.@8c. per lb. Other vegetables were at the prices of the previous week. Another cargo of Tahiti Oranges ar- rived on the 10th of April, and, though prices were slightly reduced, they did not interfere to any great extent with the sale of the California product. Ba- nanas sold at 50c., and Mangoes at $1, per doz.; Smyrna Figs, 35c. per lb.; Apples, by the bos, delivered, $2@$2|; Italian Chestnuts, 50c. per lb. As late as the 20th of April, Marrow- fat Squashes were ver}' scarce, and pri- ces high. Tomatoes from Mexico sold at 25c., New Potatoes 5c. to Gc, per lb.; Spinach Gc, Lettuce 15c. to 20c., per doz.; Salsify, Gc. to 8c. j^er bunch; Potatoes, by the sack, delivered, $2 to $2J per 100 lbs. A few pounds of Strawberries were re- ceived daily along the middle of April, but brought fancy prices. The crop is very late, and the demand unusually large, the prices up to the 20th of April being double those usually obtained for the first lots received. The delay in the Strawberry crop has been very fa- vorable for the sale of Oranges. The receipts from Los Angeles were liberal, and the demand active, notwithstanding the abundance of Tahitian fruit. Con- signments of Eastern Cranberries ar- rived by rail during Aj^ril, and met with fair inquiry. The Australian steamer brought a shipment of Sydney Lemons and a few boxes of Oranges. The mar- ket is still well supplied, and the vent- ure did not i^rove very remunerative. About 400 pounds of Strawberries were received on the 21st of April, and sold from first hands at 35c. to 60c. per lb. About the 22d of April the weather set in warm, the berries ripened rapidly, and by the 25th liberal supplies of this delicious fruit began to come in. During the last week of Aj^ril the market was thoroughly glutted w-ith Asparagus, and although prices were reduced to low figures, the supply was too large for the demand, and consider- able quantities had to be dumped. The glut in Asparagus was due in part to the decreased consumption caused by the abundance of Green Peas. Rhu- barb was plentiful, but, owing to the light supply of fruit, was in good de- mand. Marrowfat Squash was very scarce at that time, and prices further advanced. On the 22d of April about fifteen chests of Strawberries were received, but the demand was very active, and prices were still high. The crop will, no doubt, be immense, and of good quality owing to the late favorable spring weather. The last of April the supply was plentiful enough to bring prices down to reasonable figures. Re- ceipts of Los Angeles Oranges kept well up, about 600 boxes having arriv- ed by steamer and many more expect- ed. Asparagus was, towards the last of April, only one cfent per j)ound. Following are the quotations: Ap_ pies, choice, $1 50 to $2 50 per box; 16G THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTXJPJST. common, 75c. to §L 25 per box. Or- anges, Tahiti, $18 to $20 per M. ; Los Angeles, $15 to $45 per M. Lemons, Sicily, ;$10 to $12 per box; Malaga, $10 to $12 per box; Los Angeles, $15 to $30 per M. Limes, $10 to $12 per M. Ba- nanas, $2 to $3 per bunch. Pine Ap- ples, $5 to $8 per doz. Cocoanuts, $7 per 100. Dried Fruit— Apples, Gc. to7o. per lb.; Peaches, 9c. to 10c. ; Pitted Plums, 16c. to 18c.; Figs, Gc. to 8c. jier lb. ; Strawberries, 20c, to 25c. per lb. Oregon Apples are in good supply. Oranges are plentiful, and of good quality generally. During the fii-st part of this month (May), Strawberries arrived in great quantities, the crop being very large and good in quality. Berries, Currants, etc., will be very plentiful ere long, the past rainy season having been greatly in their favor, and the lateness of the spring also being rather an advantage to all fruits than otherwise. The recei])ts of Strawberries during the first part of May increased from 300 to 400 chests per day, but the demand still exceeded the sui)ply. We expect that, in the height of the season, the shipnipnts will reach 1,000 chests per day. The first Gooseberries of the sea- son were received about the 1st of May from the Sacramento River, and were retailed at 25c. per lb. Cherries began to appear in small quantities the first week in ^lay. The last steamer from the southern coast brought over 200,000 Los Angela Oranges — an unuKually heavy shiinnent for this time of the year. The demand for this fruit, althou^rh it is very fine, has somewhat fallen off since the advent of Strawberries, and p^^^^^ ^^^ ^ ^^^^^ lower. In other fruits. no change. CovrfSponrtnu^. CALYCANTHrS. Editor California Horticulturist: A correspondent — Keystone—: the April number of this magazine, : his communication on the " Vigorous Con- dition of Stockton Plants," mak in- quiry about "a shrub which was^ery common in the gardens of the ir rior of Pennsylvania, and in all the '^ Idle States, etc." This is undoubtedb /hat is popularly called "The Sweet-sc ited Shrub," or Calycanthus, ( All^pict ree, Linn., natural order, Cahjcanthi ), a small North American shrub, re ark- able, chiefly, for the agi-eeable arc atic fragrance of its blossoms. The: are five species; all are deciduous, anuave chocolate-colored flowers, which, t ugh destitute of petals, are not the le in- teresting, the loss being compeiited in the large colored calyx. The mts are rather tardy of propagation, lich is best effected by means of layers I have noticed in the small ravi sof Sonoma Valley, a wild species cthis shrub. This was in bloom wh§u saw it, though the flowers were smalh and not so delightfully odorous as our ilti- vated sort. E. J. Hooi :. San Francisco, Ajnil 21. }S employed for ap-\ hpr articles to boro- \ Tubes maiof Ashes invigorate all tinclg ^f trees. kected from moisture this paper are about one-fifth the w ?ht ^. of iron, and may be used^for the 2^:' yveyance of water. Sii-KS are by some manufaclers treated with a solution of aceta of lead to increase their weight; poise )"S properties are thus at times impart to the tissue in question. — I 103 i t- ^ iaipos:« i •' |jiitJtl:i.i^ji i (red ^- THE CALIFORNIA HORTICULTURIST. 1G7 6 a ami ©kattiugsi. Flowehs m THE Sick. — In an upper room in a oor tenement-house lay a sick child, asted with fever and the prostration i^hich followed. It had seemed imjssible to arouse him, or excite the slditest interest in anything. The young idy who had carried her flower-baskt to the room selected a bunch of fining golden buttercups, and held t'^m up before the child. The dull Ifguid eye brightened, the tiny emacia d hand opened to receive them; too f«ble for a spoken word, the smile that Jtted acro.ss the wee white face was eh^ueuce enough. The fin- gers closed '^htly over the simple flow- ers that we' like yellow sunshine to the little suJrer. "When a second vis- it, with fr