K'-'* * * - . lc * * V 4’ c § . ?•; ; ■ i!r r 1’ / «■{ tl r r - 'r.: fi ■ THE A PICTORIAL MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF i CONDUCTED BY THOMAS MOOEE, F.L.S., F.E.H.S., &o., CURATOR OF THE CHELSEA BOTANIC GARDEN ; FLORAL DIRECTOR OF THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY CO-EDITOR OF “THE GARDENERS’ CHRONICLE” AND OF THE “TREASURY OF BOTANY;” AUTHOR OF “ THE FERNS OF GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND NATURE-PRINTED,” “INDEX FILICU2J,” “THE HANDBOOK OF BRITISH FERNS,” ETC, LONDON: PUBLISHED AT THE “JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE ” OFFICE, 171 FLEET STREET. - MDCCCLXXV, * . Grsv Herbarium Harvard Urv vm sily uGwt. ^ ix. - Hi i < L 1ST O F C 0 L 0 U R E D FIGURES, « Apple, French Paradise . . . i » Lady Henniker* . . . Lane’s Prince Albert * 59 • Begonia Emperor A.. V 1\ t at\Ht ** 59 i/ Model * Campanula Smitiiii Cherry, Early Lyons •55 Ohio Beauty ' ... 1/ \/ * Cydonia Maulei ' ... * Echeveria Peagockii * Genista yirgata ... » Lilium canadense rubro-flayum^ 55 55 55 55 CANADENSE RUBRUi r IIumboldtii PARDALINUM V PARDALINUM CALIFORNICUM f Nectarine, Welbeck Seedling^ ... * Peach, Condor ^ . 55 Dr. Hogg ... * Pear, Louise Bonne d’Avranches Panaciiee , „ Lucy Grieve^ * „ Souvenir du Congres^ » Pelargonium (Show) Constance.1.. 55 55 Crown Prince Pentbtemon iiumilis /- Plum, Prince of Wales ... „ Sultan Pommies de Paradis v is • • • ' « « # Pyrus Maulei ie Rose (H.P.) St. George ... . „ (Tea) Catherine Mermet*.,. Facing page 07 ... ... G I . 233 ... ... 2 () a . 100 ... ... 200 ... ... 103 1 Q‘3 • •• ••• A i/ U ... ... 40 121 t « } «•» A«* A . 1G0 ... ... lo/ ... ... lo/ . 217 . 217 . 217 1 R • t * ••• A U ... ... 133 • t I • * 9 1 8l) . 281 . . « » . . 8o o n O/ 25 25 241 253 145 07 40 1 73 list of woodcuts. A calyphaWilkesinna (tricolor) marginata 283 Melon, Suttons’ New Pear-shaped • • • 44 Adiantum speciosum 272 Nepenthes intermedia ... • • • 257 Althsea frutex . 21 Pea, Supplanter . • • • .45 Artocarpus Cannoni 211 Pear, Groom’s Princess Royal, Matthews’ Eliza alias «»• 77 Blumenbachia coronata ... 136 Pelargonium Rienzi Celosia cristata ... 09 117 124 Peronospora infestans : mycelium, and Chamserops exeelsa fcemina perfect plant ... t • • 172 Chamserops excelsa mascula 124 Peronospora infestans : oogonia and Chamserops Griffithii 103 antheridia 0 0 0 174 Codiaeum (Croton) ovalifolium . 8 Peronospora infestans : the resting- spore 175 Cucumber-root, diseased 29 Quercus acuta albo-nervis 0 0 0 90 Cypripedium japonicum... 221 Quercus angustifolia 0 0 0 91 Dieffenbachia brasiliensis 273 Quercus bambusifolia ... 0 0 0 201 Dracaena Baptistii \ 52 Quercus Burgerii 0 0 0% 201 \ Dracaena Hendersoni 53 Quercus cuspidata angustifolia... 0 0 0 91 Fuchsia Mrs. H. Cannell 129 Quercus cuspidata latifolia 0 • 0 91 Fuchsia Swanley Gem ... 129 Quercus gilva 0 0 0 90 Fungus of the Potato-disease 172, 174 175 Quercus glauca ... . 0 0 0 90 Grape, Raisin de Calibre, from Eskdale 245 Quercus salicifolia 0 0 0 200 Grape, White Nice, from Arkleton 245 Quercus sclerophylla 0 0 0 201 Grapes, Small Cluster of, after Thinning 149 Quercus setifera ... 0 0 0 200 Grapes, Small Cluster of, before Thinning 148 Sweet William, auricula-eyed ... 0 0 0 41 Helianthus globosus fistulosus ... 69 Tillandsia musaica 0 0 0 16 Hellebore, Hybrid . 161 Vine, stopping young shoot of ... 0 0 0 112 Hibiscus syriacus . 21 Vine, stopping lateral shoot of ... 0 0 0 113 Lilium canadense . 157 Vriesia musaica 0 0 0 16 J. L . Macf&rlane , del . .'Kromo.G. Severey ns Brussels i Rose 5 amt THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. H.P. EOSE ST. GEOEGE. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. HERE is room yet for a good dark Rose of the globular form, so many of the varieties of this colour, Baron de Bonstetten, Dr. Jamin, Jean Cherpin, Alfred de Rougemont, and Monsieur Boncenne, to wit, being of the flat or expanded form. We have here in the subject of our plate a veritable dark globular Rose, of robust habit and splendid foliage, of hardy constitution and flowering freely. It is the offspring of Black Prince, a Rose not yet so widely known or so generally cultivated as it deserves to be, and approaches more nearly to that variety than to any other with which we are acquainted. It was introduced by Mr. William Paul, of the Royal Nurseries, Waltham Cross, in whose hands, we believe, the greater part of the stock still remains, and will be found to be a worthy addition to the long list of varieties which have been derived from this source. Of the beauty of the Rose itself our figure bears ample evidence. — W. P. CHEEEY-F OEG1 NG. «HIS department of fruit-culture is often looked upon as being surrounded by difficulties. I admit that during the early part of the year consider- fable skill and attention are required, but the danger of failure is reduced to a minimum by a proper preparation of the plants, and a knowledge of their habits. How often do we meet with persons who seem ignorant of these essentials, and who make use of places from which the influences of light and solar heat are all but excluded, and who nevertheless feel surprised that the attempt should have proved abortive ! For the successful growth of this class of fruit, it is imperative that a house should be devoted to it. For want of a proper Cherry-house I have made use of a late vinery, the Vines being for the time removed to the open air ; and although there are defects in construction, we have managed year by year to produce excellent crops. Still, properly constructed, a house should specially be set apart for them, since in numerous ways it would be more advantageous than a mere make-shift. Instances frequently occur where the trees are planted out per¬ manently, a plan which, so far as I am aware, does not possess a single recom¬ mendation ; for not only are the trees more difficult to manage, but less productive than when grown in pots, and there is besides the risk of occasional blanks by death, which leaves unprofitable vacancies for several years. Not so with pot- culture, as we can always have a few extra plants on hand. For the most part, I have been in the habit of preparing my own trees, simply because I have had 3rd SERIES, — VIII. B 2 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ January, the opportunity and privilege to do so, but when the demand for fruit is urgdnt? application should be made to those who make such things a speciality. There are different varieties of the Cherry suitable for forcing, but among them all I prefer the May Duke and Black Tartarian. Whether we purchase established or maiden trees, the stock is a most important matter, for unless it is vigorous and free from disease, the duration of life in the tree will be short and struggling. The best are raised from the seeds or stones of our wild varieties, as they possess an inherent vigour beyond that of our cultivated kinds. The Cerasus Mahaleb , or what is called the perfumed Cherry, has been strongly re¬ commended as a stock, owing to its dwarfing property, but this is a quality quite unnecessary in the case of pot-culture, where the roots are constantly con¬ fined. Soil exercises a greater influence over plants, either for good or evil, than we are at all times willing to admit. So far as the mere production of wood is concerned, the Cherry-tree is by no means fastidious ; but as a fruit- bearing tree, the soil should possess a considerable amount of lime, to assist in the formation of the Cherry-stone. It is by no means uncommon to observe, in the course of a week or so after the shedding of the flowers, a large portion of the newly-formed fruit shrivel and drop. Some, indeed, may adhere till the stoning period, when they, too, fall off, leaving not more than a third or fourth part of a crop. There may be other operating causes, but I feel persuaded that a deficiency of calcareous matter is the major evil ; and further, with a calcareous soil there is less production of gum. Whatever the system of forcing, and however exactly the modus operand i may be carried out, failure is certain, unless the fruit-buds are fully matured. I have in some instances seen the trees turned out-of-doors, fully exposed to whatever weather may occur, crippling, if not destroying, the foliage before it has performed its allotted work. We cannot much depend on a crop from wood of the preceding year, although it may be thickly set with fruit-buds, unless it be at the bottom of the shoot. Natural spurs two years old set fruit more freely, and usually of a larger size. Little or no pruning will be required beyond removing worn-out spurs, and providing for a new supply, which is readily obtained by judiciously pinching and thinning the young growths. In cases where fruit is required early, fire-heat may be applied towards the beginning or middle of February, but let the progress of forcing be slow, and under no condition allow any undue excitement, or the flowers will be produced without substance, and the fructifying organs will be deformed, and incapable of performing their office. At this stage it is rather uncertain what to advise as to the proper temperature, as it may happen that the warmth of the external air is as high as that degree I should recommend to start with. All that can be said on this point is, to keep the heat of the house slightly in advance. As a general rule, a temperature of 42° will be found sufficient, and in the course of two weeks it may be advanced to 45°, allowing an advance of 10° by sun-heat, but confined to that limit by ventilation till the fruit is fully set. Even before, but 1875. ] PLEROMA MACRANTHUM AND ITS ALLIES. 3 more particularly when the blossoms begin to expand, we sedulously prevent the ^admission of cold wind by placing very thin canvas over the ventilators. Should there happen to be a continuation of bright sunshine, shade the roof of the house with the same material for a few hours daily, which will prevent the flowers from dropping prematurely. I have, when required, used the same precaution with our Cherries on the open walls, as strong sunshine very frequently proves fatal to the crop. I have the blossoms fertilised daily with a camel-hair brush, which removes any doubt about a failure, as there are few, if any, bees to rove about through the different recesses of the flower. In the course of a little time, if fecundation has taken place, the organs begin to wither or decay, first the stamens, and then the petals. When the setting period has passed, the maximum heat should be advanced to 52°, and the minimum to 48°, and it may so remain till the crop has stoned— always an anxious and a somewhat dangerous time. The tissue now ceases to increase, and takes a palo yellow colour, owing to the growth of the stone, and should there have been previous mismanagement, the fruit will keep dropping off till three-parts have fallen. There is now little danger of damage from an increase of heat. The night-temperature may range from 56 J to 60°, and that of the day to 70° by sun-heat. The use of the syringe should be resumed, since that promotes greatly the growth of the fruit and the health of the foliage. Tepid weak manure-water will be very advantageous, particularly where the crop is heavy, and the pots full of roots. Should the black or green aphis make their appearance, the house should at once be fumigated, or they will soon make sad havoc among the foliage. Pooley’s tobacco-powder is an excellent remedy, applied by his puff-distributor when the trees are moist. There is the Cherry-caterpillar, too, which is very troublesome at times, and which can only be destroyed by hand-picking, as it rolls itself securely in the leaves. — Alexander Cramb, Tortworth. PLEROMA MACRANTHUM AND ITS ALLIES. N the leading garden journal there appeared, some two years ago, a notice or two of the above-named plant [under the name it has usually borne in gardens, Lasiandra macrantha , but which, according to M. Triana, Sp should give place to that of Pleromci semideccindruvi]. I then ordered one, and got what we had already plenty of, namely, Pleromci Benthamianum [which is quite a different thing]. Considering that there must have been some mistake, I ordered a plant from another quarter, and this was dwarf, and altogether a different plant. The name will doubtless, in due time, become fixed to the true plant. Of late the Chrysanthemum has been gaining ground, and very deservedly so, for charming the autumn with exhibition and decorative displays ; but it seems to me that, with our extended knowledge and rich collections, we by no means make a good use of them. Many finely-coloured plants bloom naturally in the autumn that would enrich the display of the Chrysanthemum by affording b 2 4 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [JANUARY, well-marked contrasts. And not the least among these is the Lasiandra , or Pleroma Benthamiamm , which will grow as much as 8 ft. high in two or three seasons by planting it out and lifting, as many persons grow their Chrysanthe¬ mums. If kept a little close after being lifted, they soon recover, and the rich colour brings out the rather dull hues of many of the Chrysanthemums. There must be many good things for this purpose in this family alone. The dwarf kind referred to above, that is, the true P. macranthum , is more delicate, but still easy to grow, and I know of no colour to match it ; even Pleroma elegans is not to be compared to it in the soft richness of its colouring, in which respeot, indeed, it is altogether unrivalled. — J. Fleming, Cliveden. VINE SPOET. RATHER singular circumstance has occurred in one of the Vineries here this season, which I am quite unable to account for. Some twenty years since a house was planted with Wests Black St. Peter’s Vines, and some ten years since Lady Downe’s Seedling and Black Alicante were inarched on to them. On one Vine three sorts were grafted, viz., Black Alicante , Trebbiano , and Golden Champion. All three rods bore their respective kinds of fruit cor¬ rectly enough ; but the latter sort, not being well adapted for hanging, and all the others in the house being late sorts, the rod of Golden Champion was cut clean out last January or early in February, when the Vines were pruned. In fact, it was cut off some inches below the place where the union of the stock and scion had taken place. Strange to say, however, the Trebbiano rod has this season produced on one spur, and that about the middle of the rod, or five or six feet from where it is grafted on the West’s St. Peter’s stock, a bunch of grapes of the true Golden Hamburg , all the other spurs upon the rod bearing the Trebbiano. Those who have seen it have been very much interested in the matter. Can any one explain this freak of nature ? — P. Grieve, Culford , Bury Si. Edmund’s. _ THE CULTUEE OF THE TOMATO. S the growing and liking for this wholesome fruit or vegetable is evidently increasing amongst all classes, perhaps a few observations on its culture and the best kinds for general growth, may be of some interest to the readers of the Florist. Having the advantages of a glass-covered wall, I have this year had a collection of all the kinds of Tomatos I could procure grown in it. I have likewise grown all the same sorts in the open air on the bottom of south walls, as well as some in pots, in heat, for early ripening. The following is a list of the varieties : — General Grant. Earley’s Defiance. Orangefield. The New Trophy is an exceedingly large -fruiting sort, some of them here measuring loin, in circumference ; but it is a late kind, and will only succeed New Trophy. Hathaway’s Excelsior. Large Red Italian. Now Early Dwarf Red. Powell’s Early Red. Koye’s Early Prolific. 1875. ] CALANTHES AS DECORATIVE PLANTS. 5 out-of-doors in very warm summers. Hathaway’s Excelsior has a beautiful round fruit, full of juice, and is likewise very prolific with me on the open walls, as well as in-doors. The Large Red Italian is an excellent tall variety, and does well on the open walls. General Grant has a round fruit, smaller than that of Excelsior ; it grows in large clusters, and is very juicy, and excellent for making sauce with. Earley’s Defiance and Orangefield are excellent dwarf kinds for pot- culture ; they are likewise the earliest fruiting sorts out-of-doors. The New Early Dwarf Red, Powell’s Early, and Keye’s Early Prolific, are all of nearly the same type, and excellent for growing in pots, or for the bottoms of south walls. Both Earley’s Defiance and the Orangefield, if grown early and well hardened-off for planting out in May, will produce plenty of fruit on a south or warm border, if well staked and pinched-in. It is not necessary to manure the growing plants too highly, as it only makes them grow too much to foliage, and if planted on little mounds in the rows, it will check their luxuriance in wet summers. In favourable summers like the past the Tomato de Laye , an upright-growing variety, will ripen its large red fruit ; but I never could do much with it in the climate of this Midland district. — William Tillery, Welbeck. %* We learn that Mr. Tillery also thinks very highly of Messrs. Carter’s new and very distinct Green Gage Tomato ; indeed, he attests that for juiciness and flavour it is superior to any of the above. Messrs. Carter, by whom it was raised from Hathaway’s Excelsior, state that it is very prolific, very early, and ripens well in our English climate. This variety received during the past autumn from the Fruit Committee a First-class Certificate ct for its singularly delicious flavour and distinct character.” The fruit is of medium size, round, perfectly smooth, and of a lemon-yellow colour tinged with rose. The flavour is distinct and very good. If the plant is amenable to pot-culture it will have its decorative value, in addition to its desirableness for general cultivation. CALANTHES AS DECORATIVE PLANTS. QjpHE winter-flowering species of Calanthe are exceedingly useful where a ASS' large quantity of cut flowers is required for decorative purposes during the f months of November and December, and they ought to be grown wherever there is a collection of stove plants. The cultivation is of the simplest description. I grow three bulbs in a 6-in. pot, as being the most convenient size, because as the Calanthes when in flower are devoid of foliage, these pots can be worked in amongst ferns or other foliage-plants. If large masses of flower are required, it is best to pot them in pans. Twenty-four bulbs may be potted in a 12-in. pan. If a pot is used, the best for this purpose is one fitted with an in¬ genious contrivance invented by Mr. Dominy, of Messrs. Veitch’s Nursery, Chelsea, and which is made to fit into any ordinary pot by Mr. Mathews, of Weston-super- Mare. This consists of a concave piece of pottery, perforated with small holes, which, when placed in the pot, has the convex side uppermost, so that the bottom of the pot, usually filled with crocks, is merely empty space, 6 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGHST. [January, An excellent potting material for Calanthes is turfy loam, with a little rotted manure, and sufficient sand to keep the compost open. If potsherds are used for drainage, they must be quite clean, and a little fibre, free from the finer particles, or some sphagnum moss, must be placed oyer them, to prevent the compost from mixing with the drainage. Perfect drainage is quite essential to the well-being of the plants, as they require to be freely watered during the growing season, and if the superfluous water does not escape readily, the plants will not give satisfac¬ tion. But little water is required during the flowering period ; and when the flower-spikes are cut, not any until the young growths show signs of starting from the base, early in February, or later according to the time of flowering. This is also the time to repot, the old and exhausted earth being shaken from the bulbs before doing so. These remarks apply to the deciduous species represented by CcilantJie Veitchii , and the different varieties of Calanthe vestita. Of the first named there are many varieties, the colours ranging from very pale rose to reddish-crimson, the darker shades being most esteemed, and commercially speaking, of the greatest value. A strong plant of the best variety will throw spikes from 3 ft. to 6 ft. long, and is truly a noble object. Calanthe verciirifolia should be grown more frequently than it is. The flowers are of the very purest white, and abundantly produced on a strong erect spike, and like those of the rest of the species, they remain long in beauty ; although it usually expands its flowers in the dog-days, they will continue unchanged for two months. I find this species succeeds best if some very fibry peat is mixed with the compost. Calanthe Masuca is another very distinct summer-flowering species, and like C. veratrifolia , is evergreen. The flowers are freely produced, and the spike is upright, as in the other. The sepals and petals are of a lilac-purple colour, the lip deep purple. The flowers of this plant are easily damaged by damp. I have removed the plants from the stove to a cooler house when they have been in flower, but they did not last longer in beauty on that account. — J. Douglas, Loxford Hall , Ilford. EARLY PEAS. other among all the vegetables we possess commands or deserves so much VV of the attention of the cultivator as Early Peas. When employed under our lamented friend, the late Mr. G. McEwen, at Arundel, I well remember him paying a Christmas visit to Scotland. On meeting him at the station on his return, after asking how all was going on, he turned half round, and with such a look as I never shall forget, said : — “ A mon, speak of Peas ! they fairly beat us in Scotland, having fine rows fully two inches high, green and stubby, while ours are lying in the press.” I asked if the frost did not hurt them ? u Not a bit ! Now, ever since that time I have sown early Peas in November, from the 9th to the 15th, and for six successive years they haye done me good m - 1875. ] BECK'S GEM OR TOM THUMB PEA. — CROTON OVALIFOLIUM. 7 service here, beating by from four to six days both those sown in turf and in pots, &c. Now I must give you Mr. McEwen’s recipe. Three things he held to be absolutely necessary to ensure success : — First, red-lead the peas, to make them distasteful to the mice. Secondly, watch them daily, and as soon as they begin to crack the ground, put on the rows one inch of coal-ashes, to keep away the slugs. Lastly, when they appear above the ashes, string a piece of worsted 4 in. above the ground to ward off birds. The general cultivation consists in keeping the soil open, and in rodding them as soon as possible, with small, twiggy sticks, which shelter them from those greatest of all enemies to early Peas — the surface winds. Among the many varieties I have tried, none pleases me so much as the following six in their respective seasons : — First Early White, Ringleader ; first Green, William I. ; second Early, Fillbasket and Carter’s G. F. Wilson. Of later sorts, Omega is both hardy and prolific, and also of first-class flavour, but lacks colour ; while no other Pea I know, has the colour of Supreme in October, and when young it is not to be found fault' with as to flavour. — R. Gilbert, Burghley Gardens. BECK'S GEM OR TOM THUMB PEA. SHIS is a very excellent Pea, and well deserves a place in every garden. The plant is of a very dwarf stout habit of growth, branches well, and is f wonderfully prolific. For places where sticks are not easily obtained, it is invaluable, as it can be grown without any. I had it very fine last season ; sown on the same day as Sutton’s Ringleader and Sangster’s No. 1, in adjoining rows, it was but a few days later than Sangster’s No. 1 in coming into use. The situation being rather an exposed one, I had a few short sticks put to them to prevent them being blown about ; they did remarkably well, and the crop was a remarkable one, and much admired. The rows were about 2 ft. apart, and the plants, which were about from 20 in. to 24 in. in height, were covered from the ground to the top with well-filled pods of very fine Peas. Ten or twelve acres of such a crop would, at that season, realise something considerable in Leeds and Manchester markets. Its dwarf stiff habit of growth makes it well adapted for growing largely in market gardens, as it requires no sticks ; it is also a very use¬ ful Pea for private gardens, as it can be grown on borders, and in sheltered places, where it would be inconvenient to grow the taller varieties. As the season for sowing early Peas has now arrived, I would recommend those who have not done so before to give Beck’s Pea a trial, feeling certain that it will give satisfaction. — M. Saul, Stourton. CROTON OVALIFOLIUM. VERY distinct form of the Croton or Codiceum variegatum , which was ob¬ tained from the South Sea Islands by the late Mr. J. G. Veitch, and has been exhibited and sent out during the past season by Messrs. Veitch and Sons, of Chelsea. It is peculiar amongst Crotons for its stiff erect broadish Layes, which are oblong-oval in outline, with the end bluntly-rounded, It is thus 8 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ January, quite dissimilar from any of the many forms now grown, and amongst which we can recommend 0. Weismanni as one of the very best for general decoratiye work. Croton ovalifolium In the present variety the variegation is also well marked. There is a broadish central golden band, from which the main veins of the same colour run out, and these are united near the edge by an open net- work of smaller veins also golden. 1875. ] GARDEN WORK FOR JANUARY. 9 This colouring produces a very symmetrical form of variegation. It received a First-class Certificate at the Royal Botanic Society’s show in April last. — T. Moore, GARDEN WORK FOR JANUARY. FLOWERS. /r===?HE fine open weather which we have had during the Autumn months (Lf)^ has been unusually favourable to the re-establishment of the various plants with which the beds are planted, and which have, till the advent of severe frosts, exhibited a freshness seldom seen at this season. The Laurus- tinus, that prettiest of winter-flowering shrubs, is blooming most profusely, as is also that highly-cherished plant, the Christmas Rose, which, by-the-by, is now eclipsed by a strong-growing variety, Helleboras niger mciximus , which is by far the finest form that I have seen. To preserve anything like a satisfactory aspect in the garden at this season, unremitted perseverance with the broom and roller is requisite, as the light falling leaves are whisked to and fro by every gust of wind. Complete the planting of Roses with as little delay as possible ; securely stake standards, and mulch over the roots with short manure ; examine the security of the labels, &c. Hardy Trees and Shrubs should now be pruned, allowing specimen plants ample room to develop their individual characteristics. The operator should also studiously grapple with the capacity of the position and its surroundings, having in view landscape effect. Much improvement is often effected with but little expense by judiciously breaking into existing combinations and diversifying the scene. Landscapes may be opened out, as may also distant views or objects of interest, and vistas opened up, all tending to beautify and create new interest. Ground-work alterations of all kinds should be pushed forward during dry weather, also what planting may yet remain to be done, as the press of spring work will be upon us next month. Conservatories : So many choice plants will now be in bloom, that courage in discarding, in accordance with the space, becomes a material point towards effective display. In their disposition, there should be space enough between the plants for them to be well seen. The flowering-plants should be mingled liberally with ornamental-leaved plants. Palms and Ferns are both elegant and effective for this purpose. Remove plants immediately they show symptoms of decay ; dry off by degrees Gesneras and tuberous-rooted Begonias in a dry temperate medium. Poinsettias , after flowering, should be afforded a season of comparative rest, and be partially dried off. Some of the grandest of decorative plants are found amongst the varieties of hybrid Rhododendrons , and if those are chosen which have a disposition to bloom early, no plants are more easily forced, and their fresh rich foliage, with gorgeous flowers, form very striking objects, par¬ ticularly in large houses. The neat and charming Kalmia latifolia is very desirable for early forcing, also that favourite plant the Lilac , which is so fragrant and serviceable for cutting. There are several suitable varieties, including the Persian and Siberian sorts, which are perhaps the best adapted for early forcing. Large specimen plants in these structures are, at this season of the year, when fire-heat is necessary for the generality of plants in bloom, apt to become dry at the root, unless special attention is directed towards them ; they must be frequently examined, giving several good soakings of water, so as to thoroughly moisten the balls, when they are found to be at all dry. Camellias must at all times be kept moist at the root, and the atmosphere about them cool by free ventilation, if they are expected to retain their buds till late in the spring. What watering requires to 10 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ January, be done should be seen to early in the mornings, for if much humidity is shut up with blooming plants at night, the heavy state of the atmosphere will cause the flowers to be but of short duration. Stove : Towards the end of the month a batch for early flowering of Achi- menes , Gesneras , Calcidiunis , &c., may be started ; and such kinds of stove plants as are required for early blooming should be cut back and started, choosing for this purpose the most matured. Allamctndas should be cut freely back to the thoroughly ripened wood, the balls reduced, and then potted firmly, in sound healthy loam, moderately enriched with rotten manure and sand. A portion of the Stephanotises , Bougainvilleas , and Clerodendrons should also be pruned and started. Rest Aphelandras , Euphorbias , and other plants past flowering, and keep general stock quiet for the present, preparatory for a start next month. Tan and other fermenting materials should be prepared in readiness for renewing the bottom-heat beds. Forcing-house: Successional batches must be introduced from time to time, not forgetting such plants as Spirceas , Deutzias , Dielytras , Pceonias, Thorns , Boses , Kalmias, Double-flowered Peaches , &c. Keep Hyacinths and other bulbs near to the glass, to prevent their becoming drawn. Greenhouse : A few of the earliest rested plants of Fuchsias should be cut back, and started in heat ; also give attention to young plants in a growing state, by promoting a genial temperature — stopping, tying, and watering must have prompt attention — keeping them near to the glass. Pelargoniums which have not yet been placed in their blooming-pots should be attended to without loss of time ; a few sonal varieties should be shifted on for early blooming ; guard against over¬ shifting. As the majority of plants require a compound of peat and loam to grow them successfully, a good supply should now be stored, so as to be in a healthy state of moisture when required for potting. Bedding Plants : Do not excite these into growth too early in the season, as no gain is derived therefrom. Alternantheras , Coleuses , and such plants as are required in quantities, should be started in a brisk growing temperature towards the end of the month, to produce cuttings. Guard against exciting hardy stock into growth, by keeping them closely shut up for the present. Give free ventila¬ tion. Prepare materials at once for hot-beds ; stable-litter and leaves, well moistened and sweetened by turning, are the best to use for this purpose. There are several kinds of seeds which should now be sown in heat, so as to insure strong plants by planting-out time, such as Verbena venosa , Acacia lophantha , Chamce - pence, Cineraria acanthifolia , Echeveria metallica , TJhdea , Geranium canariensis, Melianthus major , Wig cmdias, Solanums , Centaureas, &c. — George Westland, Witley Court. FRUITS. Vines : With the advent of the new year we look for a little more life in the forcing department, since brighter weather and a longer duration of daylight may be expected. Still we yet have a little longer to contend against long nights and short days, and therefore it is well not to be in too much of a hurry in the forcing of Vines and other fruits. The night temperature of the early vinery should be kept steady at about 60° to 65° till the Vines come into bloom, when syringing must cease for a time and the temperature be raised 10° by night, while in the day during sunshine it may range from 80° to 85°. Give air at all times when the weather will permit ; at other times, a little admitted through . the ventilators would be beneficial to keep up a circulation in the house. In the succession-house, the temperature should be raised to 55°, increasing by degrees as the Vines progress, Early Pot-vines should be assisted with liquid manure 1875. ] GARDEN WORK FOR JANUARY. 11 used at a temperature equal to that of the house ; thin the fruit ; stop the shoots, and cut away all useless growth. Old Grapes hanging on the Vines must be looked over often, and all decayed berries cut out ; give just enough fire-heat on cold nights to keep the frost out of the house, which must be well aired at all times. Peaches and Nectarines : Keep up a moist atmosphere in the early house till the trees come into bloom, when moisture should be withheld, and abundance of air admitted. If, however, the weather is adverse, so that air cannot be admitted with safety in sufficient quantity, recourse must be had to artificial means, by going over the blossoms and brushing them lightly with a small feather, which will greatly affect the setting of the fruit. A night-temperature of 55° at this stage is sufficient ; even a few degrees lower is preferable to the use of much fire-heat. Fumigate with tobacco on the first appearance of green-fly. Follow on with the succession-houses, as before directed. Cherries : The earliest batch of trees should have been placed under glass last month ; these should now be top-dressed, the pots plunged in the borders of the house, and the plants have a little assistance if early fruit is desired. Syringe the trees . on fine mornings, and to begin with, let them have a moist night- temperature of 45° ; give air every fine day. Pines : Plants starting into fruit should be watered, and the temperature kept as before advised ; moreover, if much fire-lieat be used, a moist atmosphere is requisite. Keep a steady heat of from 65° to 70° to all succession plants in dung-pits ; very little water, if any, will be required at present ; give a little air at mid-day in mild weather, and guard against sudden changes by regulating the cover¬ ings at night, and by attending to the linings. Collect plenty of leaves if not already done, and keep them in store for use when required. Strawberries : Do not give these much water till the fruit-spike is visible, for in early forcing keeping the plants dry at first is the best means of securing a crop. The plants should be placed on shelves in an airy part of the house, near the glass ; or it is a very good plan to plunge the pots in leaves in pits or frames. Give plenty of air through the day, and a little through the ventilators at night, place more plants under glass for succession, and keep all plants intended for later work protected from drenching rains. Melons : Sow a little seed towards the end of the month for an early crop, and prepare materials for making-up beds to receive the plants as soon as they are ready. Hardy Fruits : In pruning Wall Pear-trees the aim should be to keep the spurs as close in as possible, otherwise the advantage of the wall will in a measure be lost ; the spurs should be well thinned, and always cut back to the fruit-buds nearest the wall ; if this is continued at each winter pruning, the fruit-spurs will be kept close and neat. Proceed with the pruning of all fruit-trees ; lifting and root-pruning may also be carried on, if not done in October. Prune Standard trees in favourable weather, and if moss or scale infest them, scrape or scrub the stems and large branches with a stiff broom, and afterwards dress them with a mixture of soft-soap, soot, and urine. Pay strict attention to the Fruit Store , and remove every decayed fruit ; give air, if at all damp. This is a good time to wrap Apples in paper, and to place them in drawers or boxes for use in May and June. — J. Powell, Frogmore. VEGETABLES. It is but natural at this period to look back and question any former want of success, in order, if possible, to ascertain the source of failure. Seldom has so much and such varied experience been gained in such limited time as 12 THE FLORIST AND P0M0L0GIST. [ January, during the past season, and tliat more particularly in regard to Vegetable culture. In indifferently cultivated and bad soils the crops have, in the majority of instances, been extremely meagre, if not indeed deficient of all real merit ; whilst such as have been trenched, manured, and cultivated — as cultivation should be understood — have u given forth their increase,” and stood the drought and the all-powerful aridity with an immunity that has been remarkable. I have person¬ ally gained, during this period, many valuable lessons — more than could have fallen to the lot of all, from the simple fact that I had left a garden, that I had trenched and manured to the depth of an ordinary man’s stature, and brought it to such a tilth that irregularities of weather had little effect on it ; hence I knew something of the powerful effects of deep culture. This knowledge has, however, been increased by my present and newer experience in this my present field of experiments, in an eastern county, where unfortunately we have the minimum rainfall of this country, with perhaps the greater degree of sun-heat. I say, therefore, that those who would succeed in Vegetable-culture must spare not the spade, the pickaxe, or the muck -heap ; nor must they dally with the undertaking, as the sooner the work of trenching, digging, and manuring is completed, after the fall of the leaf, so much the better. There is no risk of a loss of force in the case of any description of soil. If it be heavy, the beneficial influences of the winter’s frosts and more penetrative air will exert the more power over it — its power of conserving such manure as is placed in its keeping being proverbial. If the soil be light, independent of the advantages derived from frost influences and the freer ingress of air into bare soils newly broken up, more time will be given to it to absorb the full benefits of the winter rains, and to settle down, and attain such mechanical solidity as is necessary in the case of all light soils to enable them to sustain a healthy vegetation. Above and beyond all this, the for¬ warding of all such work has an important bearing on the future. Successional crops of SeaJcale and Rhubarb must be insured by periodically transferring the pots and covering materials from those crowns which are used, to other fresh ones, adding more fermenting materials, with the view of freshening up the old, and maintaining the necessary heat. Mushrooms , which should now be freely produced, will need an uniform artificial warmth, between 58° and 75°, according to the state of growth of the several crops, and the advanced stage or otherwise of the successional beds. If the crop is abundant maintain the former, or lower heat, and do not hasten their growth ; while, if the supply is limited, urge the beds forward with the greater heat. Prepare fermenting materials, con¬ sisting of good Oak-tree leaves and wheaten-straw stable-litter, if possible, as being the best and most lasting (or that which is most like it) by mixing them well together, and turning them over as frequently as they become well heated, in order to sweeten the materials, and to bring them into a condition fit for making hot-beds as soon as possible, for the growth of Cucumbers and Melons , or where better means exist for these purposes, for the growth of other necessary crops. Bring all permanent work, such as the planting of Box-edgings, laying edging-stones, walk-formation, and such like operations, to a close as quickly as possible. — William Earley, Valentines. EUCHARIS AMAZONICA. HERE is perhaps no one place where this plant has been largely grown for so long a period, and at one time in such a quantity, as here. Still, with all our practice, I seek information respecting it. For example, can any one point out from experience how to treat the plant, so as to have it in 1875.] THE WELBECK SEEDLING NECTARINE. — CHATER’S NEW HOLLYHOCKS. 13 bloom in tbe same certain way we can bloom a Hyacinth or a Tulip ? Some say the plants should be dried off ; but drying them off means weakening the bulbs, and withal does not answer the purpose. Others say give them a check, and then follow this up by applying a strong bottom-heat ; but in nine cases out of ten, this has not the least effect. Of course, quiet and genial treatment keeps them going, one blooming now and then all the year through ; but where space is limited, and one good batch would have done, we are now no further forward in our knowledge of its ways than we were the first day the plant was introduced. — John Fleming, Cliveden. THE WELBECK SEEDLING NECTARINE. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. 'HIS Nectarine is a seedling raised by me, and was the result of a cross between the Balgowan and Elruge Nectarines. It was originally selected for its fine colour and flavour. It has now fruited here for several years, and has each season shown its good properties, the fruit being of the largest size for a nectarine, and nearly black in colour when well ripened, and then its flavour is delicious. This year the original tree bore a very heavy crop, from which the specimens figured were selected. A yellow-fleshed Nectarine, a seedling raised between the Pitmaston and Mr. Rivers’ Pine-apple Nectarines, has fruited with me this autumn for the first time. It is of a larger size than the Pine-apple, with its fine dark colour on the sunny side, and it also has its rich flavour, and therefore promises to be a variety worthy of growing along with the new kinds lately introduced. — William Tillery, Welbeck. *** The specimens of this fine Nectarine which Mr. Tillery sent us were not only exceedingly beautiful in appearance, but were also most excellent in quality. Our notes taken at the time run thus : — Leaves crenated ; glands reniform ; flowers small. Fruit as large as those of Balgowan, in some cases roundish-ovate, in others rather depressed, with a well-defined suture. Skin almost wholly covered with dark red, the shaded parts showing a little watery or pale green ground¬ colour, while the most exposed parts are of a very deep purple-red, sometimes slightly speckled. Flesh greenish- white, red at the stone, full-flavoured, very juicy, rich, and sugary. The flavour is brisk, yet luscious, and altogether it is one of the very best Nectarines we have ever tasted. — T. Moore. CHATER’S NEW HOLLYHOCKS. JT is now very nearly thirty years ago since Mr. William Chater, of Saffron Walden, offered to the public and sent out the first selection of improved and named Hollyhocks — a flower which he, with so much honest pride, terms u one of our noblest garden plants.” At that time, Mr. Chater had taken up the work of the improvement at the point where it had been dropped by the late Mr. Charles Baron, and from that time onwards, sometimes assisted in the work by other intelligent and enterprising florists, and sometimes standing 14 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ JANUARY, almost alone, lie lias continued to announce a batch of new varieties yearly, and consisting either of his own seedlings or those of the. Rev. Lord Hawke and other well-known cultivators. Mr. Chater some time since gave us a foretaste of his new varieties of the present year by sending to South Kensington examples of seedling flowers. While they showed undoubted signs of high-class quality, they were wanting, to some extent, in two characteristics that have always distinguished Mr. Ohater’s flowers in later years, — size and fine finish. Two influences had been sorely felt in the Hollyhock grounds at Saffron Walden ; one was the drought of the past summer following on the heels of damaging frosts in early June ; the other was the ravages of the Hollyhock disease. In spite of these, however, Mr. Chater has kept his stock together, and certain I am, from what I saw of the varieties at Saffron Walden during the past summer, that they will prove worthy successors to many fine flowers of the past ten years. Owing to the causes above mentioned, but one variety, Rose Supreme , received a First-class Certificate ; the exceedingly fine and full flowers are of a rosy- carmine hue, very bright and effective, and they form a noble spike for show purposes. The remainder are as follows : — Duke of Edinburgh, reddish crimson, a fine large full flower, and a noble spike ; Duchess of Edinburgh , soft silvery- peach, at times almost white ; a medium-sized flower, forming a fine spike ; this variety has a close habit of growth, and it is therefore requisite that the buds be thinned out to obtain fine flowers — the three foregoing are all tall growers. Ernest , apricot, pleasingly tinged with salmon, fine high bold flowers, very pretty and distinct ; Emma , salmon-flesh, large and well-filled flowers of the most approved symmetry, and forming a fine spike — these two are of medium growth. Golden Queen , rich golden yellow, large bold flowers of the finest quality, and makes a grand spike ; Rosy Queen , delicate rose, deepening towards the centre of the flower, very fine quality — these two are tall growers. Lastly, Selina , very pale creamy flesh, with deep carmine base, very pretty and distinct, and quite novel in point of colour — this is a medium-growing variety. All these are Mr. Cliater’s own seedlings. Here is a list of twenty-four of the finest flowers in cultivation : — Alba superba , pure white ; Black Gem , glossy blackish maroon ; Competitor , deep rich purple ; Eclipse , bright rosy red ; Edward Speed , French white, suffused with deep purple ; Eleanor (Hawke), soft pale rose, a greatly improved Willingham Defiance ; Emperor , crimson-maroon ; Exultium , rich shining maroon ; Fire King , bright glowing reddish crimson ; Golden Drop , perhaps the deepest and brightest yellow in cultivation ; Jessie Dean , clear apricot, sometimes tinted with salmon ; Joshua Clarke , brilliant cherry ; Junia , pale primrose, suffused and stained with purple ; Leviathan , bright reddish rose, very fine ; Lord Napier , deep glowing scarlet-crimson ; Midnight , deep glossy maroon ; Mrs. W. Chater , pale flesh, the colour deeper at the base ; Nonpareil , rich dark purplish maroon ; President , yel¬ lowish buff, heavily suffused and tinted with rose ; Rose J Amour, beautiful rosy 1876.] SALTING GRAVEL WALKS. — TILLANDSIA MUSAICA. 15 peach ; Ruby Queen (Hawke), deep shining ruby ; Walden King , bright scarlet ; Walden Queen, beautiful soft delicate flesh ; and Walden Primrose, clear pale primrose. It may be added that of this list of flowers, all are seedlings raised by Mr. Cliater, with the exception of two raised by Lord Hawke. — R. Dean, Ealing. HOW TO CLEAN GRAVEL WALKS WITH SALT. ’0 maintain garden walks in the best of order, and free from weeds, is often a very difficult task, especially where the means and assistance at the com¬ mand of the gardener are inadequate to the extent of ground allotted to his charge. Walks, moreover, to be really smooth and pleasant to walk upon, require either to be hand-picked or salted, and never touched by hoe or rake, which only bring the gravel to the surface, and leave the binding materials beneath. The plan we practise here is so simple and effectual, that I will try to explain it for the information of the readers of the Florist. Instead of boiling-water to melt the salt and applying it hot, as is done by Mr. Fleming’s method, we simply put the salt into cold water, at the rate of § lb. to the gallon of water. The water- cask we use holds upwards of a hogshead, and 28 lb. of salt is put at one time with 5G gallons of water ; while one man fills in the water another is stirring the salt, and by the time the proper quantity is in, the salt has melted, and the salted water is ready to move away to where it has to be applied. The two men, being each pro¬ vided with a large watering-pan having on it a widish-spreading rose, commence watering by facing the centre of the walk, and keeping their hands low, they move along the sides for a short distance first, so as not to allow any of the water to be nearer the box-edging or grass verge than about 4 in. They then turn into the centre of the walk, and apply only sufficient to make it wet all over the surface. This small quantity soon dries up and leaves the walk with a whitish appearance, which remains until rain falls to wash it down ; and then, as soon as it becomes dry it assumes a bright and clean appearance, and will keep so throughout the season. The great desideratum is, however, to make the application only when the walks are dry, and the weather clear and hot. Any time during the month of April is a suitable period. I prefer the coarse salt to fine. What we use is the same as the fish-curers make use of. The cost here is £2 per ton. J. Webster, Gordon Castle Gardens. TILLANDSIA MUSAICA. 'HIS handsomely marked Bromeliaceous plant, from the United States of Colombia, was sent out last season by Mr. W. Bull. It is a stove epiphyte, and as the illustration shows, is very handsomely marked. The leaves w which, as usual, sheath each other at the base, are somewhat channelled, teeuryed towards the apex, where they are either blunt or haye a short mucionato 16 [ January, .nc.,r. Baptistii and D. Hendersoni , of which, thanks to Messrs. Veitcli, we are able to append very char- 54 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [MARCH, acteristic figures. They both belong to the series with broadish oblong-lanceolate leaves, and in both cases the variegation consists of stripes of paler and brighter hues, distinct from the ground-colour, and abundantly different from the white and rosy tints which break out in the young growth of many other kinds, when well cultivated, the colours being here distributed in narrow lines or streaks. Both varieties are said to come from the Soutli-Sea Islands ; they are probably, like most of the other recently-introduced sorts, the result of cultivation there. j Draccenci Baptistii was introduced from the nursery of the Messrs. Baptist, of Sydney. Its leaves are of a purplish-bronze colour, 1^- ft. to 2 ft. long, tapering at the base, and acuminate at the apex ; they are bold in character, and margined and irregularly and obliquely marked with narrow stripes or flakes of creamy- yellow, which pass through pale pink to deep rose as the leaf acquires age. While growing the plant shows all these graduations of colour, and is then extremely interesting ; but at the end of the season, the rosy tint predominates in the markings. The stalks of the leaves are striped in a manner similar to the leaves themselves, the markings of which appear in the youngest stages of growth. This plant has gained certificates both from the Royal Horticultural and Royal Botanic Societies. Draccenci Ilenclersoni resembles the preceding in that it has narrowly striped leaves, but yet the plants are thoroughly distinct. The leaves in the present form are equally bold in character, being from 1^ ft. to 2 ft. long, and 4 in. to 5 in. broad, of elegant and graceful habit ; but the surface is more thickly marked, so as to acquire a mottled appearance, with short irregular and unequal white and rosy-pink streaks. It was certificated last season by the Royal Botanic Society. — T. Moore. HARDY GRAPES RIPENING IN 1874. COLLECTION of Hardy Grapes planted on a glass-covered wall here ripened during the last fine summer and autumn the best crop I have ever grown on it. Perhaps the names of the varieties may be interesting to some of the readers of the Florist and Pomologist who may want to plant hardy Grapes in houses without fire-heat, or on the open walls. Although such warm favourable summers as that of 1874 only come at intervals, still there are some kinds of hardy Grapes that, with a little attention in protecting them in the cold spring months, when budding or in flower, will produce ripe grapes in our ordinary summers. The glass-covered wTall here, where the hardy Grapes are planted, has only artificial heat applied when the Peaches and Nectarines are in flower, so that the Grapes have not the same advantage at their blooming time. I will commence with the White Grapes, as they were the earliest in ripening. The Early White Malvasici , or Early Kienzheim of the Royal Horticultural Society, ripened perfectly in the middle of August ; this sort seems to me to be synonymous with the Grove-End Sweetwater. Royal Muscadine , or the Chcisselas de Fontainebleau of the French, ripened in the end of August, and is one of the very FRUIT-CULTURE V. CREMATION. 55 1875. ] best early white grapes. Early Smyrna -Frontignan is a Frontignan-flavoured grape, and ripened as early as tlie Royal Muscadine. Early Saumur Frontignan is another very early-ripening Frontignan-flavoured sort. The Prolific Sweet¬ water and Buckland Sweetwater ripened in the end of September, and got to a fine amber colour in October, and their flavour was excellent. Of early Black Grapes, the Sarbelle Frontignan , a purple Frontignan-flavoured variety, ripened in the beginning of September, but it has only a small bunch. The Esperione or Espiran , the hardiest of the Black Hamburgh section, ripened in the middle of September, and was finely coloured. The Welbeck Black Tripoli ripened in the middle of October, the bunches being as fine as some of the same variety grown in the vineries. To show that the fine warm dry summer of 1874 has been particularly favour¬ able for ripening Grapes in unheated structures, I may state that two plants of the Muscat of Alexandria which were planted out in mistake with the hardy sorts both ripened their bunches ; the grapes were not very highly coloured, but perfectly Muscat-flavoured and good. A plant of Pearson’s Ferdinand de Lesseps Vine likewise, lately planted out in the same collection, has borne some bunches this year, and promises to bear well as a hardy Grape. Some of the above varieties of Hardy Grapes will ripen their fruit, even in bad seasons, in all our southern counties, if planted on a south aspect on walls or buildings. There cannot be a finer ornamental climber on a poor man’s cottage than a Vine, whether in leaf or in fruit, but it requires attention in nailing or tying it to the walls, and in properly thinning and stopping the shoots every year. If allowed to grow wild, it gets battered about by the wind, and is then both un¬ sightly and unproductive. There is no occasion for making expensive borders in which to grow hardy Grapes out-of-doors, for if the soil is anything at all of a fertile nature and drained, they will succeed well on it. In planting them in unheated structures, it would perhaps be better to give them a newly-made border, if the natural soil is not suitable or drained, with the view to the production of good- sized bunches and well-flavoured berries. — William Tillery, Welbeck . FRUIT-CULTURE versus CREMATION. READ with some interest Mr. Forsyth’s remarks on the above subject (Florist, 1874, 27G), but am afraid they will be somewhat apt to mislead. Is “ Mother Earth robbed of her rights,” if the lamp of science shows us that it is better to employ a quick and cleanly method of decomposition. instead of a slow and repulsive one? I think decidedly not. Fire merely separates tho chemical elements of bodies (which elements are indestructible), and sots them free in a harmless form. The gases gonerated by heat, being lighter than tho air near the surface of the earth, mount rapidly, and leave us the pure air to breathe ; while Dame Nature, who is a perfect chemist, just as sho is perfect everywhere, when man does not thwart her, mixes her manures up among tho moisture-laden clouds, and down tlioycomo in tho most perfect form of rain. This is one reason that rain does plants more good than spring- water, simply becauso the latter is spent, having lost its manurial properties by contact with the dry soil — one of the best deodorisers — or with tlio root-perforated earth. Flosh and blood, when decomposed, are both valuable manures without a doubt,, but in a crude stato thoy do far moro harm than good. THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, 56 Take the old system of manuring Vine borders with dead cattle and deer, for example. This was commonly done forty or fifty years ago, and singularly enough, small grapes were then the rule rather than the exception. Compare the results with those now afforded by pure turfy loam, lime rubbish, and a few handfuls of bone-dust. Even supposing that our churchyards do produce fine fruit, do they not also exert a baneful influence on the water- supply of many districts ? Sensitive people would not care to be told that the luscious Bon Chretien or Marie Louise they were eating had derived its exquisite flavour from the rotting bones of a burial-ground. I said‘ exquisite flavour,’ because Nature is too perfect in the art of chemistry to leave any traces of the source whence she derives her delicate flavours and balmy perfumes ; and fruit grown in a churchyard is quite as free from any impurities as that grown in the purest virgin soil. It makes no matter how we apply manures, plants can only absorb them in watery solution or in a gaseous form ; and whatever change takes place in the food and moisture after they enter the tissues of the plant, one thing is clear, namely, that the spongioles act much in the same way as the stomach in animals, since they exercise the power of selecting nothing but what the plant requires to complete its development. Cremation is a dreadful bogey to a certain class, but I believe Mr. Forsyth’s theory of utilising dead bodies as manure* would meet with a far greater amount of disapproval from all intelligent people. Had man remained in his natural state, cremation would scarcely have been required, but in large and densely populated places it has become almost a neces¬ sity — a necessary evil, if you will, and is in the opinion of many far preferable to the costly and morbid display which, in too many cases, attends our present mode of burial in densely crowded localities. — F. W. Burbidge. %* See on this subject, Mr. F. Seymour Haden’s letter in the Times , of January 12, 1875, in which he argues that the remedy for the evils of our present system of Burial is a recogni¬ tion of, and a timely submission to, a well-defined law of nature ; that the soil at our feet and everywhere at our disposal is the most potent antiseptic known, and the readiest of application ; and by a combination of forces inherent in it, which might well appear contra¬ dictory, but for the wonderful purposes they are destined to effect, it is resolvent and refor¬ mative as well, so that what under the influence of the air was putrefaction, in the earth becomes resolution, what was offensive becomes inoffensive, and what was decay becomes a process of transmutation. “ To doubt that one of the purposes for which the earth was tlms endowed is the resolution and conversion of its dead, or its perfect competency to effect that purpose, would pass comprehension, if habit had not taught us to shut our eyes to it.” — Ed. GARDEN WORK FOR MARCH. FLOWERS. @ HOUGH the thermometer approached zero during the closing days of the past year, it is remarkable how thoroughly even tender plants have escaped f injury. This is to be attributed solely to the persistent mantle of snow by which vegetation was enveloped. I have not observed that a single plant has been damaged ; the bands of Echeveria secundct glavca , a plant that has never stood here before in the open borders without protection, remain as fresh as ever, and the blossoms of the Laurustinus are not affected. Ornamental Shrubs upon lawns must now be pruned, so as to preserve their proportions, such kinds as Bags, Portugal Laurels , Hollies , Aucubas , &c., being cut. with the knife, so as not to lacerate the foliage. Lawns should be looked over at this season, grubbing up by the roots daisies, dandelions, plantains, and all the coarse weeds which are likely to become unsightly if not eradicated. Poses should now be pruned, thinning the shoots freely out, and preserving the strongest, which should be cut back in proportion to the vigour of the in¬ dividual kinds. The more robust should be left from 12 in. to 18 in. in length, whereas the weaker growers — for instance, Marie Baumann, Louis Van Houtte, &c. — are most satisfactory when cut in close. Make good all vacancies, and if not already done, slightly fork over the surface, avoiding deep digging. HollghocJcs should now be planted out upon ground that has been deeply trenched, and heavily enriched with decomposed manure ; plant at about 3 ft. 1875. ] GARDEN WORK FOR MARCH. 57 apart. The beds for Carnations should be prepared by dressing with fresh loam and cow-manure in a thoroughly decomposed state ; if this has not been mixed with the loam and frequently turned previous to use, it should be turned up in the beds to the action of the weather previous to planting, and it is important that the manure should be well incorporated with the soil. The same remarks hold good in respect to Pinks. Pansies may be planted in beds which are in good condition, and delight in a moderately-shaded position ; choose a favourable time for planting-out, when the soil is rather dry. Gladioli may also be planted, and a sowing of Hardy A nnuals made towards the end of the month, provided that the ground is in a dry state, otherwise nothing is gained by sowing early. Trans¬ plant autumn-sown Annuals into the places where they are to flower, being care¬ ful to remove them with good balls attached ; when properly attended to, few plants present a more cheerful effect than these during the spring months. Conservatories will now be brilliant with the gayest of flowers, and from the great variety we possess, it becomes necessary to discard freely, to prevent crowd¬ ing. Camellias planted out for early blooming will now be past, and their form should be regulated by cutting back wayward shoots, at the same time guarding against too free a use of the knife, much cutting being inimical to bud-formation. If the soil about the roots has become poverty-stricken, a surface-dressing of fresh soil will be necessary ; this is not to be recommended if the plants are vigorous and healthy, as Camellias are not improved by too much meddling at the roots, and, moreover, when once established in proper soil, they will last for a number of years without needing to be disturbed. Give to plants that are starting into growth manure-water with soot. Luculias that have finished blooming should be freely cut back, and preparatory to their putting out fresh growth, they should be dressed with a preparation inimical to tlirips and red-spider, to which pests they are subject. Towards the end of the month, during bright gleams of sunshine, a movable shading of tiffany will be serviceable at times. In the Greenhouse , the Indian Azaleas that have finished blooming should have the seed-vessels picked off. Before starting them into growth they should be thoroughly fumigated, or what is better and more permanently efficacious, immersed in or syringed with the following mixture ( — in 10 gallons of water dissolve 5 lbs. of soft-soap, and add 2 gallons of good tobacco-water), as a cure for red-spider or thrips. Epacrises that were cut over to within an inch or two of the previous season’s growth a month ago, will now be starting into growth, and should be potted into moderate-sized, thoroughly-drained pots, using a sandy peat, and being particular that they are firmly potted ; they will start most freely in a close, slightly-heated pit, kept moderately moist, being careful not to give too much water at the root until they become established. Cut back Linums , Eupatoriums , Libonias , and Monochcetums that have finished blooming, and propagate from the young wood. Propagate also an early batch of Perpetual Carnations , which will now root freely in heat, and make famous plants for winter blooming, if liberally grown on. Encourage Hydrangeas , which are so valuable for decorative purposes, with liberal waterings of liquid manure. Pelargoniums will now be growing freely, and will require attention, both in regard to watering and the tying of the shoots, the main object being to secure symmetrical plants, with the shoots equally balanced. With the increased length of days, an increase of temperature may be allowed, and greater humidity of atmosphere. Roof-ventilation should be given early on bright mornings, but be careful at all times to avoid draughts, and shut up early in the afternoon, which will economise heat. Weak manure-water should now be given to such as are in a forward state, The fragrant Italian Tuberoses, which are deserving of more 58 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, general cultivation, should now be procured, as imported roots are most to bo depended upon ; pot them singly in 6-in. or 7-in. pots, well drained in a compost of turfy loam, enriched with one-tliird rotten dung or leaf-soil, and opened with sand, which will grow them freely ; the crowns should be covered about an inch with soil. Place them in bottom-lieat until established, watering sparingly, and afterwards gradually hardening them until they will bear exposure near to the glass in a greenhouse, where they will require an abundance of water. Auriculas , as the plants are now growing freely, must have protection from frosts, with a more liberal supply of water at the roots ; give an abundance of air upon every favourable occasion, and fumigate occasionally to keep down the green-fly. Cinerarias will be coming into flower, and must be kept free from insects by frequent fumigations ; the plants must be well supplied with manure- water, and be kept near to the glass. The same remarks hold good in regard to Calceolarias ; the latest-struck plants should at once have their final shift, and be kept near to the glass, staking and tying-out the flower-stems as they advance in growth. Sow seeds of Primula sinensis and of Cinerarias for early flowering. Stoves : The potting of all kinds of plants in these will now be completed, and attention must be directed to the timely shifting of young growing stock, which should never be allowed to become pot-bound. Euphorbia jacqxdniae flora should be cut back, first allowing the plants to become moderately dry, so as to prevent any excess of bleeding. They are very difficult to keep compact, with¬ out tying-down, which is an unnatural-looking method ; but if potted when they have fairly broken, and plunged in a brisk heat, they will make rapid progress, and the young shoots should be pinched back when about 4 in. in length, which will tend to multiply their number, and with one other stopping when they are again about the same length, the foundation will be more dense and well furnished. The plants should afterwards be kept in the full sun and near to the glass ; indeed they should never be shaded or over-potted. Thus treated, one of the most straggling and yet most lovely of plants may be somewhat restricted in habit, and thus made more serviceable. Successional batches of Achimenes, Gloxinias, Caladiums, and Begonias should be started. Increase the temperature and mois¬ ture in proportion to the lengthening days, syringing at the time of shutting-up. At present, ventilate at the apex onty, and thus avoid cold currents of air. Bedding Plants : Propagation should now be pushed forward with despatch. Alterncintheras will be growing freely, and should be propagated in quantities, as by far the best plants are procured from cuttings that are rooted now. Some growers propagate quantities of these in autumn, under the idea that they will have finer plants, which is a mistake, for without they are cut complete^ to the ground and started afresh, they will never produce healthy growth. Start Dahlia roots in a brisk, moist heat. Sow seeds of Tender A nnuals, such as Celosias, Balsams , Amarantlius , Nicotiana , Per ilia, Picinus, Tagetes, &c. Such Pelargoniums as have been -wintered in boxes should now be potted ; those that are in small pots will be benefited by a shift into fresh soil ; even if they are but shaken out and replanted in the same-sized pots, they will be found to derive benefit therefrom, and their roots, being in a fresher condition at planting-out time, will more quickly grasp the fresh soil than those which have been long confined in small pots ; they will also more than save the labour of potting by requiring less water at the root. Bedding Pelargoniums are now so numerous that it is somewhat difficult to make a selection, as most growers have special favourites. The following I find to possess a free-flowering habit, with continuity of bloom throughout the season : — Scarlet — Vesuvius, Waltham Seedling, Bayard, Violet Hill Nosegay (should be grown in rich soil, when it is first-class), Bonfire, Grand Duke ; Pink — Amaranth, 1S75. ] GARDEN WORK FOR MARCH. 59 Mrs. Fytclie, Cleopatra ; White — White Princess, Madame Vaucher, White Clipper; Golden Tricolor — Sophia Dumaresque, Mrs. Pollock, William Sandy ; Silver-leaved — Flower of Spring, Qaeen of Queens, Mangles’s Variegated May Queen ; Bronze and Golden Leaf- — Marechal MacMahon, Black Douglas, Golden Harry Hieover, Crystal Palace Gem, Golden Fleece. Plant out Calceolarias in cold frames, or they may be planted out in turf-pits or sheltered situations towards the end of the month. — George Westland, Witley Court. FRUITS. Vines : Now that we are getting more light and solar heat, the temperature in the succession houses may range from G5° to 70° at night, and be raised in proportion through the day. Early Muscats coming into flower require a high temperature, with air to ensure their setting property. Keep up the requisite moisture in the early house till the fruit begins to colour ; make the best of sun- heat by closing early in the afternoon, and if, after a bright day, the house be closed at a temperature of 85° or 90°, so much the better. The beginning of this month is a good time for starting Muscats , Lady Downes’ Seedling , and Alicante intended for keeping late in the season. Vines in Pots intended for fruiting next season, should now be potted, and plunged in a moderate heat. See last month’s directions for other Vines in pets. Figs : Keep a night temperature of about 60° to those started last month ; maintain the necessary moisture by syringing at closing time, and damping the floors of the house. Remove all useless growth, so that the shoots do nob get overcrowded. A good supply of water, with liquid manure occasionally, should be given to those in pots. Peaches and Nectarines : See previous directions in regard to temperature, &c. Thin the fruit in the early house by degrees, leaving sufficient at present to allow for dropping during the process of stoning. Towards the end of the month, as light and heat increase, the temperature may range a little higher, especially in bright weather ; thin out the shoots, selecting and tying in those required for fruiting next season ; use the syringe night and morning to keep the trees in a healthy condition, and water the inside borders ; give plenty of air to the late house when the trees are in bloom. Pines : Any succession plants requiring a shift, that were not done last month, should now be potted, and for this use a porous turfy loam mixed with a little rotten manure ; do not 2wess the soil hard in the pots ; avoid strong bottom-lieat, and keep the plants a little close for a few days after potting. When they begin to grow, more air should be admitted. Pot suckers and attend to the linings of those in dung-pits. Look carefully over the entire stock of plants, and give to any that are dry a good soaking of water. Give air according to the state of the wTeather. See previous directions for plants in fruit. Cherries and Plums : When the trees are in flower, the atmosphere should bo less humid, and abundance of air must be admitted ; keep a night temperature of 60°, and through the day, during sunshine the glass may range 10° higher. Great care should be taken after the fruit is set, as too much heat at that stage will endanger the crop. Plums require plenty of water at the root, but in other respects may have similar treatment to the Cherry. Strawberries: During the time the fruit is swelling, the plants should be liberally supplied with liquid manure ; do not at any time allow them to suffer from drought ; clip off all deformed fruit and small flowers. Use the syringe to keep down red-spider, and give plenty of air to those in bloom. Place more plants in late vineries or pits for succession. If the demand for this fruit be large, 60 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGHST. [ March, and the stock of plants limited, some strong young plants may now be taken up with a ball from the open ground, potted and placed under glass at once. These, if taken up carefully and potted in rich soil, will usually produce a good crop. Melons : Attend to the linings, and maintain a top-heat of 70°; earth up the plants as they advance in growth, adding a little by degrees. Pinch out the points of the leading shoots, when they have reached nearly across the bed, and thin and stop all others just above the show for fruit, i.e., the fruit-blossom. Air freely in good weather, but close the frames early in the afternoon. Hardy Fruits: If any work in this department advised last month re¬ mains undone, it should be proceeded with at once. Mulch all newly-planted trees ; also those in a weakly condition. Plant Strawberries , and use the hoe frequently in dry weather round the plants in the fruiting-beds. Prune Filberts as soon as the blossoms are visible ; shorten or cut out all shoots that do not show for fruit, and keep the main branches thin. Graft Plums and Cherries , also Pears , Apples , &c., at the end of the month. Head down at once large trees that are intended to be grafted this season. Attend to the protection of Peach and Apricot blossoms. Give air daily in bright weather to Orchard-houses and glass-cases, closing early in the afternoon if any appearance of frost ; keep the houses dry and airy while the trees are in bloom. — J. Powell, Frogmore. VEGETABLES. March is, perhaps, one of the busiest months in the kitchen garden proper. The ground should have all been dug or trenched, and hence should now be in readiness for the bulk of sowing operations — this more especially after the first two or three weeks. We do not advise too early sowing, because very harsh weather is sometimes experienced during the first two weeks in April, and it is not advisable by sowing too early in March to have the tender seedling plants just through the ground under such conditions, running the unnecessary risk of a severe check. Where the ground has been long dug up and become surface-bound by snow and frost, it may be well to lighten it up again. Heavy soils may be neatly fork-dug, so as to disintegrate all large clods, &c., packing it up lightly, and leaving it to dry. Light soils, no matter how long they may have been dug or trenched, will at the most only need to have their surface slightly freshened up. Should a wet period occur about the time indicated, do not by any means attempt to sow the seeds ; but if u March dust ” then prevails, use the utmost despatch to get in all such things as second-crop Peas , Broad Beans , Spinach , Lettuce , Endive , Parsley , &c. ; such main crops as Onions , Parsnips , Carrots, &c. ; and an early sowing of Beet , Brussels Sprouts , Coleworts , Cabbage, Savoy , Early Broccoli (Snow’s, Walcheren, Grange’s, &c.), and Turnips (Early Stone or American Strap-leaved Bed). Sow in the main moderately shallow, as it is neither natural nor desirable to sow any such seeds deeply. Work the soil freely about and around the seeds, and have instant resort to the customary means to protect them from birds and other enemies. Autumn-sown Cauliflowers must receive an increased supply of air, by removing all kinds of protection entirely by day, and only half covering them by night during all fine and moderately fine weather. Bring the planting of Jerusalem Artichokes, Globe Artichokes , Horse-radish , Seakale, Asparagus , Potatos (early), Onions (Tripoli), &c., to a close by the end of the month. Make fresh beds or plantations of all permanent kinds of Herbs, such as Sage, Thyme , Tarragon , Mint , Winter Savory , fyc. ; and in all instances where, owing to the youth or thriftiness of existing beds, this may not be deemed necessary, give to such as were not mulched according to the conventional way in the autumn, a good 1875. ] APPLE LADY HENNIKER. - FRUIT-TREE TRAINING. 61 mulching with small or finely decomposed leaf-mould, pruning back all such plants as have become unduly large and bare in the centre. Amateurs who may not have commenced growing Cucumbers or Melons , as suggested last month, should now make a commencement, by preparing the necessary materials, making up the necessary beds, and sowing the chosen seeds with all possible despatch. Monro’s Duke of Edinburgh or Telegraph are good varieties of the former, and Read’s Scarlet , or where the high heat necessary cannot always be maintained, Little Heath , will be found meritorious varieties of the latter. Sow Tomatos , either of the kinds known as Hathaway’s Excelsior , Carter s Green Gage , or Earley’s Defiance. In regard to Cucumbers , &c., permanently advancing, keep up an uniform warmth of 70° by night, to beincressed 5° or 10° by day, according to the brightness or otherwise of the weather, but always insure a moderately moist atmosphere in conjunction with all the fresh air possible. — William Earley, Valentines . APPLE LADY HENNIKER. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. E are already in possession of such a large and excellent stock of Apples, that the introduction of a new variety would seem almost a work of supererogation. Of kitchen or cooking apples especially, we have a very 2$ extended list, and many which, when well cultivated, are so good, that it would be extremely difficult to find fault with them. We are bound to admit, however, that occasionally advances are made, and new varieties introduced which are decided acquisitions ; and among such we may place the subject of our present notice and illustration. The Apple Lady Henniker is of the largest size, some fruits measuring over 13 in. in circumference. It is of the Codlin shape, the fruits being high, in¬ clining to conical, and obtusely angular. The eye is small for such a large fruit, open, and placed in a deep, angular cavity. The stalk is short and deeply placed. The skin is of a deep straw-colour on the shaded side, light brown where exposed, and streaked with bright crimson, with a small patch of russet near the stalk. The flesh is of a pale yellow, firm and tender, of a brisk, sub-acid flavour. It is very excellent when cooked ; and is in season from October to Christmas. It is a seedling raised by Mr. Perkins, the gardener to Lord Henniker, at Tliornham Hall, Eye, Suffolk, and was awarded a First-class Certificate by the Royal Horticultural Society. The variety is now in the hands of Messrs. Ewing and Co., of Norwich, by whom it is being sent out, and to whom we are indebted for the very fine example represented in our plate. — A. F. Barron. FRUIT-TREE TRAINING. WISH to supplement Mr. Temple’s remarks on this important and seasonable topic with a few others, and this having been the subject of conversation on <^> a recent visit to Blenheim, I make them with the greater freedom, as ‘V our views entirely coincided. One great source of bad training may be ascribed to delay in the discarding of what are technically termed rider-trained 62 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, or standard-trained trees. These and the dwarf-trained trees are commonly planted together, alternately, and of course the “ rider ” is planted with the primary inten¬ tion of cutting it back or destroying it as the dwarf advances, but this is done in such a cheeseparing and gingerly way, that the poor dwarf never gets of age, which it should do at 10 years, till it is perhaps 20 or 30 years old — perhaps even never, for the rider, its miner as it may be termed, is allowed to remain, and while it never makes a decent tree of itself, it does not allow its lowly neighbour to become one. My humble opinion is that rider-trees should never be planted, for two chief reasons — that they are costly, and never make a return for the outlay, if you take into consideration the deteriorating effect they have on the well-being of the permanent dwarf-trained trees. Riders and dwarfs look very pretty on a wall, when about 8 or 10 years old, but the dwarfs look much handsomer planted alone, occupying the whole surface, and covering the entire wall, as they should do at this age. If planted at 20 ft. apart, on a 14-ft. wall, Apricots and Plums should cover this space in less time than that just indicated. — Henry Knight, Floors. DRACAENAS— REGINA, AMABILIS, Etc. RACiENAS are without doubt some of the most noble and useful plants that we possess for general decorative purposes, being alike applicable for the embellishment of the conservatory, dinner-table, and dwelling-house, and scarcely less so for that of the flower-garden during the summer months. They present a fresh, lustrous leafage, and elegance of outline which is not sur¬ passed by any other class of plants ; and, thanks to the indefatigable exertions of our collectors, there have been introduced into cultivation of late a large and diversified assortment, remarkable both for their varied general aspect, and for the rich hues of their leaf-colouring. Of the light and rose-coloured species, I can confidently recommend D. amabilis , D. imperialism and D. regina , as most distinct and desirable acquisitions, since they contrast so effectively with the crimson kinds. It is, however, more particularly respecting the last-named species that I shall now offer a few comments. The Draccena regina was introduced by the late Mr. John G. Veitcli, from the South Sea Islands, and was distributed by the Messrs. Veitcli in 1868 ; yet -we but seldom meet with it grown so as to develop that striking contrast which the white variegation of the plant is capable of producing under a more liberal system of cultivation. I would here remark that the finest plants I have been able to produce have been from top-cuttings, rooted annually upon the plants. Two upward incisions are made with the knife, one on each sido of the stem, the wound being kept open by the introduction of a chip of crock, and wrapped round with Sphagnum moss, while the top is secured by means of a firm stake. The plants are afterwards placed in a close, moist stove-heat, and the moss kept constantly wet by syringing. Thus treated they will emit roots profusely in the course of a few weeks, when they may be cut off and potted, and with the pots plunged in a brisk, moist temperature, they will quickly establish tliemselvos 63 1S75. ] THE ECONOMY OF LABOUR IN GARDENS. - - - - without the slightest symptom of exhaustion, or the loss of a single leaf. They must be potted on as they require it, and in this way they produce, in a strong, healthy, dwarf form, those distinct characteristics of leaf-variegation which are so effective and desirable in decorative plants. Of course, the tops may be cut off and rooted as cuttings in separate pots, but I find that when so treated, strong gross tops are apt to lose a portion of their leaves, which detracts considerably from their effectiveness. This species grows freely in a compost formed of rich turfy loam and peat in about equal parts, adding sand and charcoal to insure porosity. It is important to drain the pots freely, as they require an abundance of water when growing, and they need syringing freely to keep under both thrips and red-spider, which would quickly mar the lustre of the foliage if allowed to become established upon it. Encourage the plants in a brisk heat when growing, and harden off by degrees for decorative purposes. They will stand exposure well. When well grown, I find this Drcicama one of the most unique and pleasing decorative plants that we possess. It is from the great facility with which this class of plants is generally grown, that minute items of cultural requirements, in the case of certain species, are overlooked. — George Westland, Withy Court. THE ECONOMY OF LABOUR IN GARDENS. ARt is truly astonishing to observe, in the course of one’s rambles, the disorder and slovenliness which occur in performing the most trifling matters, in Iff some establishments, from sheer lack of forethought, and not from the lack of sufficient strength or time to perform everything in a proper way, were the bump of Order but present. This lack of forethought in neglecting to lay down simple economical plans for performing all and every little operation, and in not seeing that it is duly performed, is the reason why we find some folks always behind, and always in a muddle. In many places I have observed, both indoors and out, that gardeners and their men, in the season of thinning the young shoots of Peaches, Nectarines, and other fruit-trees, or thinning and stopping the young shoots of Vines, whether they are infested with aphis or other insects or not, drop all the refuse on to the floor or borders, and tread it under-foot, leaving it, in fact, for some other person to clear away afterwards, and thus allowing the aphis an opportunity to hide away ready to make another attack. Instead of this, they should wear an apron or a nail-bag, to receive at once from the hand all such thinnings and refuse, which is thence to be conveyed into a box or basket, always provided and at hand for the purpose, and which, when full, should bo carried off to the stoke-hole fires, to the fire that is kept for heating the boiler of hot water for syringing, or furnishing tepid water for plant-watering, or to bo buried in a fermenting rubbish-heap, where hot lime is pretty frequently made use of. Thus the nuisance of the rub¬ bish being left under-foot is done away with, and the time of the person who has to come after and collect it, and which might be much more profitably employed, is saved. 64 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ Makch, Another slovenly practice I have also many times observed, is that of men when thinning, disbudding, stopping, pruning, or nailing fruit-trees, treading-down the edgings of the borders, and putting everything out of shape or order, instead of making use of two light boards to stand on. These boards should be about 5 ft. or 6 ft. in length, 1 in. thick, and 10 in. or 12 in. wide, with three little ledges nailed across the under-side, one in the middle, and one within 3 in. or 4 in. of each end, for the convenience of moving them easily with the foot or hand as the work proceeds ; and they should always be taken away to the tool- house with the ladder, when the work is done, and swept clean, so as to be dry and ready for next day’s work. How often, too, are we obliged to observe digging and trenching performed in the most slovenly, unworkmanlike manner ; two men placed to perform it on narrow slips and borders where there is only room for one man’s strength, the clods allowed to tumble over on to the walk, and the weeds, leaves, and rubbish left in the edgings for another person to clear up ! — James Barnes, Exmouth . COTONEASTER FRIGIDA. «R. SAUL, of Stourton, has recently (Florist 1874, 279) called attention, , and very properly so, to the beauty of Cotoneaster Simonsii. I supple- efiSl) men^ inviting attention to the Cotoneaster frigida , — not indeed V§S as being so useful for game coverts as the one Mr. Saul mentions, because it grows too high, while its habit is quite different, it being a deciduous shrub, while C. Simonsii is an evergreen. Nevertheless, for ornamental groups in parks, or in a mixed shrubbery in the pleasure-ground, planted in a conspicuous place, I question if C. frigida is equalled by any other berry-bearing shrub, at the time when it is at its best, that is, from September till the beginning of December. The berries, which are of the deepest and most brilliant red, are produced in great profusion, but when they are fully ripe the birds take them, or they would remain to be serviceable much longer. At this place there is a very nice natural rock-garden, leading down to the water, with a bank on each side of it. A plant of this Cotoneaster is growing on each bank, with other ornamental things, and when it is in fruit it is so conspicuous at a distance, that those unacquainted with its appearance are quite puzzled to imagine what it is. A better knowledge of its highly ornamental qualities would, however, convince all such persons that it is a shrub not to be lost sight of, and quite worthy of a prominent place in all pleasure-ground arrangements. — Thomas Record, Vinters Park, Maidstone. PLUMS FOR A NORTH WALL. OME readers of the Florist and Pomologist may be interested to know what Plums are suitable for a north wall, for it happens in many gardens, large and small, that north walls are not made the best of. Five years ago, such was the case here, and we planted three trees of Rivers’s Early Pro¬ lific and two of Rivers's Early Favourite Plums, Both these have proved, for 1875. ] PECULIARITIES OF VINE-CULTURE. 65 the last two seasons, the most productive Plums that we have here, and succeed the same kinds grown on the south wall, those on the north being about a fortnight later than those on the south wall — those on the south wall ripening at the end of July, those on the north wall about the middle of August. When they are thoroughly ripe the flavour is good, being very sweet and juicy, and they can be used either for tarts or dessert. Another Plum we have grown on the same wall is Prince Englebert , which was figured in the Florist and Pomologist for December, 1874 ; this bears and ripens well, and is good enough for the dessert-table. Denyers Victoria is also with us a great bearer, but the fruit grown on the north wall is not so large nor so good in flavour as that which is grown on an east wall in the same garden ; it is nevertheless very useful for culinary purposes. The Orleans Plum does well with us on the north wall. We grow both the Blue Imperatrice and the Ickworth Imperatrice on the same wall, but they are very shy bearers compared with those named above ; still, being very late varieties, they are worth growing, as they hang on the trees well for weeks after they are ripe. — William Plester, Elsenham Hall Gardens. PECULIARITIES OF VINE-CULTURE. jUKING the thousands of years that have gone by since men first grew corn and wine, every year has had its seed-time, its vintage, and its harvest ; and we infer that each generation has left its laws and code of culture to the next, in the first instance, by act or word, and eventually by writing. Hence we read of the browsing of a goat first suggesting the pruning of the Vine. From that rude beginning, down to our own time, what changes have come over pruning ! I once saw a celebrated Grape-grower, Mr. Crawshay, at Colney Hatch, Middlesex, prune his Vines so closely that they were as smooth as walking-sticks ! He trusted to adventitious buds for a crop, and was not disappointed ; but, let me ask, what other plant than the Vine would have borne such cutting, and yet have lived and borne fruit ? When a plant in a pot pushes forth roots, they naturally travel outward and downward, and in so doing, keep feeling their way all round the pot for an outlet, so that one side of the feeders is always starving against a brick-earth pot. Now, in olden times, there were bulb-pots of great depth used, because the feeders of the bulbs made their way chiefly downward. The usual shape of a flower-pot is that of the frustum of a cone, whose greatest diameter is the same as its depth ; but if the health and well-being of the plant were all that we were concerned about, the depth might be doubled, for we see the roots of a Hyacintli- bulb in water shaping their course downward, although there is nothing to divert them from spreading. It seems to be an established fact that wherever water is rising in the form of vapour, there is always electricity. Again, we have the positive and negative of the earth and the air, so that at the very surface of the earth, and neither higher G 66 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. March, nor lower, we have the spot where cuttings of plants form callosities, and finally emit roots. It is here also that seeds begin their work, and at this point most plants form their callus, and dip their root into the earth and raise their cotyledons into the air, as accurately as the mariner’s compass holds to the Pole. The Vine is but a trailing shrub, and does little in the way of making itself into a tree, but any one seeing its fleece of leaves with all their hairs and points, would conclude that if there were any electricity about, such a plant would have its share. Now when the leaves have been reduced in number by pruning in winter, and stopping in summer, they have got to be six times the size of the normal leaf, and the size and quality of the fruit have been generally increased, like those of the leaf ; but this has only been attained after a careful study of the wants of the Vine, and strict attention to having those wants supplied. Yet after all the experiences of the ages gone by, and the searching inquiries of our own time into the laws that govern the growing of prize grapes, it must be confessed that we often see the splendid effect without being able to seize upon the cause. I should reckon an amateur mad who should prune his Vines as Crawshay did his, but that gentleman surpassed his contemporaries in grape-growing. Choice Vines, inarched upon free-growing stocks, have been tried with good effect ; and if we might argue from the Eose when worked, and grown upon its own roots, there should be a grand hitch here in the right direction ; but an exhibitor comes forward and puts to silence all such notions by showing the finest grapes ever seen, grown on Vines raised from eyes, and consequently on their own roots. The distance of the foliage from the glass is important. I have found the practice of the best growers to be to allow a space of 16 in. from the glass to the Vine when tied to the trellis ; but a Vine of Stillwell’s Sweetwater would not set its fruit at that distance, though it sets freely when dropped half a yard further down. These items puzzle young gardeners and amateurs, and when even old men are asked why things are so, it is not easy to render a reason. — Alex. Forsyth, Salford. _ THE MACAETNEY EOSE FOE WALLS, Etc. HERE will be but few, if any, gardeners, excepting they be very juvenile, who have not some distinct recollection of the Macartney Eose as having been met with in some old-fashioned garden, where it was cherished and valued greatly, ere the great advance now apparent in the quality and quantity of Roses was made. Their knowledge of it may, however, be associated in some instances with short, dense, twiggy bushes, giving them the idea that such was its habit, and that as such it is now unsuited for culture, in comparison with others of greater perfection as regards the blossoms, and greater profusion as regards growth, beautiful and much admired as were its nearly evergreen leaves. Having lately put its capacity of growth to the test, I am prepared to say that, as regards vigorous growth it falls behind very few. Three years ago it was chosen as an old acquaintance unforgotten, to adorn an east wall, and in connection with 1S75. ] EUCHARIS AMAZONICA. 67 some of the most telling and effective of modern adaptations. The result has been most satisfactory. Already has a plant reached the coping of a twelve-feet wall, and in the case of one strong shoot lateral branches have spread abroad, so as effectually to cover its allotted space. The possession of this vigorous habit, combined with its other qualities, render it all that could be desired, the evergreen leaves, so thick and abundant, and so lucid on their surface, being ennobled by the long pointed white bloom-buds, and the telling and lasting full-blown Boses ! By-and-by, as time consolidates its growth, a permanent small-twig garniture will be afforded by it, needing little attention beyond the occasional removal of decayed blossoms and a slight annual pruning, whilst in return it will commence to flower early in June — as early, being against a wall, as any other sort, while it will almost, if not quite, merit the chanting over its fallen petals of the sentimental requiem, — “ ’Tis the last rose of summer,” as it blooms sometimes well on into December. — William E alley, Valentines. EUCHAEXS AMAZONICA. YT (Tv E find this plant (see p. 12) to bloom very freely here under the follow¬ ing treatment, and most of our plants have bloomed three times within twelve months. The whole of them, fifteen in number, were in flower in July, August, and September, each plant having from five to twelve spikes of blossom. In October, November, and December we had from two to four plants in bloom, with from four to ten spikes on each plant, this being the second crop of flowers from them ; and others are now (January 11) with flower-spikes well above the foliage, which will be opening their flowers in about ten days, this also being the second crop of bloom. About March and April we get three or four spikes to most of the plants as a third crop. After this, we treat them as follows : — We supply them rather sparingly with water for about three weeks ; then turn them out of their pots, take all the old soil from them, and repot them in the same pots, using equal parts fibry peat and yellow loam, with a liberal addition of sharp sand. The drainage should be ample : one-fourth the depth of the pot should be filled with crocks for this purpose, and these covered over with a layer of fibry material. Pot moderately firmly, and place the plants in a stove temperature of from 70° to 75° by day, ranging 10° lower at night. Water carefully, and syringe freely night and morning ; as soon as they have got well hold of the new soil, give liquid manure twice a week. Treat the plants in this way until the middle or end of June, according to the time at which they are started into growth. If it is desired to have some of the plants in bloom in July or August, the treatment above described should be continued. If any are to be kept for succession, they must be removed to a cooler house, and must be brought into a higher temperature to bring them into bloom at intervals as required. If the above directions are carried out, I am certain they will prove successful, as this practice has been followed here for eight years with the same unvarying success. — Henry Chilman, Somerley Gardens. a 2 68 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOQIST. [ March, GARDEN GOSSIP. |T this season it may be useful, writes Mr. Earley, to advise all who desire a fine large Dwarf French Bean to procure, where they can insure getting it true, the variety known as the Canadian Wonder. They may rely, he adds, upon its being not only a very fine long-podded variety, but also an abundant bearer, of about medium, or rather more than medium-sized growth. - ffi R. W. E. Rendle informs us that he has now adapted his System of Glazing to curvilinear roofs; and that the roof of the new winter garden to be established at Westminster, is to be constructed in this manner. - ffi. Huber, of Nice, offers a new Pelargonium which he calls Pelargonium pseudo-zonale , and which he regards as forming a new type in this already greatly varied genus. It is of rapid growth, with elongated decumbent branches, glabrous leaves, and umbels of lively red flowers. - @The Sarrcicenia purpurea has now been growing out-of-doors for some years in an artificial bog in the Glasnevin Botanic Gardens. This winter the water surrounding it has been completely frozen, and it has since been nearly submerged, but still it looks quite frosli and hale and happy. It is evidently one of the hardiest of hardy plants. - ®he fine old Fuchsia Riccartoni had its origin at Riccarton, the seat of Sir Wm. Gibson Craig, Bart., near Edinburgh. Its name has no connection with Riccarton, near Kilmarnock, as has been supposed. It was raised from seed of globosa by the late Mr. Young, when gardenor at Riccarton, betwixt the years 1830 and 1835. It is quite hardy on the east and west coasts of Scotland. - ££he Ranunculus Ficaria calthifolius is a very fine early spring¬ flowering herbaceous plant, and quite uncommon. It is much stronger-growing than our wild species, the common Pile wort, throwing erect large pale green leaves without markings, some on stout stems with the flowers, which latter are of proportionate sizo, and of a brilliant yellow. Many botanists would consider it worth specific distinction. It is a native of the Mediterranean region. - 0N the basis of numerous analyses of many varieties of Coal from different localities, it is again asserted that Coal Ashes exert a beneficial effect on land, not only by their mechanical action on some soils, but also on account of their mineral ingredients, a ton of ashes containing about 33 lb. of phosphoric acid, besides sulphate of potash and alkali. - - ^t Gunnersbury Park, near London, the Hardiness of Lapageria rosea alba has been put to a severe test during the present winter, a vigorous shoot from a plant growing along the roof of a small span-roofed house having thrust itself through an opening in the woodwork. Though on an open north aspect, the shoot continues as fresh and healthy as those inside the house. - Some time since, writes Mr. Johnson of Belfast, I planted some Birches, Betula alba , in the foreground of a garden view, and to each of them I put one Jasminum nudiflorum , and one Lonicerci brachypoda ciureo-reticulata. These now form a protty foature 10 ft. high, the golden flowers in winter and golden loavos in summor having a very pleasing effect. - £n the Revue Ilorlicole a method of Budding Gooseberries practised by 1875. ] GARDEN GOSSIP. GO MM. Croux and Sons, nurserymen, of Sceaux, is described. These cultivators have trained a number of plants of Ribes pcilmatum to a single stem, and budded this as a stock with Gooseberries and Currants of various colours and forms. The result proves to bo both curious and ornamental. - 2The Lucombe Oak, Quercus Cerris subperennis , deserves to be more frequently planted, for after the cold of last December its foliage looks as cheerful as at the beginning of autumn. The leaves are of a bright glossy green, and otherwise like the ordinary Q. Cerris, though perhaps a trifle thicker. There is a fine specimen of it at Kew, in the “ Sion Vista,” just within the Botanic Garden. - 2The Helianthus globosus fistu- losus is a new double Sunflower, whose chief peculiarity consists in the globose form and large size of its flower-heads, which are sometimes said to measure a foot in diameter. They are of a bright saffron- colour, freely produced, and well elevated above the leaves. We have to thank Messrs. Sutton and Sons, of Reading, for the use of the annexed woodcut. — CORDEROY, of Didcot, has recently sent to the Gardeners’ Chronicle some specimens of Mistleto parasitic on itself. The young seedlings have attached themselves to the parent branches just in tlio same way that they usually do to branches of the Lime, or any other tree. Air. Corderoy mentions also a variegated form, produced as a sport, and alludes to other variations in habit. - Amongst the specimens of IV ellingtonia gigantea growing near the great conservatory at Chatsworth, is one Helianthus globosus fistulosus. which might well bear the name of pendula. We have noticed it on different occasions as being very distinct. It is paler in colour than the other Wellingtonias of the ordinary form, which grow near to it, and has all the smaller spray most gracefully drooping. The variety appears to be well worth perpetuating, if, as would probably be tho case, plants from cuttings would assume the same habit. - ^iie Effect of Transplantation in averting Damage by Frost has been well illustrated by a case which occurred at Feltliam, where a quarter of an acre of ground was sown last spring with scarlet Queen Stock, with the intention that tho plants, duly thinned, should remain to flower. The thinnings were planted out during the summer upon the ground close by, and grew into strong plants, though not so large as those that remained in the seed-bed. Over three-fourths of the untransplanted ones are now entirely killed, whilst of those transplanted scarcely one is injured. - £n Paris, different kinds of Leaves are extensively used for Garnishing Purposes. They consist of Ferns, Chestnuts, Lilacs, Maples, Nuts, Elms, Poplars, and especially of the Vine, and are used for decorative purposes, garnishing dishes, and tho like. Largo quantities of Bramble-loaves are also used, in spito of their prickles, during the winter season, when they are still to be found in the woods noar Paris. The leaves are collected into little packots, slightly pressed, and sold by hundreds of thousands in tho markets. 70 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, - 31 find, writes Mr. Johnson, of the Belfast Botanic Garden, Lupinus arboreus to be one of the best of Seaside shrubs. In some ground-work which I had in hand, on rocks that formed a small promontory, I found it to be necessary to undulate the ground in order to secure protection for many plants, but Lupinus arboreus made good growth, produced its golden flowers in abundance, and firmly withstood the keenest blasts of the elements in the most exposed positions. It likewise produced seeds, and hundreds of plants came up around, without any other care but that of letting them alone. - ©he Times states, in reference to Toughened Glass , that when glass is heated to redness, and kept at that temperature for a considerable time, its physical properties are changed in a remarkable manner ; it becomes opaque or feebly translucent, much harder and tougher, and somewhat like porcelain in appoaranco. This change is termed ‘ devitrification.’ M. Siemens has now discovered that when glass is heated to redness and then cooled or annealed in oil, its toughness is greatly increased, or, what is equivalent, its fragility is greatly diminished, while its transparency remains the same. Now that glass is so much used in gardens, this may prove an important discovery for horticulturists. - ©he value of Peruvian Guano as a manure is well known, and whether employed in the dry or liquid state, there are scarcely any fruits, flowers, or vegetables to which it may not be beneficially applied, if used with proper caution. One ounce per square yard will form a safe and highly beneficial dressing to all kitchen-garden crops, as well as to grass lawns, the greenness and vigour of which it will greatly improve if applied (mixed with fine soil) in moist weather about May. Flower¬ ing plants are most benefited by it when their flower-buds are expanding. As a liquid manure for plants in the open ground, 1 oz. to a gallon of water is sufficient ; for pot plants, if oz. to the gallon. That sold by Mr. S. Hawley, of Forest Lane, and which is warranted genuine, has been highly spoken of. A trustworthy source whence to obtain manures of this sort is worth noting. It is supplied with full directions for use. - ©me great conservatory at Chatsworth is famous during the autumn and winter months for its grand display of Epiphyllums of the truncatum type. Numerous monstrous hanging baskets filled with these elegant plants are sus¬ pended from the rafters ; and one side-bench, the entire length of the building, is almost wholly occupied by them. The baskets are probably a yard in diameter, and covered at top and bottom with the Epiphyllum, so that in the blooming season they are quite enveloped in flowers. Amongst the most striking varieties grown are E. violaceum grandiflorum , E. Rucker ianum , E. spectabile superbum , and E. Bridgesianum. The varieties of this species of Epiphyllum maybe employed in numerous ways for decorative purposes. Thus at Knowsley we saw tufts worked on the Pereskia, ornamenting the roof of a plant stove. The masses of flower were very effective, while the Pereskia-stem was not at all prominent. - ©he following plan for obtaining Early Forced Asparagus is adopted by Mr. Tegg, in the gardens at Bearwood. In October, a deep bed, fenced with ordi¬ nary Hazel or Ash hurdles, is formed in an early vinery, and in this is placed a mass of fermenting material, such as leaves and dung, in about equal proportions ; the bed is surfaced over with rotten dung, and planted with good roots so thickly that they overlap each other. A bottom-heat of from 50° to 55° is sufficient. To insure highly-flavoured produce, it is necessary that the temperature of the air be lowered as much as can be afforded, as soon as the stems fairly break through the soil. Three inches of soil, or thereabouts, is sufficient to produce shoots of a nice green colour. - Ht is well known that Early Winter Broccoli often suffers severely from the effects of frost, and sometimes whole plantations become irremediably injured. One plan of preserving the Broccoli is to pull them up by the roots as soon as they turn-in ready for uso, and to suspend them from the roof in an airy shod till wanted. By adopting this moans they are preserved from injury from frost, or from rotting through exposure to heavy and continuous rains ; and they remain fit for table uso for eight or ton weeks. 1875.] GARDEN GOSSIP. 71 - Turing the past autumn we saw at Blythefield a very remarkable illustration of the Effect of Close Pruning on the constitution of a plant, as com¬ pared with a free extension of growth. In one part of the pleasure-grounds was a Hornbeam hedge of considerable age, and about 8 ft. high, presenting the usual appearance of a hedge of this kind, the individual trees bearing a multitude of slender twigs. From some cause or other the end tree of this line of Hornbeans had been allowed to grow unmolested, and while the constantly pruned plants were no thicker than one’s wrist, the freely grown tree was a fine umbrageous specimen with a stout trunk, and a head at least 40 ft. high. It formed a capital illustration of the truth, that constant repression is exhausting, and the accidental juxtaposition of the hedge and the tree, brought out strongly the different effects of the two systems of pruning. - t^HE Benanthera coccinea growing in the Conservatory at CLatsworth has not been out of blossom for four years, and that the stems had blossomed abundantly the panicles (past and present) attached to them bear evidence. The plant has several stems, which grow up to a considerable height. It appears to have a decided preference for growing on Birch poles, and in the case referred to the roots have in consequence acquired great vigour. - fftR. Brehaut remarks that his crop of early Potatos under glass has been completely saved by the use of newspapers spread over the haulm during the late severe weather, while ' that of his neighbours without this pro¬ tection has been lost. The extent of defence afforded by Paper Protectors is almost unknown as yet. The newspapers were suffered to remain on during the succeeding sunshine, so as to avert sudden changes of temperature. Where additional protect'on is needed, it would be easy to paste together any convenient numbor of newspapers, and fold the edges over twine, (as a boy does for his kite), and these, suspended some inches above the others spread over the haulm, would oncloso between the layers enough fixed air to protect anything. - She Vriesici regina , a fine Bromeliaceous plant, of which a figure is given in a recent number of the Gardeners' Chronicle , flowered for the first time in Europe last summer, in the Emperor of Austria’s private garden at Vienna. Professor Morren, the learned investigator of the Bromeliacoai, and whose collection of living plants is, we believe, the most numerous in point of species of any that now exists, regards this as being the same as Lemaire’s Vriesia Glazioucina. The leaves are about 4 ft. in length and 7 in. broad, and the flower-stalk 7 ft. high, the flowers being arranged in two-ranked curved spikes, disposed in a branched panicle, and springing from the axis of rose-coloured bracts. The flowers are white, and have a strong perfume of jasmine. The plant is a native of Rio Janeiro, where it grows in the clefts of the rocks, flowering from October to December. - J^ome time since, Professor Karl Koch called attention to a New Varie¬ gated Plane ( Platanus orientalis Bosenthalii ), which he had seen in Mr. Rosenthal’s Nursery in Vienna. u True,” he says, “ we have had a variegated Plane in cultiva¬ tion for some years, but it is far inferior in point of beauty to the one in question, being of a per¬ manently shrubby habit, and possibly belonging to Platanus cuneata, Willd.,a species I found on my second trip to the Caucasus, in 1 844, growing on the banks of rivers and rivulets on the south-eastern slopes. The unequally five-lobed leaves, too, remain small, barely attaining 4 in. in length ; and the variegation consists of yellowish-white patches or stains, most abundant near the circumference. Of Rosenthal’s Variegated Plane, which is a variety of the Oriental, only small, shrubby specimens were seen, but should it prove to retain its variegation in the adult stage, we have here one of the most beautiful ornamental trees imaginable. It has ample leaves, usually somewhat broader than long, its broadest diameter reaching about 10 in., whilst from the top of the petiolo to the opposite extremity of the blade it is only about 7 in. ; it has an abrupt base, each half of the blade forming a right angle with the petiolo. The agreeably conspicuous yellowish-white markings cover by far the greater portion of tho surface ; but tho white is interspersed with green streaks.” - Uarieties of different kinds of fruit often get a bad name in conse¬ quence of adverse treatment, and this is tlie case with certain Unpopular Grapes , 72 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, such as the White Nice and Raisin cle Calahre, both being robust growers, pro¬ ducing large bundles, but often of inferior quality. Mr. Johnston, of Glamis, in a note published in the Gardeners* Chronicle, relates the case of a proprietor who had been prejudiced against these Grapes by his friends, and gave his gardener orders to root them out, and fill their places with something more worthy. Instead of uprooting all at once, the gardener adopted the better plan of grafting, wThile be allowed the old Vines to carry their usual crop. On a special occasion, when his employer had several distinguished guests, he sent in a hand¬ some cluster of the Raisin cle Calabre, which was pronounced so excellent that the gardener had to bo called to tell all about it, the proprietor supposing it was a new Grape. When the mystery was unveiled, the gardener got orders to retain every one of the old Vines. Owing to the very robust habit of these Vines, and the large bunches they bear, thoy must have the full benefit of a long summer by being forced early, and subjected to a tropical atmosphere in order to enable them to thoroughly mature their crops and wood. Circumstances being favourable, they will take on a finish equal to a Bucklancl Sweetwater, and are infinitely better in quality, as w*ell as being excellent keepers. The Earl of Strathmore, who is quite a connoisseur in Grapes, pronounced the White Nice, grown at Glamis this season, where bunches weighing 141b. and 171b. respectively, coloured like gold, have been produced, to be excellent. - ^Hr. Thomas Burnett, gardener to Sir Sydney H. Waterlow, Fairside House, Highgate, died on January 15, aged 46 years. Mr. Burnett at an early age became head gardener at Ashby Court, Tiverton ; he subsequently filled other prominent places, amongst them Lord Boston’s, near Slough; Baynard’s Park, Surrey; Downshire House, Roehampton ; Peterborough House, Fulham, where in a short time he grow up as fine a collection of Orchids as has been seen round London for many years ; and finally, was engaged at Fairside House. - ^Hr. Thomas Weaver, gardener to the Rev. The Warden, Winchester College, died suddenly on January 21, in his 72nd year. Mr. Weaver was thoroughly practical and most persevering in the attainment of general knowledge, as well as that which might be termed professional. Nearly half a century ago he was with the late Mr. Baxter at the Oxford Botanic Garden, and it is probable that while there ho acquired a taste for British Botany, which to the end of his days wras a source of great pleasure to him. His services wore highly valued by the late and present Wardens, both of whom ho had the honour of serving during the forty years and upwards in which he had charge of the College gardens. - fHu. W. R. Bragg, of Slongli, died on February 4, in bis 70tb year. Though apprenticed to the gardening profession, he soon gave it up, and eventually became a licensed victualler at Slough ; but his early love for flowers remained, and he continued to be a successful cultivator of Pinks, Carnations and Picotoes, Pansies, Dahlias, Hollyhocks, and Sweet Williams. In 1840 he won at Birmingham a £20 cup offered for Dahlias. He had of late years combined the business of florist with that of innkeeper, and was an occasional exhibitor at the London meeting!?. As one of the old school of floral enthusiasts, Mr. Bragg will bo remembered by many as a genial fellow-worker. - -$j& R. Benjamin Fielders died at Enfield, after a short illness, on February 7, aged 82. Some thirty or forty years ago, when gardener to Mrs. W. Linwood, of Enfield, in whose service he remained for 25 years, he was a man of mark at the London shows, being a successful exhibitor of orchids, grapes, pines, &c. He subsequently entered the service of the late Mrs. Child, and the late Alderman Challis. Ho was a talented and to tlio last a devoted horticulturist. - Hady Cullum, of Hardwicke House, Bury St. Edmund’s, died, rather suddenly, of paralysis, on February 17. She was a highly accomplished horti¬ culturist, devoting on most days an hour or two to her garden. It is remarkable that her last act, in her garden, was to select a site for planting some Cypress-trees ! J.L. Macfarlane, del. • Ckromo Or. Severeyn Brussels ** 1875. ] INFLUENCE OF THE SCION UPON THE STOCK. rro /O TEA ROSE CATHERINE MERMET. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. jN a recent election of Eoses, Catherine Mermet — a figure of which, is given on the accompanying plate — was placed by a large majority of electors amongst the best twelve Eoses known ; and that it is one of the very finest varieties we have, there can be no sort of doubt. Probably, if all the good qualities it possesses are taken into consideration, it will be acknowleged to be the best of all the Teas. It is large, of the finest form, constant, and floriferous. As a pot plant it is a good healthy grower, and makes sufficiently strong though, not large wood. Probably it would be a more robust grower in the open, budded on the briar, which suits most Teas better than any other stock. Though the blooms vary more or less in depth of colour, the prevailing tint is flesh-coloured rose, with a dash of yellowish-buff, but this tint is not generally so deep as it appears in the illustration. On the whole, Catherine Mermet is, as the catalogues say, a u superb ” Eose, and ought to be in the most choice collection. There have been several fine additions to the tea-scented section within the last two or three years. The cream of these are probably comprised in the fol¬ lowing: — Amcizone, Anna Ollivier , Catherine Mermet , Cheshunt Hybrid, Duchess of Edinburgh , Madame Berat'd, Madame Camille , and Madame Francois Janin. Amazon does not seem to be much known, but it is a good and distinct flower, with a long pointed bud, which opens well, and is fine bright clear yellow in colour. It is a good healthy grower as a pot rose, and flowers freely. Anna Ollivier is a first- rate flower, of good size ; the petals are creamy-white, their base deep rose ; it is most distinct and pleasing, and is a healthy grower. Cheshunt Hybrid and Duchess of Edinburgh are dark red Teas ; the first has the better form, the Duchess is rather brighter in colour, but both are good and valuable additions to the Tea section. Madame Berard may be shortly described as an improved Gloire de Dijon, which is not saying a little in her favour. Madame Camille is sometimes extremely fine, but it is a somewhat uncer¬ tain variety. If it could be always depended on, it would run Catherine Mermet very close. Perhaps one of the most distinct new Tea Eoses we have had for some time is Madame F. Janin , a small rose indeed, but most beautiful. In colour it is deep orange-yellow, inclined to coppery ; in habit it is robust and healthy, and it is most floriferous. As a button-hole rose it is facile princeps. — E. B. Postans. INFLUENCE OF THE SCION UPON THE STOCK. CM WO plants of Abutilon Due de Malabo ff, which were raised from seed, and had grown some 8 ft. or 9 ft. in height, were considered to be suitable f stocks, to make into standards, for engrafting the weak-growing, pendulous A butilonvexillarium \inesapotamicuin\ igneum upon. The grafts, which were put on at about 6 ft. from the ground, took readily, and some shoots were left on the 3rd series. — VIII. h 74 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, stock, in order to assist to draw up the sap until the grafts became more fully estab¬ lished, when it was intended to cut them away. Soon after growth commenced, however, some faint signs of variegation became apparent, and the shoots were allowed to remain. The result is, that the whole of the shoots which have broken out near to the grafts have become beautifully spotted, blotched and barred with yellow, the markings being similar to those which occur in the scion. The two forms growing together, and presenting such a wide contrast in the size and outline of their leaves, are very attractive and ornamental. These plants have now been established for upwards of ' twelve months, and have formed good round heads. Plants treated in this manner will have a good effect through the summer and autumn months, either placed in sub-tropical beds, or used as single plants in sheltered places on the turf. — J. Webster, Gordon Castle. THE PREMATURE DROPPING OF PEACH AND NECTARINE BLOSSOMS. HAT Peach and Nectarine blossoms not unfrequently fall prematurely will Aife/ readily be admitted by most horticulturists who have had much to do with f their culture under glass. It is not always easy, often very difficult, to account for this in a satisfactory manner. In trying to discover the causes, for there are many, we should never forget that, by placing Peach and Nectarine trees under glass, we remove them beyond the reach of natural pheno¬ mena necessary for their very existence, and that, consequently, their numerous wants must be artificially supplied, success or failure in their culture depending on whether this is intelligently done or otherwise. It is not my intention at present to enter into any lengthened details as to their general management, but simply and very shortly to point out what I believe to be some of the causes which lead to the premature dropping of Peach and Nectarine blossoms, and to suggest some remedies. Much of the success of Peach and Nectarine culture depends on the forma¬ tion of the border in which they are planted. In some favoured localities, where an open, dry subsoil exists, little requires to be done. Where, however, the subsoil is retentive, wet, and cold, or where oxide of iron or other poisonous ingredients abound, it is always safe to concrete about 3 ft. 6 in. deep. Allow a few inches of fall to the outside ; place on the concrete parallel rows of 3-in. tile pipes, about 4 ft. asunder, connecting them with a drain outside the border, to run off the superfluous water ; cover the concrete with about 6 in. of broken stones, brick-bats, clinkers, or similar material ; place on these 2 ft. or 3 ft. of good hazelly turfy loam, mixed with half-inch bones, in the proportion of half a ton to an ordinary-sized peach-house — say about 30 ft. in length ; and then you have a border which, if the general management is good, will not fail to set and mature heavy crops of fine fruit. I would here remark that, when duo attention has been paid to tho selection 1875.] THE PREMATURE DROPPING OF PEACH AND NECTARINE BLOSSOMS. 75 of the soil, and to the proper formation of the border, and when the general management has been good, the blossoms of Peaches and Nectarines are not liable to drop prematurely, after the trees get into a bearing state, until the soil i becomes partially exhausted. When this occurs, artificial manures should be applied in a liquid state, in order to enable the trees to thoroughly swell and mature heavy crops of fruit, as well as to form and properly develop and mature the flower-buds for the following season. Imperfectly ripened wood has much to do with the premature dropping of the flowers. This is brought about by numerous causes, such as imperfectly drained and consequently cold borders, the insufficient application of heat in the autumn, &c. Young trees for a few years after being planted in fresh soil, in consequence of their excessive vigour, require much attention in regulating and moderating their growth by judicious pinching, and should get sufficient heat to thoroughly ripen the young wood in the autumn. Inattention to this is the reason why flower-buds are so often weakly and small in size on the most robust and healthy young trees, and so often drop without setting their fruit. Another frequent cause of this evil is allowing the trees during the summer or autumn to get too dry at the roots, or to be surrounded by too dry an atmo¬ sphere ; in the latter case, the red-spider is sure to commence operations on the foliage, which they will soon destroy unless eradicated by the free use of sulphur and the syringe ; while liberal waterings at the roots must also be given. I believe dryness at the roots has more to do with generating red-spider than all the other causes put together ; for unless the foliage is preserved in full health till it ripens and falls naturally the flower-buds must be imperfectly matured, and con¬ sequently liable to drop without performing their proper functions. Over-cropping, even where the vigour of the tree is very great, is one of the rocks ahead which amateurs not unfrequently come in contact with. One year may be marked by the appearance of an extraordinary crop, which they will not thin sufficiently ; the prospects are wonderful about the time they are half-grown — friends are invited to come and see them, and great results freely talked about ; but as they approach maturity less is said about them, as they prove to be alike deficient in size and flavour. The next year the crop is a failure, or nearly so, and dissatisfaction and disappointment follow. The remedy is simple : be con¬ tent with moderate crops. Bad or exhausted soil is another cause of the flowers falling prematurely. The Peach and Nectarine will doubtless thrive in a variety of soils. They often do very well in a light loam, a medium, or even a heavy loam, preferring a medium loam. However good the soil may originally have been, in course of time it becomes so far exhausted, that there is no possibility of producing first-class fruit without renewing or partly renewing the border. Artificial manures doubtless tend to prolong the period over which a border will last, and when judiciously applied assist largely in increasing the quantity of fruit a tree will mature. When the soil and subsoil are particularly favourable for the growth of Peach and Nectarine h 2 76 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, trees, a very long period may intervene before the soil becomes exhausted ; but this is the exception, not the rule. In general, it will be advisable to renew the soil at the end of from twelve to eighteen years. It does not pay to grow fruit of any kind under glass unless skilfully managed, and one of the most im¬ portant points is the border, which should always be kept in good order, otherwise success can only be partial, however well all the other conditions may be attended to. On a recent occasion I had to deal with a fine old Barrington Peach tree, which nearly occupied the roof of a good-sized house. For many years it set enormous quantities of fruit, which were always thinned so as to leave a large crop, but not beyond what the strength of the tree could thoroughly finish. For the last two years it has scarcely shown its former vigour, one side particularly being much less vigorous than the other. No gum or other unhealthy appearance is to be seen, on either the old or young wood ; indeed there is little difference to be observed from what it formerly was, with this exception that the last year’s growths are not so strong and are much less plump than they have usually been — a condition most noticeable on the weaker side of the tree. Last year many of the flowers dropped without setting on this weak side ; this year they are doing the same, being very sparse and weak. Some time ago, I was induced to examine the roots on the side of the tree where the vigour had so much decreased, and I found them in a dark-coloured loam, many of them decayed, and altogether in a bad state. I had them cut back to where they were fresh ; the exhausted soil was renewed, and replaced with fine turfy loam, and I have no doubt the weak side of the tree will soon recover. The roots on the other side are in a fine hazelly loam, which is now somewhat exhausted, and will require to be renewed in a year or two, after the roots on the other side are fully established in the fresh soil. It will be observed that in this case, the dark-coloured and inferior loam became first exhausted, telling unfavourably on the health of the whole tree, but particularly on the side where it wTas placed. Artificial manures were in this case applied, but they could no longer sustain the vigour of the tree. I give this illustration to show how much Peach and Nectarine trees grown under glass are dependent on the soil in which they are planted being healthy, as otherwise no skill will induce them to produce large crops of fine fruit ; and no wonder, considering the weight of fruit that a full-sized tree will carry for years in succession, so long as the proper food under favourable conditions is placed within its reach. Inattention to properly ventilating Peacli-houses when the trees are in flower, as also wet dark cloudy weather, often prevents their setting freely, even when the flowers are fully matured. This can be remedied to a large extent by using as much fire-lieat daily as will dry the atmosphere of the house, and allow of a moderate amount of ventilation, sufficient to cause a free circulation of air around the trees. 1875. ] groom’s PRINCESS ROYAL PEAR. 77 Peacli and Nectarine trees should not be tied to a stiff trellis, connected every few feet with the roof or back wall, but should have the trellis so fitted up as only to be connected with the top and bottom of the roof or back wall, and at the ends. The result is a trellis that when struck will freely vibrate, shaking every flower, and dispersing the pollen very much in the same way as a breeze of wind does when it strikes a tree growing in its natural state out-of-doors. On the other hand, Peach and Nectarine flowers often hang too long without falling. They appear to have performed their functions ; the embryo fruit begins to swell, but makes little progress ; the flowers remain attached to the fruit for weeks in succession ; many of the fruits indeed grow to be as large as peas, and not a few considerably larger, but drop off or cease swelling long before the stoning process commences. Some varieties are more liable to this than others, but I presume imperfect impregnation is the principal, if not the only cause ; and there¬ fore, considering their artificial position, every means should be used to enable them to perform this important function.-— Archibald Fowler, Castle Kennedy , Stranraer. GROOM’S PRINCESS ROYAL, alias MATTHEWS’ ELIZA PEAR. / j SOME years back, a friend who is a good judge of fruit sent me some scions of this Pear, which I grafted on an established standard, but I paid little fheed of the circumstance until I found them bearing excellent fruit along with other kinds on the same tree, Except in one instance, I have not 78 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ Apbil, seen the Eliza Pear noticed in catalogues, and therefore I conclude it is not so well known as it deserves to be. The Eliza Pear [also called Groom's Princess Royal] re¬ sembles the Easter Beurre in size and shape, with a similar shank, but a rather closer eye or crown. The prevailing colour is greenish-gray, without russet on the sunny side. In flavour, the Eliza excels the Easter Beurre. It ripens about the middle or end of January, when some of the late kinds of Pears, though highly spoken of, are often dry and corky, and remain so until they decay ; but after several seasons’ trial, I have never found the Eliza to be so. Consequently, be it old or new, it is worthy of notice, in consequence of its being so hardy and productive in situations where the most of the late good kinds of Pears would be worthless. The drawing shows the usual size of the fruit as it grows here, from the top of a standard tree about 16 ft. high. — J. Wighton, Cossey Park. DENDROBIUM DEVONIANUM. iMONGST the many fine Orchids we now have in cultivation, there are few, if any, that surpass this, if we take into account its elegant drooping habit, its exquisite combination of colour, the wonderful moss¬ like fringe that margins the labellum of the flower, and its agreeably aromatic perfume. Altogether it is one of the most desirable of plants, yet, somehow or other, even amongst collections of Orchids that are generally well grown, this is rarely met with in good condition. Very often, like numbers of other plants of this singular family, it appears to do well for a time, and then, without any apparent cause, gets into bad health, and ultimately dies out. This, I think, is traceable more to defects in its management than to any peculiar delicacy of constitution. This Dendrobium Devonianum is found indigenous in the comparatively cool, but very moist district of Khoseea. Now when plants from such a climate as this are submitted to the strong heat in which the Vandas , Saccolabiums , and other denizens of hot, low countries are grown, they go on for a time, until their constitution becomes so impaired by over-excitement that they die of sheer exhaustion. That such treatment has been and yet is the cause of this and many other fine things getting the character of being difficult to manage, I have no doubt ; whereas if they met with more rational usage there would be no diffi¬ culty in managing them satisfactorily. It is a plant that cannot bear to have too much root-room, yet it does not generally succeed well on a block of wood, which apparently does not afford it enough sustenance. I find a moderate-sized pot, well drained, with a mixture of the best fibrous peat, all the earthy particles of which have been sifted out, and one-fourth small lumps of charcoal, with a little sphagnum added to it, to grow the plant well ; but, as will be seen by what I have already said, I look more to the temperature in which it is grown than to the material in which it is potted. The house in which I have grown it was occupied by Cattleyas , Lcelias , and similar plants, that did not receive through the growing season a higher temperature in the night 1875. ] LATE PEARS. 79 than 60° or 65°, unless when the weather was such as to raise it above this, with a day heat as near 70° to 75° as could be maintained, giving it plenty of water. In the winter it was kept in the same house, where the night temperature was 50°, or often a degree or two lower, not giving the plant a drop of water for four months, or until it began to grow, when just enough was given for about six weeks to slightly damp the material in which the roots were, after which more was applied, to assist both growth and flower. But to succeed with it, there are several other matters that must be scrupu¬ lously attended to. First, the leaves whilst young, and as they are formed all through the growing season, must never, even for an hour, be exposed to the sun ; their thin delicate texture cannot bear it. For this reason I always had two or three wire bows fixed to the pot, over the young growth, on which was kept con¬ tinually a piece of thin scrim, in addition to the usual scrim blinds which were in use on the house. Again, the leaves cannot bear the fumes of tobacco, con¬ sequently, whenever the house was fumigated, the plants of this Dendrobe, with a few other things equally impatient of tobacco-smoke, were always removed. The plant is also very liable to be attacked by the yellow thrips, so injurious to orchids, getting into the young leaves, and if left undisturbed even for a short time, it will quickly destroy the leading leaves, after which the bulbs will not make fur¬ ther progress. To keep this insect down, I used every morning through the growing' season to syringe some water right into the apex, which was a sure preventive. By this means, I have grown a plant on for a score of years, it getting each year stronger, so much so that latterly it frequently pushed four flowers at a joint, and over sixty from a single stem. — T. Baines, Southgate , N, LATE PEAKS. JrllSn-R. SAUL’S list of new late Pears (p. 36) must be very valuable to many Pear-growers, especially in those cases where a supply is wanted for the dessert till the latest possible period. There are generally so many of the fine late autumn sorts planted, that others which would keep up a succession through the winter and spring months are apt to be neglected. I have grown some of the new late varieties described by Mr. Saul, and can endorse what he says about their habits and late-keeping qualities. In addition, I have grown some new late sorts not mentioned by him, which, I believe, will be found acquisitions, namely : — Madame Millet , a handsome delicious melting late Pear, of the shape of Easter Beurre, and requiring a wall in a cold climate ; Heine des Tardives , a medium-sized melting variety, also requiring a wall, and keeping well till May ; Doyenne d’Alenqon , a delicious melting late Pear, which grows well as a bush or pyramid on the quince stock, and is in season from February till May. Amongst late Pears better known, Josephine de M alines is a variety of a delicious flavour ; its season is from January till April, and it bears well as a bush on the quince stock, Hacon’s Incomparable , a large round variety, is very good 80 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, and melting this season with me ; its season being from February till March. Ne 'plus Meuris , although an ugly-looking sort, keeps well till March and April, . and is then a valuable melting Pear. Susette de Bavay is a remarkably great bearer on the Pear stock, and is worthy of a wall, for its late-keeping qualities and good flavour. The old favourite, Beurre Rctnce , is not planted so much as it ought to be for its size and flavour, and for keeping, as it often does, to May and June. Leon le Clerc de Laval is the very latest sort with me, but it is often not melting ; I have specimens of it in the fruit-room here of the growth of 1873, and they are yet as hard as stones. Of that valuable late culinary Apple, the Alfriston , I have likewise of the same season’s growth some specimens left, quite good, and fit for use. The French Oral) is another Apple that keeps quite sound for two years in a good fruit-room. — William Tillery, Welbech. FUCHSIA CORYMBIFLORA. ®HIS grand old late summer-flowering species, with its noble foliage, bold growth, and large and striking corymbs of drooping flowers, is so well f worthy of general cultivation, and is so handsome as a conservatory plant during the autumn months, that it is a real pity it is so little grown. This, and the equally useful, though less aristocratic-looking, Fuchsia fulgens , have had to give place to the florists’ varieties, as they are termed, and it is unfortunate in many respects that it is so, as they are each of them a marked instance of individuality of character. I have bloomed in my greenhouse a plant of a pale- coloured form of F. corymbiflora , named virginedis , in which the tube is almost white, the sepals deep pink, and the corolla rich deep carmine. The corymb of flowers which was put forth at the extremity of my plant remained in bloom for a considerable period in autumn, the flowers hanging down in a graceful manner. From around the base of the flower-stem sprang three shoots, about 15 in. in length, and each of these, throwing out a corymb of flowers at its extremity, kept up the blooming period until Christmas. F, corymbiflora should not be over-potted, and this holds good also of F. fulgens. Both species appear to like to fill their pots with roots, and then they grow and flower profusely. If over-potted, a period of stagnation sets in during a considerable part of the summer, the energies of the plant are employed in root- growth, and when leaf-growth commences a good part of the flowering season has passed away. I shift my plant in the spring, just when it commences to make growth, disturbing as little of the roots as possible, and using the next size larger pot. It should not be in too rich a soil. This holds good of many of the common varieties of the Fuchsia , but it is particularly true of F. corymbiflora. Some good fibry yellow loam, some leaf-mould, a little manure, and some sand, make an excellent compost. A little very weak manure-water can be given when the plants are in flower. I may add that F. fulgens (growing in a pot that is a mass of roots) bloomed continuously in terminal corymbs all the summer. I gave it an abundance of water in drying weather, — E. Dean. 1875. ] GARDEN WORK FOR APRIL. 81 — GARDEN WORK FOR APRIL. FLOWERS. \Wim to the unpropitious state of the weather during the early months of the year, spring-flowering plants are considerably retarded ; nevertheless, the prospects of a rich display is most assuring, as the plants have not suffered. Even that somewhat miffy subject, Myosotis dissitiflora , which is so effective in spring arrangements, has not suffered in the slightest degree. Plant out Phloxes and Pentstemons into beds and borders previously enriched with fresh compost, and divide and replant into lines and patterns such plants as Cer ostiums , Dactylis , Veronica incana , Euonymus radicans variegatus , Stachys lanata , Santolina incana , Sempervivum calif ornicum [ calcar atmn ], Echeveria secundci glanca , &c. The latter two are much in vogue for dressing the outlines of carpet-beds, stuck formally into the raised edges. If such stiff bands are admissible in such positions at all, they should most assuredly be so disposed as to cover the soil. That sweetly effective hardy plant, Stellaria gramineci ciurea , which is so chaste in combined arrangements with Alter nanlher as, should now be divided, and planted either where it is to remain, or in small portions 2 in. apart, in light soil, upon a border, for future transplanting. Sow seeds of orna¬ mental Beet in beds or border-lines where it is to remain ; Dickson’s or Dell’s are the most effective strains of this that I have seen. Violets as they have done blooming should be at once lifted and replanted, choosing the young growths, ' which are much the best for this purpose ; the ground should have been pre¬ viously prepared, by working-in fresh turfy loam and manure. They delight in a situation shaded from direct sunshine, such as a north border. Hardy Perennials and Alpine Plants upon rock-work will be now very interesting, and should have attention, in filling up vacancies, and planting out tender sorts wintered in frames. Fork the surface-soil lightly amongst herbaceous plants, surface-dressing with fresh soil, which is preferable at all times to deep digging, as these subjects do not flower satisfactorily when the roots are ruthlessly dis¬ turbed. Annuals should now be sown. Where the soil is heavy and rough, it is best to cover with fine soil prepared for the purpose, as many seeds are so delicate ^s to germinate very imperfectly in stiff soil. Many of the stronger¬ growing annuals are suitable for covering the bare ground in front of and amongst newly planted shrubs, producing a very pleasing effect. Amongst these are Amciranthus atropurpureus , caudatns , and hypochondriacus , Atriplex hortensis rubra , Chrysanthemums , Daturas , Gaillardias , Lupines , Mcdopes , Mignonette , GEnothercis , and many others which possess a free habit of growth. Transplant Evergreens now that the sap is active. Cut box edgings, and keep grass closely mown. Conservatories : Amongst plants in bloom, Poses will now occupy a prominent position ; they deserve every attention, to keep under the insects, which will now be hard at work, quickly destroying the fresh verdure of the foliage when allowed to multiply during the earlier stages of growth. As plants in pots have such a limited area from which to draw support, it becomes necessary to sustain them with constant doses of weak liquid manure, more particularly when they are growing freely. Those plants which have done blooming must be hardened off, guarding against sudden checks, which act so adversely to the ripening of the wood. Cut closely back such subjects as Primus , Amygdalus , Double Cercisus , Deutzia , Cytisus , &c., which have been forced, and place them in a genial temperature to break, when they should be examined and fresh potted. Whilst it becomes 82 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGHST. [ April, most essential to subdue the direct action of the sun in these structures at this period of the year, it is, upon the other hand, necessary to guard against over- shading, as it acts prejudically in weakening tender vegetation. Stoves : Such plants as Eucharis amazonica , which are gross feeders, should he kept in a brisk temperature when in active growth, and abundantly supplied with water. Keep such plants as Draccenas , Crotons, JEschyncinthus , Pandanus , Gardenias , L rancisceas , &c., which are now growing freely, near to the glass, and guard against over-shading, as many plants of this nature are utterly spoiled by being kept in darkness. As a general rule, they require all the light possible, whilst Alocasias , Marantas , and similar under-growth plants, should always be shaded from direct sunshine. Place Poinsettias in heat to produce cuttings ; such as are intended to be cut down to break afresh for potting on, will be early enough in May, and as space is an object just now, there is no necessity to start them sooner. Climbers such as Dipladenia , Stephanotis , &c., when growing freely, should be suspended near to the glass upon bands, in which position they make finer growth than they do when formally laced to trellises, upon which they may be trained as soon as they show bloom. Shift on growing stock as they require it, and guard against over-watering, admitting air cautiously, so as to prevent cold currents, and promoting a brisk, humid atmosphere. Greenhouse : The Lapagerias will now require an abundance of water ; in fact, it is difficult to overdo them in this respect, when they are in active growth, so long as the drainage is efficient ; they do best in a perfectly cool atmo¬ sphere, which should be somewhat shaded. They should be planted out in a porous material, consisting of two parts fibry peat to one of turfy loam, which should be kept open by a free admixture of brick rubble and charcoal with sand. Growing stock must be encouraged by shutting up early and damping every available surface, admitting air early in the morning ; but for the present, while growth is tender, cold currents must not be permitted, as they stultify vigorous growth. • See that the plants are so placed that they receive the full benefit of light. Attend to the ultimate symmetry of the plants, by pinching back or tying down any wayward shoots ; it is only by strict attention to this while they are •young, that well-furnished plants can be attained. Orchids will now require shading during bright sunshine, for which purpose a thin material should be used. As a general rule, light is too much excluded, and I would recommend that the roller be elevated about 4 in. clear of the glass, upon laths, so as to admit a free circulation of air between the blind and glass. This has been practised by Messrs. Yeitch of Chelsea with the most satisfactory results. The general potting of these plants will now be completed. Calanthes , which are so useful for autumn and winter flowering, should now be potted, using well- drained pots, and fibry loam freely mixed with dried cow-dung, sand, and charcoal ; water very sparingly till they make fresh growth. As plants are now in an active state, they must be freely supplied with water at the root, and atmospheric humidity must be promoted by frequently sprinkling every available surface. Ferns will now be growing freely, and will require every encouragement, such as abundant watering and shading from sun, while the stems of tree-ferns should be freely syringed. Bedding-plants : Propagation must now be pushed forward with despatch. Lobelias , which are so much used in carpet-beds, must be had in quantities ; the dwarf-growing varieties, such as Lustrous , Pumila grandiflora , &c., are freely pro¬ duced from divisions, if planted in light soil in boxes. The double-dwarf kind cannot bo relied upon for bedding purposes, being so uncertain in its blooming. Of the stronger-growing kinds there are various strains of Speciosa: which is still the 1875. ] GARDEN WORK FOR APRIL. 83 best for general purposes ; a variety of this, Mazarine Gem , is deserving of notice as being richly coloured, and L. nivea is the best white. Several of the Abutilons are most effective for massing ; interspersed amongst dark-leafage plants, they produce relief by pleasing contrast ; the best is A. maculatum niveum auveum (which, I think, is known as A. marmoratum), A . Thonipsoni , and the dwarf-growing A. vexillarium variegatum , which forms an' effective ground-work amongst tall plants. Gradually harden off under temporary protection the hardier kinds that are thoroughly established, to bear full exposure during mild wreather, plunging the pots in spent tan or other light materials, so as to . economise attention in watering, and at the same time guard against cold cutting winds. Pot off cuttings as soon as rooted, and prick off seedlings of all kinds, so as to prevent drawing. Divide and start the tubers of Cannas ; sow seeds of Stocks , Asters, Marigolds , Zinnias , Everlastings , and other Half-hardy Annuals , and start them in a mild heat. — Geo. Westland, Witley Court. FRUITS. Vines : Where the fruit is beginning to colour, syringing must be discon¬ tinued ; attend to previous directions in regard to temperature, air, &c. Com¬ mence thinning the berries in the succession-houses at an early stage after they are set, and keep the shoots tied in and the lateral shoots stopped. Water the inside borders, and maintain a moist atmosphere during the time the fruit is swelling. Close early in the afternoon, to economise sun-heat. Vines in pots must not at any time suffer from drought ; water them liberally with liquid manure, but be careful not to apply it too strong, or it may injure the young feeders. Young Vines that are intended for fruiting next year should be shifted as they may require it ; in potting them use rough turfy loam mixed with sheep- droppings. Peaches and Nectarines : Go on with the disbudding in the succession-houses, and tie in and regulate the shoots of those farther advanced ; select for next year those of moderate growth. Stop the shoots above the fruit, with the exception of those that are destined for leading branches. Continue to thin the fruit as they may require it ; this must be entirely regulated by the condition of the trees, as double the number may be retained on a vigorous tree as compared with one in a weakly condition. Do not hurry the fruit during the process of stoning ; a night temperature of about 60° will be sufficient at this stage. Keep the foliage clean and healthy ; water the inside borders ; syringe, and make the most of sun-lieat at closing-time. Pines : Those in fruit require a temperature of about 80°, with an increase of 10° during sunshine : water freely, syringe the plants when the house is closed in the afternoon, to keep up the requisite moisture. Attend to the linings of those growing in dung-pits. Water the plants if dry ; and if any were not shifted last month, no time should be lost in getting them repotted, using a mixture of free turfy loam and rotten manure ; do not press the soil too firmly in the pots ; syringe these plants if the weather is fine, but do not give much water at the root, till they begin to grow, and avoid a current of air through the pit. Figs : Pinch out the points of the young growth, and keep the shoots from being overcrowded ; mulch old trees with rotten manure, and water the borders, increase the night temperature in the early house, but do not allow it to exceed 65°, with arise of 10° through the day ; syringe the trees at closing-time. Those in pots should be well supplied with water till the fruit is ripening. Cherries : Keep the trees well syringed while the fruit is swelling ; give also plenty of water at the root. When the fruit has stoned, and is beginning to 84 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, colour, less moisture will be needed, and the night temperature may be increased with safety, but give plenty of air through the day. Keep strict watch for black- fly, and destroy them by dipping the points of the shoots in tobacco-water. Strawberries : See previous directions. Introduce the last lot of plants under glass. Melons : Keep the linings turned or renewed, and still continue to cover the frames every cold night, except where fire-heat is used. Keep the shoots thin by cutting away useless growth. Give more air and water in proportion to the increase of heat and light, and avoid shading if possible. Sow again early in the month. Hardy Fruit: Presuming that all pruning, nailing, planting, &c., was brought to a close last month, very little remains to be done in this department for the present. Still continue to cover Peaches and Apricots whenever frosty nights appear likely to occur, but remove the covering in the day-time if the material used is of a close texture. If green-fly should attack the Peach trees, destroy them on their first appearance ; common snuff and sulphur, in equal parts, is perhaps the best remedy at this early season, as it would be injurious to the young fruit to use a wash strong enough to kill the fly, though next month it may be done with safety. Encourage all the foliage possible, and do not be too much in a hurry to disbud the trees till the weather becomes warm and settled. Plant Strawberries , and keep the ground hoed among the growing plants ; keep down the young crop of weeds in the fruiting beds, and prepare for mulching the plants with manure or litter. Give plenty of air and water to Orchard-house trees , keeping the foliage healthy by checking the ravages of aphides, and syringing the trees frequently. — John Powell, Frogmore. VEGETABLES. Closely inspect the seed-bed of each crop sown, and ascertain beyond question that the seeds are germinating and making satisfactory progress, in view of the ultimate supplies. In all instances where there exists any doubt of this, set to work without hesitation or delay to make duplicate sowings, as it is far better to do so, than to run the risk of missing even any single crop. Many subjects, among the ordinary spring and summer vegetables, will need carefully moulding up, but this should be done with some consideration. The practice is calculated, in some measure, to ward off the colder winds, and to encourage all the possible superficial root-action ; but it is not necessary nor judicious to unduly bury the base of any plant, in furtherance of the necessary practice. The soil should be drawn up so as to form an acute ridge on either side, of but not close up to the stem. Successional sowings must be made of main-crop Peas , Broad Beans , &c. An early sowing may also be made towards the end of the month of Scarlet Banners, and, perhaps, a small one of Dwarf Kidney Beans — the latter more as a chance crop, should no mid-day frosts occur, than as likely to secure a per¬ manent one. The former stands a far better chance, as even should a severe frost come and cut them down as soon as they have germinated and are well through the ground, a permanent injury will not result, as they will speedily form duplicate shoots, which, pushing through the ground quickly, will form excellent crops at the usual time. The exceptional sowings, to be made a few days after the middle of the month, should consist of : — Cabbages (Early York, or Atkins’s Matchless, and a pinch of the Kosette Colewort), Broccoli (Snow’s Winter White, or Walclieren, Grange’s, and the Edmonton), Cauliflower (Veitch’s Autumn Giant, which should be grown by all), Scotch Kale , Cottager's Kale , Brussels Sprouts , Macfa.rla.ne del, \ r: ,1 * 1 (*\TF> P r* 1 1 r»\r 1875. ] LUCY GRIEVE PEAR. 85 Lettuce of approved Cabbage and White Cos kinds, Parsley , and an early bit of Beet for immediate autumnal use. Radishes must be sown according to fancy, or need ; do not, however, sow the new Californian Eadish at this time, nor until the summer is fairly passing, or it is more than likely that the crop will run to seed, instead of forming its fleshy base. Herbs and all smaller seeds must be sown towards the end of the month upon finely raked rich soil, and in warm sunny situations. Maintain a nice genial warmth of 7 0° to Cucumbers ; give all the air possible whenever the outer air is temperate and u soft shut up the house or frame close towards 3 o’clock, and well bathe the plants and all internal surfaces with tepid water, again giving a little air at the apex or along the back towards 6 p.m. Encourage growth at all times, but do not over-crop at any. When a rapid growth is commenced, aid its onward progress with weak waterings of liquid manure. Particularly attend to insect-pests in regard to these plants, occasionally fumigating the structure as a preventive. — William Earley, Valentines. LUCY GRIEVE PEAR. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. F we cannot claim for Old England the parentage of many of our favourite Pears, we may at least assign to her some of the very best in quality, and among these must rank the subject of our present illustration, of which excellent samples were sent to us last autumn by Mr. Grieve, of Culford. Its history is comprised in the following lines, also communicated by Mr. Grieve It happened very long ago — How long ? we scarcely seem to know — A fair young child, in joyous glee, Pluck’d with her daring little hand A ripe Pear from a tree ; And ate the mellow fruit she chose With all the zest which childhood knows. But marvelled in its inmost core Some dark brown pips to see ; And marvelled more to hear it told That each small pip, so plump and bold, Might yet become a tree. Then thoughtfully she pondered long How this thing could be so, And lastly in a pot of earth A tiny seed did sow. That seed became a living plant, And claimed her willing care, While promises were kindly mado With friends its fruit to share. In time the plant became a tree, With foliage bright and fair ; The child a merry little maid, In favour everywhere. Affection cherished still the tree, Which cold and storm could bravo, But long before it bore a fruit, The maid was in her grave. Aid when at last it ripened fruit, They who full well do know, Declare on England’s fertile soil No richer e-’er did grow ; And say how that a fruit so choice, Its raiser’s name should bear, And be hereafter always known As little Lucy’s Pear. As will be seen from our figure, this variety is remarkable for its long narrow wil- low-like leaves, whicli give the tree a peculiar appearance. The fruit is full medium size, oblong pyriform, broadest just above the middle, its average weight exceed¬ ing 7 oz. The stalk is over half-an-inch in length, set in a very shallow depression, the sides of which are slightly unequal ; the eye is closed, and set in a shallow even cavity. The colour is a clear deep lemon-yellow, thinly marked with russet dots, and having a small rusfeet patch about the eye and the stalk. The flesh is moderately firm, fine-grained, tender and melting, very juicy, with a rich luscious flavour, and a slight and agreeable dash of acidity, such as is occasionally met with in the Glou Morceau. The odour of the fruit is penetrating and agreeable, 86 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, and its appearance something like that of an elongated Glou Morceau. A First- class Certificate was awarded to this fine new Pear by the Fruit Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society at its meeting of October 23 last. The specimens submitted to us were ripe and in excellent condition about the middle of October. — T. Moore. WISTARIA SINENSIS. Sd HIS is one of the finest of all trailing plants, if we except, as a matter of Tj) course, the ubiquitous Virginian Creeper, to which neither smoke nor dust seems in the least objectionable ; and it is well worth a place in front of 1 9* all town mansions where there is space to plant it, so that its roots can get plenty of moisture. Its flexible rope-like habit of growth enables one to train it in any direction, and whether hanging loosely and gracefully from balcony railings, or twined tastefully around portico pillars, it is always fresh and green during the summer, even if its deliciously perfumed grape-like clusters of pea¬ shaped flowers are never produced. Its foliage lasts until late in the autumn, and when contrasted with the deeper-toned Ivy, or with the rich and varied tints assumed by the Virginian Creeper towards the close of autumn, it is capable of producing some excellent effects. There is one way to obtain its clusters of mauve or lavender-tinted flowers not generally adopted, and well worth mention here. It often happens that it is trained on garden walls, near conservatories or other plant-houses, and if a few of its well-ripened branches are introduced through a hole in the wall or sash, and syringed occasionally, they soon throw out their flower-buds, and the flowers thus obtained come in very handy for cutting at a time much earlier than it flowers naturally out-of-doors, and the clusters are so elegant, so fragrant, and so distinct in colour, as to be universally admired. — F. W. Burbidge. A WINTER GARDEN IN THE OPEN AIR. j^jfHE Bedding-out system, as it is called, must certainly be admitted to be ^ an exceedingly well-abused system, although everybody continues to practice it just the same. It is accused of banishing from our sight nearly all our former favourite spring and summer flowers, whose beauty and fragrance used to render our gardens just what they ought to be ; it is said to have induced a meretricious taste for gaudy and glaring colours in flowers, to the exclusion of all that is simply beautiful and interesting ; if is even said to prevent fruit-trees on garden-walls from being trained in the correct geometrical style that used formerly to prevail (see p. 17). But notwithstanding all that may be said against the massing or grouping of plants in the flower-garden, the system continues and will continue to be followed out. The grouping together of plants is, after all, the very system which Nature, who never errs, adopts in their distribution. From the vegetable giants of Cali¬ fornia, &c., to the Lilies and pale Primroses of our woodland glades, all are found 1875. J A WINTER GARDEN IN THE OPEN AIR. 87 associated in groups or masses, seldom as single or isolated specimens. It is scarcely logical or just to condemn the grouping or bedding-out system on account of the shortcomings of unskilful practitioners, who may occasionally employ greater breadths of the bright or primary colours than can be considered to accord with accepted notions or ideas of good taste. It will, I think, be difficult to substan¬ tiate the charge so frequently brought against this system, viz., that of excluding from the parterre our former favourite flowers, as possibly the finer or most ornamen¬ tal species of hardy spring-flowering herbaceous plants were never more sought after and appreciated than they are at the present time. Even if some of the tall, coarse- growing Asters, Solidcigos , &c., which were wont to disfigure our flower borders, are now at a discount, so much the better ; and if the bedding-out system is to be accredited with this result, we ought to feel grateful towards it. For some time to come, at least, we shall probably continue to bed out our flower-gardens as heretofore, and each season it may be hoped will in this respect prove to be an advance on its predecessor as regards effect and tasteful arrangement. We have also gardens for the culture of Spring flowers and Bulbs, Bose gardens, and gardens for Rhododendrons, and other American plants ; and nothing need prevent us from having Winter Gardens in the open air — gardens wherein flowers (which are all but incompatible with a British winter) would, if not altogether excluded, play but an inconsiderable part. A recent visit to the extensive nursery grounds of the Messrs. Barron, of Borrowash, near Derby, well known for their unrivalled collection of coniferous trees, &c., impressed me with an idea of the ease with which such a conception as that to which I am about to allude, could be developed, as I witnessed the vast amount and variety of material at command suited to this purpose, and the wondrous effect produced by many of the species of ornamental-foliaged plants, even while growing in the ordinary nursery-beds or lines, without of course any attempt at effective arrangement, but which sufficiently shadowed forth the pleasing effects which would be the result of working such material into the form of a winter garden or a garden of ornamental-foliaged evergreens. Such a garden might, of course, be of any desired form and dimensions, so as to suit local circumstances and the character of the grounds, by which it might be surrounded, and of which it would necessarily form a part. It might also be laid out according to any desired style, but the more natural and simple the better. It should by all means be on grass, but at the same time so arranged that sound walks of dry gravel should lead to and afford ready access to all parts of it, walking upon grass being by no means always agreeable during winter. Beds or groups should be formed of such plants as the various kinds of Gold and Silver Variegated Hollies , Gold and Silver Yews , with masses of light- coloured and variegated plants of various sorts, having for their background trees or shrubs with dark-coloured foliage, or in various ways agreeably contrasted with plants of a different shade of colour, such as the Common and Irish Yews and the neutral- tinted Junipers, Cypresses , &c. Such beds and clumps should be kept to the 88 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, desired form and dimensions by the skilful use of the knife, avoiding at the same time anything like undue formality ; while single specimens of evergreen trees and shrubs of distinct and remarkable character, such as the Variegated Pinaster , Abies Douglasii, Picea Pinscipo and P. nobilis , Cedrns Deodar a , Hemlock Spruce , Libocedrus decurrens , &c., should be planted in suitable situations, and be there allowed to assume their natural form and size. Tall specimens of the Irish Yew , on which might be grafted the Taxus elegantissima , or other golden- striped sorts, might also be introduced. These, although somewhat formal in appearance, produce a very remarkable and pleasing effect. Groups of such orna¬ mental plants as have been mentioned, could also be margined with suitable hardy evergreens or variegated plants of lower growth, of which there are to be had a great variety, such as the various Petinosporcis , Variegated Savins, Mahonia Aquifolia, Euonymus japonicus , Hardy Winter -flowering Heaths, Cotoneasters , Daphnes , Bambusa Fortunei variegate c, Golden-variegated Thyme , with Santolina incana , Cineraria maritima , and Cerastium tomentosum , &c., for the sake of their silvery whiteness. The few flowering herbaceous plants which might be introduced would consist principally of patches of the Christmas Pose , Winter Aconite , &c. With such materials at command, a unique and beautiful garden might, no doubt, be formed, which in winter would be at the height of its beauty, when the leafage of the various plants employed would be in a fully matured condition, and would be enjoyable at all times when the state of the weather would permit. It would also form a desirable and interesting feature in any garden establishment at any season of the year. — P. Grieve, Culford , Bury St. Edmund's. FRUIT-CULTURE versus CREMATION. AM very much obliged to Mr. F. W. Burbidge for his criticism (p. 56). To use a modern phrase, this is literally a burning question ; it is also a grave one, but after all it is one with which Horticulture has very little to do, and it will require neat handling to keep the subject from dropping into undesirable strata. Let me ask Mr. F. W. B., if lie approves of bones for a vine border, liow bo can object to the entire animal — bones, thews, sinews, and flesh — chopped fine, and mixed and deodorised with burnt clay, or dry earth? The stale fish of London has long ago found its way into the country ; and there, after being mixed with burnt clay in a shed and undergoing disintegra¬ tion and deoderisation, it has gone through the drill as native guano ; but no one could honestly cry Stinking fish as farmer Dobson’s manure-drill went up and down the fallow. The properties that go to make a manure-heap in a farmer’s court-yard valuable. I had rather not discuss, but as “ muck is the mother of money,” let no one speak lightly of it, with all its failings. I have watched the progress of Horticulture from my youth, and was in at tho birth of bones as a manure ; and at the present time who would cry down the bones and offal of an old horse or other beast as manure, when properly managed ? Cremation may be poetic enough for a certain class who would “ court the bubble reputa¬ tion, even at the cannon’s mouth.” Hence we find Campbell giving Hope the power to grin : — “ Hope o’er the ruins and the wreck shall smile, And light her torch at Nature’s funeral pile.” The Martyrs — with reverence, be it said — suffered first a martyrdom, and after that Crema¬ tion : — “ From thy majestic altars tho steadfast martyrs came, To die for their Redeemer, in torture and in flame.” 187.3. ] EUPHORBIA FULGENS. - NEW JAPANESE EVERGREEN OAKS. 89 But even in Cremation it is not all gold that glitters, for withered hags suspected of witch¬ craft were burnt alive, and were of course cremated. We read of- the bodies of Saul and his sons being buried, as well as burnt. The subject is, indeed, so vast that volumes might bo filled with funereal obsequies and sepulchral solemnities, not to name the fate reserved for this fair Earth of ours, “when at that dreadful turn, The swarm shall issue, and the hive shall burn.” The number of funerals at one cemetery here may be twenty or thirty a day, but were that number of bodies to be roasted, or rather burnt to cinders, the air would, indeed, want some of the rain Mr. F. W. B. refers to, to wash out its impurities. People could not live in such a neighbourhood, and the leeway of such a smoke would carry death in its track. The cutting vapour of the chemical works at St. Helen’s and other places would be sweet when compared with the fumes of Cremation, so that we should pray that the blessed Earth might hide the horrid picture from our sight. — Alex. Forsytii, Salford. %* This question may after all some day affect horticulture more than Mr. Forsyth seems to imagine, when public opinion shall have been educated to look to the gardener or the nurseryman, rather than to the undertaker, to furnish from nature’s stores the trappings of sepulture. EUPHORBIA FULGENS, alias JACQUINLEFLORA. QjfHE lovely representative of tlie natural order Euphorbiacecv , commonly known as Euphorbia jacquinicefiora , but which, I presume, is more rightly named Euphorbia fulgens , is well known for its somewhat small-sized, deep scarlet, circular flowers, the size of which is, however, amply compensated by their brilliancy. The dense wreaths in which they are produced when well grown, are exceedingly beautiful. There may be one fact in regard to this lovely plant that is not so well known as its beauty, and it is to this (and to this only at the present time, though I hold a secret anent its culture that is worth one’s birth-right) that I am anxious to draw the attention of the reader. This plant will with¬ stand any degree of cold, down to 40°, or indeed 36° when in full bloom, and will show no symptoms of injury — that is, as regards the brightness of the blooms. If taken into a cool greenhouse, when once the flowers are opened, or only three- parts expanded, they open perfectly, and last thus for an incredible length of time in full beauty ; whereas, as is well known, they soon go off in heat. This plant may also be stood out of doors during the whole summer, and will yet bloom freely in autumn. — William Earley, Valentines. ' NEW JAPANESE EVERGREEN OAKS. N the course of the last summer we received from Messrs. Ottolander and Son, of Boskoop, a series of leaves of new Evergreen Japanese Oaks which had been introduced to Europe by Siebold, and which were cultivated by V them. Of these Oaks, which are especially valuable as being of orna¬ mental character and presumably hardy in this country, some at least of them having proved to be so at Combe Wood, in Surrey, we now introduce outline figures, accompanied by Messrs. Ottolander’s descriptions. Quercus glauca, of Tliunberg. — This species is of bushy habit, with slightly hairy branches. The leaves are from 3 to G in. long, 2 in. wide, ovate-lanceolate acuminate, serrated near the point, glabrescent above, and clothed with silky down beneath. Of this Siebold introduced several varieties, as Q. glauca AwoJcasi i 90 THE FLORIST AND TOMOLOGIST. [ April, ca’sia , with the leaves smaller and thinner, ovate-lanceolate, shining light green, the young leaves tinted with brown, sharply toothed from the middle to the Qubrcus: — 1, glauca; 2, gilva; 3, acuta. apex. — Q. glauca Tsikasi lap idea , with the young shoots downy, green ; leaves 3 to 5 in. long, 1 to 1.V in. wide, ovate-lanceolate, light shining green, with dark 1875. ] NEW JAPANESE EVERGREEN OAKS. 01 green stripes round the nerves, glaucous beneath ; petiole long ; the buds sharp and green. — Q. glauca Kvrikasi nigra , the branches brown with white stripes ; the leaves 3 to 5 in. long, 2 in. wide, ovate, sharply toothed from the middle to the apex, light green above, slightly downy beneath, the young leaves of a shining copper-colour. The following varieties are also known : — Q. glauca stenophylla , with leaves narrower than in the type ; and Q. glauca fasciata , in which the leaves are striped with white. Quercus gilva, of Blume. — This species is of a loose habit, many-branclied, the young shoots hairy. The leaves are 5 in. long, l£in. wide, lanceolate-oblong, the margins for nearly two-thirds of their length sharply and deeply toothed, the base acute, of a dark green colour and glabrous above, glaucous beneath ; and the petiole is browmish. Quercus acuta albo-nervis, of Siebold. — In this the habit is bushy ; the branches thick and short, of a brownish colour ; and the leaves from 4 in. to G in. long, 1 in, to 1|- in, wide, elliptic lanceolate, abruptly acuminate, the margin i 2 92 THE FLOEIST AND ROMOLOGIST. [ ArRiL, undulate- crenate near the apex, the base acute ; petiole an inch long, of a dark green above, light green beneath. The leaf-buds are large, sharp, and green. Quercus cuspidata. — A species of bushy habit, in which the younger branches are pubescent. There are two forms : — Q. cuspidata lati folia , of Siebold, which has thick, glabrous, greyish-brown branches, and leaves 4 in. long, If in. wide, closely resembling a Camellia-leaf, dark shining green above, downy and brownish beneath, the petiole small ; and Q. cuspidata angustifolia , of Siebold, which is of pyramidal growth, the branches thin and brown, and the leaves from 2 in. to 3 in. long, three-quarters of an inch wide, leathery, lanceolate, dark green above, light green beneath ; the buds are small, sharp, and green. This species is quite hardy in Holland, and is much used in Japan for making hedges. It yields a valuable wood, and the acorns are edible. Quercus angustifolia, of Siebold. — The habit of this variety is bushy, with thick, short, greenish-black branches ; the leaves are from 3 in. to 6 in. long, 2 in. wide, oval, bluntly acuminate, and crenately toothed near the apex, leathery, of a dark shining green above, glaucous beneath ; petiole short. The buds are brown. We have notes and sketches of some other Japanese Hardy Evergreen Oaks which we shall take an early opportunity to publish. — T. Moore. NOTES ON LEEKS. fN the patrimony of St. David, the Apostle of the Principality of Wales, Richard ap Davis saluted Owen ap Hughes, on his return from the City of Chester, with a bundle of leeks under his arm, with the challenge, “Where did you get that fine fruit?” The Leek has, indeed, become a by-word, and is reckoned an age behind the Onion, and a century at least behind the Garlic and Shallot. Chives are its companions in modern cookery, and as these are used to season green curled Kale, their character for respectability is not thereby enhanced ; but after all, the Leek has a peculiar flavour, milder by many degrees than even the Portugal Onion. The Leek has a peculiar build, and its strap-shaped leaves give it an air of gentility which the hollow pouches of the Onion never have. Indeed, a well- grown Leek might easily be mistaken for a flowering-plant of some note ; but it is at best but a stiff-necked biennial, without the bulb of the Onion, and having nothing that even a Welsh Bard could by any means construe into the character of “ fruit.” Yet the Leek of Wales is not without its merits, and like many other characters, it is not very well understood. When a dish of Leeks was put on an exhibition-table, an excellent botanist was not ashamed to ask what kind of vegetable it was, as it was quite new to him, and doubtless to many others also, who had never before seen their Leek in that light, for it had assumed the character of a small white Turnip, and was calculated to form a corner dish at table, after the fashion of Cauliflower. But how did my friend get it into this fashion, and wli^t made it leave its normal shape of a bundle of leaves and take 1875.] GOLD-LACED AND OTHER POLYANTHUSES. that of a Turnip ? Simply by studying its character, and applying horticultural skill to this savoury biennial, so as to hinder it from going to seed. Now bulbs, as well as most other plants, make a desperate effort to propagate their species, and if that effort happens to be thwarted the next best thing they can do is to increase the size of the bulb, so as to renew the effort again when the season returns. This is the case with Hyacinth bulbs, and with onions grown for two years to get them of large size. The Leek in like manner will well repay the grower, for if he can only prevent it from running to seed, or botanically speaking, from producing its u fruit,” and will keep its feeders well supplied with manure, much after the fashion of growing Celery, it will form bulbs as big as duck’s eggs, and indeed often twice that size. It is still necessary to earth them up a little, as the bulbs should be blanched, and the thick neck should be trimmed to a pear shape, for the sake of appearances. A plant so hardy and so amenable to culture, so cheaply got, and coming into use in early spring as a delicious esculent, is not to be thought lightly of, although it savours of the olden time, and is associated with many jibes and jeers against the ancient Briton in his mountain home. — A. Forsyth, Salford. GOLD-LACED AND OTHER POLYANTHUSES. SHOULD infer, from the many inquiries I am constantly receiving, that the old Gold-laced Polyanthus is again likely to become popular with many lovers of flowers. Scarcely a week passes during the winter but some one is found Njj> asking where such fine old sorts as Sanders’ Cheshire Favourite, Hufton’s Earl of Lincoln, Cronshaw’s Exile, and Buck’s George the Fourth can be obtained. These and eight or nine others were much grown from twenty-five to thirty years ago, and I had feared some of them had entirely gone out of cultivation ; indeed, a few of them may have quite died out. Of our best known present Polyanthus cultivators, I can instance the veteran John Read, of Market Rasen ; William Alsebrook, Sheffield ; and the Rev. F. D. Horner, Kirkby Malzeard — who is, flori- culturally speaking, “ the worthy son of a worthy sire.” A visit to either of these gentlemen at this season of the year, would prove a treat to any lover of this fine old florists’ flower. To do full justice to the exquisite beauty of the Gold-laced Polyanthus, the plants must be grown in pots. Polyanthuses in the open air cut but a sorry figure, when the cold winds of March sweep across our gardens, and shrivel up the delicate blossoms of our early spring flowers. The Polyanthus should be in a cold frame, near the glass, where the plants can have plenty of light and air, to keep them from becoming drawn. Top-dressing is done now. The reason for this is at once seen by any one conversant with the habit of growth of the Poly¬ anthus. At this time of the year, the spring growths are being matured, and these growths spring from near the collar of the plant, and they throw out root¬ lets near the surface. These rootlets should have something good to root into, for the plants derive a great deal of sustenance through them ; hence the practice 94 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, of top-dressing. The florists who grow this flower for show, use thoroughly rotten horse and cow-dung, and maiden loam, in about equal proportions. No cold winds or frost are allowed to come near the flowers, as they are likely to do injury to them. The direct influence of the sun must also be guarded against, as hot sunshine will mar the beauty of the blossoms. There are yet many who, for want of accommodation, grow the Polyanthus in the open ground, and that most successfully. The bed is carefully prepared in the autumn, by digging it deeply, and manuring , well with thoroughly rotten cow or horse-dung and plenty of leaf-soil, and by the beginning of November the plants are planted out. The Polyanthus will stand a great deal of moisture at the root during winter, provided there be a free circulation of air ; and it is alwa}rs well, when severe wintry weather threatens, to shake some fern or other loose litter over the plants, to screen them from injury. By the middle of March a movement of growth will take place, and the flower-spikes will begin to show themselves. The soil should be stirred about the plants to the depth of an inch, taking care to avoid doing injury to the roots by disturbing them, and the bed should be top-dressed with a compost like that recommended for plants in pots. When this is done, some shelter should be extemporised from cutting winds. One of the best means of obtaining this shelter is to cut some branches of the Spruce Fir into small pieces, and stick them about the beds to windward of the plants, and in this way an excellent screen is obtained. During the last two or three years a fine strain of decorative Polyanthuses has been obtained, and designated as a fancy or mottled section. The plants are all of vigorous growth, and they throw up bold trusses of flowers on strong foot¬ stalks, the blossom's being of great size and beautifully marked. From pure white, through yellow, pale lilac, rose, bright purple, magenta, and crimson, these Fancy Polyanthuses vary in colour, and having plenty of robustness of constitu¬ tion, they are invaluable for beds in early spring, for mixed borders, and for cultivation in pots. A good soil is required, and the more attention they receive the more beautiful are their flowers. Last year, the Royal Horticultural Society certificated two or three types, so finely were they shown at some of their meet¬ ings — a measure of encouragement they well deserve. These few seasonable notes would be incomplete without mention of the new Single Primroses that have been raised and exhibited of late. The yellow Primrose of our hedges and woods has developed into a flower of great perfection and beauty by means of careful fertilisation. White and yellow, lilac and purple, rose and red, magenta, scarlet and crimson, and even blue shades, have been obtained. Such varieties as Violet Gem, Auriculoeflora, Rosy Morn, Sunrise, Violacea, Lilacina, Splendour, Fairy Queen, and Sulpliurata, may be mentioned as worthy representatives. All the qualities most dearly prized by the florist — form, outline, substance, brilliancy of hue, &c. — are here present, and, in addition, they flower early, profusely, and continuously. They are remarkably fine when cultivated in pots, after the fashion of the Polyanthus ; but they do not require 1S75. ] SAXIFRAGA CILIATA. - GARDEN GOSSIP. 95 any coddling, for they are as hardy and robust in character as the common Prim- rose of the roadside. — R. Dean, Ealing. SAXIFRAGA CILIATA. HIS is a hardy herbaceous species belonging to the same group as S. corcli- folia or S. crassifolia , and is well worth a place in the greenhouse or cold frame during the winter and spring months, for the sake of its rosy or salmon-tinted flowers, which are freely produced in February and March, and come in very handy for cutting. The wax-like bell-sliaped flowers are borne on stout erect peduncles, among the roundish heart-shaped ciliated foliage, and are so distinct in form and colour, that they are very useful for grouping in button -hole and other bouquets, along with Lily of the Valley, Bouvardias, Jasminum grandi- florum, and other white flowers. The flowers open in gradual succession on the peduncles, and can be cut singly and wired when wanted, and in this way a single plant furnishes flowers for several weeks. A great point in its favour is its durability when mounted on wires. In private gardens where button-hole bouquets have to be supplied daily, it is often a matter of some little difficulty to obtain good substantial flowers, of distinct forms and effective colours. Just now this plant would prove very useful either for the last-mentioned purpose, or it is well worth a place as a pot- plant on the greenhouse stage, to say nothing of its usefulness and adaptability as a plant for naturalisation on a warm border or on a sunny rockery, where its flowers would open later in the season. This is only one of the many hardy plants that might be potted in the autumn or winter, and placed in a greenhouse or cold frame or pit, -where they not only flower early, but their flowers and foliage come larger, brighter, and cleaner, than when exposed to splashing rains, and the cold east winds of February and March. What can be more beautiful than the rich purple Iris reticulata , Iris nudi- caulis , Scilla sibirica , Rhodiola rosea , Narcissus Bulbocodium , Cyclamen A tkinsii, Galanthus nivalis (Snowdrop), IleUeborus niger (Christmas Rose), blue and pink- flowered Hepaticas , and the different varieties of the common Primrose, when grown in pots, in a sunny pit or frame ? Growing hardy plants indoors is no new idea, but it is one as yet not half developed ; and while we all force such hardy plants as Narcissus Tazetta , Narcissus odorus , Dicentra (Dielytra), spectabilis , Lily of the Valley, Hyacinths, and Tulips, we seem to forget that nearly all hardy bulbs, and at least fifty per cent, of all our hardy herbaceous and border flowers, are amenable to the form of culture here indicated. — F. W. Burbidge. GARDEN GOSSIP. far, during the present year, the meetings of the Royal Horticultural Society , whatever the cause — whether the protracted cold weather or the internal dissensions of the Society — have very much fallen off in interest. At that which was held on Jan. 20, a fine group of Cycads, containing a 06 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ App.il, good plant of the rare Zamia Roezlii, the leaflets of which are 8-10 in. long, came from Mr. Bull ; while Messrs. Veitchand Sons gained a First-class Certificate for Nepenthes intermedia , a hybrid of which one of the parents was Rafflesiana, and which had the pale green, lightly red-spotted pitchers, broad at the base, narrowing upwards, and being freely produced. — On Feb. 17, one of the prettiest exhibits was a basket of the rosy-lilac Primrose, falsely known as Primula altaica in gardens, from M. Miles, Esq., of Shirehampton, Bristol. Messrs. Veitcli had a First-class Certificate for Ahntilon Darwinii, a free-flowering plant with white leaves, and broadly-campanulate defiexod veiny flowers, of an orange-buff colour ; and a Second-class Award for Odontoglossum Warscewiczii , from Costa Rica, a remarkably free- flowering plant, with small thin ovate pseudobulbs, and flower-scapes issuing from the leaf- axils of the young growths, and bearing four-flowered racemes, the flowers 2 in. across, white, with a dull purple spot near the base of the squarish bilobed lip. — On March 3, Mr. Green, of Reigate, exhibited Masdevallia melanopus, a small but charming subject, with white flowers having the cup-shaped portion dotted with red, and the inch-long tails yellow, the leaves being oblong spatliulate, and the wdrole plant not more than 3-4 in. high ; it received a Botanical Certificate! The small white-flowered Coelogyne conferta was shown by J. L. Bockott, Esq., Stamford Hill. — Several interesting subjects were present at the meeting of March 17. H. P. Rose Hippolyte J amain, a bold-leaved large-flowered novelty, was shown in splendid condition, the blossoms being of a bright clear rose-colour, very full and smooth ; Mr. Bennett, of Stapleford, Salisbury, the exhibitor, received for it a First-class Certificate. Other good plants not certificated, were Fhaloenopsis leucorrhoda , from Mr. Bull, a charming natural hybrid, the imported batch of which is yielding several very marked variations. It comes from the Philippines, and is no doubt intermediate between P. Schilleriana and P. Aphrodite (our P. amabilis); the leaves are blotched like the former in the type form ; the flowers have the sepals and petals flushed with rose, while the lip, which has short cirrliose horns, is flushed with yellow, and banded and spotted with crimson-purple at the base and on the lateral lobes. Another form, distinguished as P. leucorrhoda grandijlora , has the loaves freckled all over with less distinct markings of grey, the flowers rather larger, the cirrlii longer, and the roots more terete, — in fact, tending more towards the amabilis type. Tlio New Plant and Bulb Company, of Colchester, exhibited Tulipa Greigii, a new Caucasian species, having tlio leaves marked with short black lines, and large narrow-petaled crimson- red flowers, horned at the tip of the petals, with an oblong black spot at their base, and yellow anthers and stigmas. Some new Hyacinths of considerable promise came from Messrs. Yeitch, amongst them Disraeli , a single blue, with broad segments, pale blue shaded with darker blue, and a good close spike ; Baron Beust , a large-flowered single pale blue, with darker stripes ; and Duchess of Edinburgh , a single blusli-red, with broadisli segments, and fine close spikes. Masterpiece , in tlio same group, was a fine single black-purple, with glossy surface, and forming a close even spike. A new white-flowered Lilac , called alba grandijlora , no doubt an acquisition, was shown in a forced state by Messrs. Paul and Son, of Clieshunt. - iiTff. Clafham, of Scarborough, a most successful cultivator of the Mimulus , has worked up a very fine strain of the maculosus type, some of them unrivalled in character. He gets two crops or successive generations in one year, by treating them after the following fashion: — He first sews on or about the 1st of March, in a gentle heat ; the seed soon germinates, the seedlings are pricked off into pans, about fifty plants in each, at one inch apart ; the pans are placed in a cold frame, and tlio seedlings begin to flower in about twelve weeks from the sowing. As they flower, the poor ones are weeded out, and good ones potted into thumb-pots, and used for supplying pollen with which to fertilise other flowers, or to bear seed. A sowing from this seed is made as early as possible after it has ripened — generally from the 4tli to the 20tli of July, and in the space of from eight to twelve weeks this batch of seedlings also blooms, and from 41ie most promising flowers of this second generation of seedlings is obtained the supply of seed to sow the following spring. These easily-grown and handsome flowers should be more popular than they are. - fine new Hybrid Perpetual Rose, Duchess of Edinburgh, raised by Mr. Bennett, was early last season awarded a First-class Certificate. It is said to be tlie result of crossing Marguerite de St. Amand with. Madame la Baronne de Rothschild, and the flower is rather like the pollen-parent in outline and colour, but the Avood is more robust and stubby, resembling that of the mother-parent. Tlio floAvers stand stiff and erect on the stalks. Somo of the back petals recurve, as is the case with La France, giving a pretty finish to the floAver. French Paradise Apple. (IJonu/i ter JPcu riddsj ntch del 1875. THE FRENCH PARADISE APPLE. 97 THE FRENCH PARADISE APPLE. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. ,\¥E have much pleasure in submitting to the readers of the Florist and Pomologist a figure of the true French Paradise Apple , the Pommier de Paradis , which, when used as a stock, is of such inestimable value in inducing dwarfness and prolificacy in other varieties of Apple. Our figure was made from samples obtained in the garden of the Royal Horticultural Society at Chiswick, where, after many failures, owing to adverse seasons, Mr. Barron succeeded last year in obtaining blossoms and fruits, both of which, as well as the foliage, have been included b}r Mr. Fitch in the accompanying plate. We take from an article in the Gardeners’ Chronicle of April 25, 1874, the following notes on the various Apple stocks then growing at Chiswick : — “Mr. Barron has collected from various sources, British and Continental, a number of Apple stocks, which are growing side by side, so as to admit of easy comparison. Side by side, also, are various Apples worked on the several stocks. There are the Crab stocks {Pommier s francs), with long, spreading, rigid, wiry, tangled branches, of a deep purplish-black colour, and at the time of our visit (April 11) with no vestige either of leaf or flower to be seen. There is the Dutch Paradise, of straggling habit, with olive-coloured shoots, in full leaf, but without a flower. There is Mr. Rivers’ Nonsuch English Paradise, destitute of leaf or flower, and Rivers’ Miniature Paradise, equally late, and scarcely justify¬ ing its name. There is Mr. Scott’s Paradise, of very distinct, somewhat pyra¬ midal habit, in full leaf, but with scarcely a flower to be seen. There is the Doucin, also of pyramidal habit, and producing flowers early. “ Then there is the true French Paradise, Pommier de Paradis , obtained from the most reliable sources in France, which must unquestionably bear away the prize for precocity of flowering and abundance of bloom. By precocity we mean not only early flowering with regard to season, but with reference to age also ; while other stocks of the same age have not reached the fruiting stage, this one has already done so. It is of rather straggling habit, but full of flower. While some stocks at the time of our visit were scarcely showing flower and others none at all, this one stood out in the row sheeted over with pale pink blossoms. These qualities it very markedly contributes to the grafts. Short compact growth, and early and abundant flowering, characterise the scions grafted on this stock, as they characterise the stock itself. A long row in one of the quarters, consisting of various Apples grafted on this stock, side by side with rows grafted on other stocks, is one of the most striking illustrations of the effects and consequences of grafting it has ever been our fortune to witness. The difference in appearance is so great that it would almost seem as if the one row were cultivated for fruit, the other for timber ! By way of illustration we may mention the Rhode Island Greening, a vigorous-growing kind, but which when worked on this stock becomes subdued, assumes a short, bushy habit, and produces an abundance of 3rd series. — YIII. K 98 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ May, early bloom. What was formerly grown at Chiswick under this name of French Paradise is quite a different thing, and relatively very inferior. Of course this Paradise stock is not intended for orchard use, where the freer-growing stocks are preferred.” The French Paradise stock referred to in these remarks is that which we now figure. The plant is of spreading habit, with purplish shoots. The infloresence is abundant, and precocious as to season, and also in relation to the age of the plant. The young leaves are glabrescent, oblong-lanceolate, the apex acute, the base rounded, the margin crenulated, the crenulations mucronulate ; the petiole is less than half the length of the leaf, setose, and the stipules are linear-subulate, as long as the petiole. The peduncles are about three-quarters of an inch long, setose ; the flower-tube glabrous urceolate, reddish, one-eighth of an inch long ; the calyx-lobes triangular, gradually acuminate, setose within ; the petals concave, oblong, obtuse, tapering at the base into a short stalk, and provided with a few cottony hairs on the inner surface ; the styles are crested at the base for a short distance, and there slightly covered with cottony hairs, dividing above into five stigmatic branches. The fruit, which is a really good early eating Apple, is, according to our notes, of medium size, oblate, somewhat angular, yellow, changing on the exposed side to deep golden-yellow, and sometimes having a thin flush of rosy-red. The eye is broad, but closed, sunk in a rather deep cavity. The stalk is short, scarcely projecting from the hollow, which is not so deep as that of the eye. The flesh is pale straw-colour, fine-grained, solid, juicy, and with a brisk agreeable flavour. It ripens in the middle and end of August, and would form a good useful early dessert apple, independent of its value as a dwarfing stock for apple-trees grown in the bush or pyramidal form. — T. Moore. CELOSIAS AS DECORATIVE AND EXHIBITION PLANTS. aOTH the crested dwarf and the pyramidal growing kinds of Celosia have been greatly improved, and each has its admirers ; the dwarf Cockscombs being more particularly grown for exhibition purposes, whilst the pyramidal - habited are most prized for conservatory decoration, as well as being extremely useful for cutting. Of the latter there are various graceful strains, which attain large dimensions under favourable culture, presenting flower-plumes of the most brilliant colours, with such elegance of habit and durability as to place them amongst the most desirable decorative plants that we possess. The first sowing of these should be made in February or March, in fine soil, the seeds being placed in heat to germi¬ nate, and the pots set up near to the glass, as soon as they appear above the soil, to prevent drawing. As soon as the young plants are fit to handle they should be pricked off separately into well-drained pots, keeping them, as soon as they take to the soil, close to the glass, and potting them on as they may require it. For ordinary purposes 6-in., 7-in., or 8-in. pots will be sufficiently large, and plants 1375. ] CELOSIAS AS DECORATIVE AND EXHIBITION TLANTS. 99 four feet liigli may be grown in these. If space is at command, larger plants may be grown in 10-in. or 12-in. pots. The most suitable compost is equal parts of fibry loam, and thoroughly rotten manure and leaf-soil, with a free admixture of charcoal and sand to insure porosity, and it is necessary to use thoroughly-drained pots. The plants must be kept plunged in bottom-heat during the early stages of growth, and freely ventilated to prevent them from drawing, a well-furnished foundation being a great point to attain. The plants must be liberally syringed morning and afternoon, so as to keep under both spider and thrips, to the former of which they are particularly subject, and these quickly destroy the foliage when not subdued. As the plants attain size, a light airy greenhouse will be found the most suitable place in which to grow them, care being taken to harden them off progressively, previous to placing them in it. As the pots become filled with roots, they will be benefited by liberal applications of manure-water, until they show bloom, when they may be transferred to the conservatory. A successional sowing for winter-blooming may be made in April or early in May. The dwarf forms of Cockscombs are very frequently seen exhibited at our Local Exhibitions grown to really marvellous proportions, such as is represented by a remarkably fine variety, showing great density of crest, with a dwarf com¬ pact habit, in the accompanying illustration [for which we are indebted to Messrs. Sutton]. The cultivation of these differs somewhat from the above, inasmuch as they require a greater amount of heat, and of care in getting the plants to show their crests when small. To insure this, the sped should be sown in March, and the young plants should be potted-off singly into small pots as soon as they are fit to handle, and plunged in a frame with a brisk bottom-lieat near the glass, giving air to prevent drawing until they show bloom. They should then be potted on, with liberal drainage, using a rich compost of rotten dung, leaf-soil, and loam in k 2 100 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ MAY, about equal parts, with a free admixture of sand and charcoal, and be kept growing in a temperature of 65° to 70°, and freely syringed. A very important point is to keep the plants stocky ; and as to root-space, 6-in. or 7-in. pots will be suffi¬ ciently large, if they are copiously supplied with liquid manure at each watering, as soon as the pots get filled with roots. Cockscombs are gross feeders, and must have an abundant and nutritious diet to promote perfect development. Inferior strains of Cockscombs are apt to become lanky under any system of rnanagement. When such is the case, and average crests are shown, they may be cut off and propagated in a close frame, keeping them shaded ; they will root in a few days, and must afterwards be inured to the usual treatment, and then they may form fair average Combs. Any one having a dung-frame at command may grow these interesting plants with the usual attention, and they will stand in a window, when gradually hardened off, for a considerable length of time.— —Geo, Westland, Witley Court. THE LAMBTON CASTLE VINES. have on previous occasions referred to the splendid clusters of Black Hamburgh Grapes, which have from time to time been exhibited by Mr. f Hunter from the gardens at Lambton Castle, those of last year’s crop greatly exceedingly anything previously on record, one bunch having reached a weight of 21 lb. 12 oz. Naturally enough, some curiosity was excited as to the treatment to which Vines yielding such splendid results* had been subjected, and this Mr. Hunter has recently met by reading a paper before the Gardeners’ Institute at Darlington, on his management of the Vines in the house where the monster clusters have been produced. From this paper, which has been printed and circulated, we make some extracts. Mr. Hunter states that : — u The house was put up in the early spring of 1869 ; it occupied the old foundations so far as regards width, but was in length made nearly double, by putting two into one. This house stands on piles. While making alterations, I found after boring that we stood 31 ft. 9 in. from anything solid to work on. However, after getting a cement-and-brick bottom to my satisfaction, some 4 ft. in depth, I resolved to have the borders made without further delay. Drainage on such a bottom as this must be efficient and thoroughly well carried out. In this case our front drain is built with brick, and pipes put inside, so that the top of the drain is a little below the cement bottom of the border ; a line of 6 -in. pipes crosses at every 6 ft. from front to back, and at every 4 ft. from end to end of the house, the pipes thus forming a number of oblong squares, 6 ft. by 4 ft. This was filled up with brick-bats to a foot in depth, and then with small stones and coarse gravel, after which it was turfed over, the grassy side of the sod being placed downwards. Soil suitable to make the border was the next important item. The park, or a portion of it, had been drained previous to my coming to the gardens ; I used the turf which was put aside for gardening purposes, and cut fresh turf to make out with. To every six cart-loads of soil, I added one of lime debris, one of charcoal, one of burnt clay, 3 cwt. of broken bones, and a good dressing of clean cow-manure. The whole was turned over twice in the border, and in a few days the Vines were planted. Some of them were from one-year- 1875. THE LAMBTON CASTLE VINES. 101 old canes, and the others from eyes struck the same spring, the latter having a decided advantage at the end of the first year’s growth, which they still maintain. Wireworm was found most destructive the first year ; to check this, the surface of the border was smoothed with the back of a spade, coated over with rape-dust, on which were laid thin boards, which were covered up with 2 in. of old mush¬ room manure ; this was turned over every alternate morning, when the wireworms were picked off the boards by hundreds. “ With this treatment the Vines carried their foliage well into December, when they were cut back to 6 ft. from the bottom. I very soon after felt disposed to see what wireworms were left in the border, and also with a view of further assisting the Vines, I had an opening taken out at the back of the border and worked forward on them carefully with steel forks ; every portion of the border was turned back and hand-picked until within 3 ft. of the Vines, by which time we had a fine lot of roots laid bare. The soil was worked forward again, with the addition of a few more ingredients to the old, the roots being carefully laid in again. This has been done this, and every year, with one exception, since plant¬ ing, and I doubt not with advantage to the Vines. At one place where I was, under a noted Vine-grower, I assisted in making over a hundred yards in length of new Vine borders, at various widths, and to my surprise on removing the old Vines, which were considered A 1 in their day, I found that each had but a root or two to support them ; they had taken up their abode in some quarter never made for them, as they passed out of the border, without leaving a fibrous root in it. Imagine a gardener trying to assist the Vines by watering and top-dressing such borders ! “ I shall close by giving the outlines of treatment the Vines had in this house. In the latter end of February the house was kept close, previous to starting, on March 1, when syringing, morning and evening, was well done, according to the weather; fire-heat was applied at 6 a.m., and taken off at noon ; and no fire-heat was given at night unless rendered necessary by frost. During the month the outside and inside borders were watered with 1,G80 gallons of tepid water, running on at the rate of seven gallons per minute through a fine rose. By the 15th no syringing was allowed overhead. During April fire-heat was turned off sooner in the day, weather permitting, but was applied immediately after shutting up. On the 6th, so rapid was their progress, that the shoots were pinched two leaves beyond the fruit, and tied down. On the 13th, the evaporating troughs were allowed to become dry, and fire-lieat was used freely, front air was put on at 8 p.m., and increased at 10 p.m. On the 20th, the Vines were in full flower, the treatment remaining the same, only the troughs becoming dry. By the 27tli, all the flowers had set ; then the evaporating troughs were refilled, and front air was more freely admitted. On May 1, thinning commenced; airing as in April. On the 13th, the inside border was watered with 3,360 gallons of guano-water, at a temperature of 85°. After the 18th, the temperature of the house was not allowed below 65°, when front air at nights was admitted much more freety. On June 15, the outside border was watered with guano-water, running at the rate of six gallons per minute, which lasted seven hours, the quantity given being 2,520 gallons. Again, on the 29th, this house received 5,040 gallons, and on July 20, 1,680 gallons. * All this was put on at a uniform tepid temperature. The regular requirements, such as stopping, tying, thinning, &c., were duly attended to. Here wre have a dry locality ; in the grape-growing season at Lambton Castle our rainfall did not exceed ten inches.” Abundant but judicious feeding would appear, then, to be the speciality in Mr. 102 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ May, Hunter’s treatment, to wliicli tlie noble results lie has realised are to be attributed. Tlie large quantities of water — mostly guano-water — applied, show that Vines delight in abundant moisture at the root, while the peculiarities described in reference to the subsoil show that drainage is perfect — that, in fact, there is no stagnation. Moreover, the stimulus given to root-action by such an abundant use of tepid water must be credited with its share of the results. — T. Moore. CLEMATIS INDIVISA LOBATA. ®HIS evergreen Clematis should be grown by all who possess space for greenhouse climbing plants, where they can ramble fairly free from restraint. fit is a somewhat attenuated grower, roaming away into space indefinitely from its base. Hence it is well adapted for mixing with climbing plants grown with the least amount of restraint. The leaves are of a neat form and a pleasing tint of green, and the blooms, which are not greatly unlike as to their size and appearance those of C. montane «, are borne from three to six together on branched stalks. They have a somewhat darkened eye of a puce, or reddish- purple tint, which contrasts favourably with the pure white of the sepals — pure white, that is, when fully blown, as they are nearly green in their infantile state, and grow into whiteness and purity. The plant is as hardy as any of its kind need be, still to be considered as a greenhouse climber. A plant that we have had beautifully in bloom for the past month or two, withstood a temperature of 35° for many nights during the past winter. The blooms last moderately well when cut. — William Earley, Valentines. CHAMiEROPS GRIFFITH!!. ^F all the flabelliform-leaved genera of Palms, there are few, writes M. Carriere in the Revue Horticole , which have of late fixed attention more than that of Chamcerops. It is one of those which, by the elegance and the hardiness of the species which constitute it, can best furnish us with the materials for the ornamentation of gardens and apartments. Established by Linnaeus for the only species then known, C. humilis (which is abundant in North Africa, where it constitutes broad, generally dwarf, tufts, remarkably difficult of extirpa¬ tion, and which is also found on the Mediterranean shore in Spain and Italy), this genus has been enriched by several other species, all, however, belonging to the temperate regions of the old and new worlds : China, Japan, Nepal, Florida, and Georgia. This dispersion in exclusively temperate countries, so remarkable for plants of the Palm family, explains why they have received so much attention in gardens. The species represented in the accompanying figure, C. Griffithii , of Loddiges, is, according to that author, a native of the East Indies, where it grows at a rather considerable altitude ; nevertheless, it is, in the climate of Paris, adapted for the temperate greenhouse, or the orangery, or possibly it might be grown in the open air in the South of France, and in Algeria. The unique example which 1S75. ] CHAMiEROPS GRIFFITHII. 103 the Museum possesses was sent there in 1839 by Dr. Wallich. This is the plant represented, and which, planted out some twenty years since, in the large temperate pavilion, has become one of its most interesting occupants. Its trunk, which is naked below, measures about 10 ft. in height, and 6 in. to 8 in. in diameter through¬ out its length. It is crowned by a tuft of leaves 15 in number, of a tender green, their spreading or ascending petioles, which are 4 ft. to 5 ft. long, being unarmed and glabrous, with the exception of those of the youngest leaves, which have the edges abundantly furnished with a whitish tomentum. This Chamcerops has not Chamterops Griffith!!. yet flowered at the Museum. Its graceful figure removes it far from the other species cultivated there, namely, C. humilis , Linn. ; C. hystrix , Fras. ; C. staura- cantha , Hort. (which some authors refer to Trithrinax) ; C. aculeata , Liebm. ; C. Fortunei , Hook. ; C. excelscr, C. sinensis ; C. Martiana , Wall. To these five species one may still add, according to Wendland, C. guyanensis , Lodd. ( C . cochinchinensis , Hort. Par.). Nevertheless the plant, not yet adult, which is cultivated now at the Museum under the name of C. cochinchinensis , seems to have too much resemblance to C. humilis , of which it is probably a variety. 104 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ MAY, C. Griffithii is only known to us by tlie catalogue published by Loddiges in 1841, but it seems very similar to C. Ichasyana , Griff., a species from the same regions, and which Griffith has described and figured in his work on the Palms of India, but which has not yet been introduced. Whatever it may be, it is exceed¬ ingly rare in cultivation, and perhaps even still exists only in some few scientific gardens. It is unknown in cur horticultural establishments, which makes one suppose that it has not been reintroduced since its arrival at the Museum, a fact which is all the more to be regretted, since we have here a species which at once recommends itself by its elegance and beauty. — M. FLORICULTURAL NOTES OF THE MONTH. ™ OME glimpses of the New Roses of 1873 and 1874 are now being afforded through the medium of the Spring Shows ; and really when do Roses look so bright and beautiful, and appear so welcome, as when seen at our early exhibitions, produced by such growers as Messrs. Paul and Son, and Mr. William Paul ? At the exhibition of the Regent’s Park on March 31 the New Roses were shown in strong force, and a First-class Certificate was awarded to Mr. William Paul for II. P. Star of Waltham , one of his own seedlings. Two years ago this splendid Rose was first shown, and then it attracted all rosarians to it ; and here it was again, large, full, lustrous in colour, and superbly beautiful, its bright carmine-rose hue and its constancy being especially noticeable. H. P. Thomas Mills, one of Messrs. Paul and Son’s seedlings, was singularly bright in colour, of a vivid cherry-red hue, but as staged showed a tendency to open in the centre ; from what I remember of it last year, I should say it will come fuller in the summer, when grown in the open air. What a lovely delicate Rose is II. P. Captain Christy ! nearly white on the exterior, pale carmine-flesh in the centre, large and full, and exquisite in the bud state. H. P. Duchess of Edinburgh , light silvery-pink, forces well, and is full of promise. II. P. Etienne Dupuy is a darker flower, globular, and fine ; we shall see this good in the summer. II. P. Madame Louis Leveque has deep rosy-carmine flowers, and is considered one of the best new Roses ; let cultivators bear it in mind. Every Rose-grower almost thrilled with admiration before the delicate beauty of Mdlle. Eugenie Yerdier, one of those flowers with a strongly marked individuality of character, like La France ; the new II. P. Marie Finger resembles it in type, but is darker, a lovely shaded salmon-rose that cannot fail to become a favourite. Noisette Caroline Kuster is very fine also, having bright orange-yellow - flowers somewhat of the shape of Celine Forestier, and it forces well ; so does Tea Cheshunt Hybrid. The dull sunless weather renders shading unnecessary for forced Roses, and prolongs the beauty of the flowers. In such weather the difficulty lies in main¬ taining a proper temperature and sufficient airiness. If the plants are kept too close, thrips appear ; on the other hand, cold draughts playing directly on the plants are not beneficial. Cinerarias are invaluable decorative flowers for early Spring ; they are now at 1375. ] GARDEN WORK FOR MAY. 105 tlie best, and some of tbe most cheerful tints in the greenhouse are supplied by them. Mr. J. James, Redlees, Islefworth, exhibited a capital strain at the meeting of the Royal Botanic Society, on March 31, dwarf, vigorous, and bearing brilliant- liued and finely formed flowers. Three of these were selected for First-class Certificates, viz., Ann Page , white disc, with narrow ring of white and broad margin of deep purplish-rose ; Brightness , white disc, very slight ring of white, and broad margin of bright crimson ; and Charles Bending , dark disc, with a slight ring of white, and massive margin of crimson, dashed with purple. To preserve the effectiveness of Cinerarias in flower, the blossoms should be picked off as soon as they begin to fade. If they are allowed to carry and ripen their seeds, the plants have a confused and untidy appearance ; a half-dozen or so of the best types should be selected for seeds, and placed away in a quiet corner, out of the reach of the burning sun, and of puffs of wind which soon scatter the seeds. Amongst Hyacinths, but little of a valuable and novel character has come to the front this season. At the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society on March 17, Messrs. Veitch and Sons staged a group of new varieties, and though among them there might have been two or three of promise, they were not up to the mark of established varieties. Perhaps it would be well, if new Hyacinths were simply commended the first year they were shown, and then certificated, if deemed worthy, the second year. There is, no doubt, a great desire on the part of the English cultivators to get the very best of the Dutch seedlings into cultivation for exhibition purposes as soon as possible, and the inevitable consequence is that they are flowered and exhibited before the bulbs reach their proper measure of maturity. They cannot be shown as new varieties again, unless it should be done under different names. The finest new flower that has come to the fore this season, is one named Etna, a semi-double red variety, shown by Messrs. Veitch and Sons ; the colour is bright rose shaded with crimson ; the bells are large, the segments very broad and smooth, and the spike of a symmetrical shape. This was awarded a First-class Certificate. One or two dark blue flowers among the new varieties promised well, and may be seen in better form next year. — R. Dean, Ealing. GARDEN WORK FOR MAY. FLOWERS. order to facilitate the labour of “ bedding-out,” such beds as are at liberty jju should be put in readiness, adding fresh composts, and working up the fifty soil to the ameliorating influence of the weather. Whilst such plants as Y flowering Pelargoniums are not improved by being grown in rich soil, those that are prized for their majestic aspect, such as Canna , Melianthus , Pohjmnia , Picinus , and Wigandia , and which luxuriate in enriching elements, should have an abundance of rotten manure worked into the beds. Materials must be had in readiness for the renovation of such beds as are planted with Spring-flowering plants, which must be lifted towards the end of the month, and replanted in the reserve-ground, dividing into small portions such plants as 106 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGHST. [ Mat, Aubrietias, Arabia , and Daisies , &c. In tlie arrangements for summer decoration the endeavour should be made, by skilfully blending in pleasing harmony both foliage and flowering plants, to create as great a variety as possible. Absolute rules cannot be laid down as to their disposition. The modes of arrangement will, to a great extent, have to be governed in accordance with individual taste, and will always undergo periodical alterations subservient thereto. Be not induced by bright gleams of sunshine to plant out tender plants too early, as the weather is often treacherous towards the end of the month. Such subjects as Calceolarias do best planted out early, if previously hardened off ; after planting these, water freely to settle the soil about the roots, and mulch the surface with short manure, so as to retain moisture ; if they are allowed to become dry at the roots when planted out, they frequently succumb from this cause, for Calceolarias delight in a compact, moist medium. Attend to the watering of recently planted Shrubs and Trees, and finish the planting of Evergreens. In order to assist Rhododendrons, Kalmias , &c., grown in masses, to develop their blooms, they should have copious supplies of water. Plant out spring-struck Hollyhocks , Pentstemons , and Phloxes , &c., and sow seeds of Biennials. Conservatory : Permanent plants, such as Camellias , which are planted out will now be making rapid growth, and must be freely supplied with water ; syringe freely every afternoon, being careful that the atmosphere becomes somewhat dried before nightfall, as the blossoms will be of short duration if confined in a humid atmosphere. Creepers must be regularly trained and kept within reason¬ able bounds, or else the strong-growing kinds quickly become wild entanglements, to the detriment of such plants as are grown under them. Hydrangeas are useful plants for conservatory decoration when well grown, and such as are coming forward will be benefited with copious supplies of manure-water ; PI. Otaksa and H. paniculata grandijlora are most effective plants ; cuttings from the shoots that are not showing bloom should now be rooted. Give the necessary attention to shading and ventilation. Stoves : With increased heat we have increased root-absorption, and many stove-plants drink greedily, so that the supplies must be more copiously provided for them, by syringing during the afternoons and freely damping the path¬ ways. Many of the plants which were potted on early in the season will now require shifting, before they become pot-bound. Poinsettias should be propagated, being careful to keep young growing stock near to the glass, and freely supplied with air, to prevent drawing. Give timely attention to the training and stopping of all free-growing plants. Orchids : Many of the most charming of these will now be in bloom, and should have such attention as shading and placing them in a moderately cool atmosphere, in order to prolong the flowering period to the utmost. As they for the most part will now be growing freely, they must be liberally supplied with water at the roots, as well as provided with atmospheric humidity, ventilating freely at the top only, so as to avoid draught. Ferns : By shutting up early in the afternoon, but little fire-heat will now be required. Give attention to potting on as necessary. Such plants as are estab¬ lished must have an abundance of water ; and all must be kept shaded from direct sun. Greenhouse Plants : Azaleas , as they go out of bloom, should have the flowers removed, repotting such as may require it ; they delight in a warm, humid atmosphere whilst making growth. Fuchsias should have timely attention in staking, pinching back the side shoots upon growing plants so as to regulate the form, and encouraging with liberal applications of manure-water. All autumn- 1S75. ] GARDEN WORK FOR MAY. 107 blooming soft-wooded plants will require frequent sliifts, and should be kept growing, and near to the glass. Chrysanthemums must be potted on before they become pot-bound ; they delight in a liberal diet. Give attention to the pricking- off and potting-on of Cinerarias , Balsams , Celosias , &c., keeping them close and shaded until they are re-established. Bedding Plants : The majority of these will now be placed under temporary protection to harden, previous to being planted out. Alter nanther as, Coleuses , and Tender Annuals -which are growing in pits should have an abundance of air, to prevent them from being drawn up. — Geo. Westland, Witley Court. FRUITS. Pines : Shift succession-plants as they may require it ; maintain a moist growing temperature of about 70°, that may rise to 85° or 90° through the day in bright weather ; avoid a burning bottom-heat. , Air freely in good weather, from the back of the pit only, for, as previously stated, a draught through the pit will soon cause the plants to assume a brown and unhealthy appearance. All plants intended for winter fruiting should now have their final shift. Keep up a moist heat in the fruiting-house, and let the temperature range from 75° to 80°, with an increase of 10° by sun-heat ; syringe in the afternoon, and close the house early ; give liquid manure occasionally to all plants in free growth, as well as those in fruit. Peaches and Nectarines : After the fruit is stoned , and the second swelling 7 O commences, the temperature may be raised with safety. Give plenty of water to the inside borders, and continue to syringe the trees up to the time the fruit is ripening ; tie in the shoots, so as to expose the fruit as much as possible to the sun, and give plenty of air in bright weather. Attend to previous directions for those not so far advanced. Cherries : As soon as the fruit begins to colour the temperature should be in¬ creased, in order to hasten its ripening ; give plenty of water at the root, but keep up a less humid atmosphere, as all the Bigarreau class of Cherries are very apt to split if too much moisture is kept up at the time the fruit is approaching maturity. When the crop of fruit is gathered, remove the trees, and place them for a time in a sheltered situation. Keep them well syringed and watered for a week or two, after which time they can be taken out of the pots, and planted out in the open ground. Vines : Clear out from the vineries all such plants as French Beans and Strawberries , otherwise red-spider may become troublesome on the Vines. Still apply fire-heat to all, except the late houses, so that the temperature does not fall below that hitherto maintained, and so continue till the fruit is perfectly ripe, after which time the house can be kept cool and airy. Keep the latest Vines retarded as much as possible, till they show for fruit, when the usual treatment must be given them. Keep the lateral shoots stopped, and the bunches thinned in the succession-house, and syringe and close the houses early in the afternoon. Attend to Vines in pots , and see that those in fruit do not at any time suffer from drought. Mulch the surface of the pots with cow or sheep- droppings, and give frequent waterings with diluted liquid manure ; remove laterals from the young plants, as well as from those in fruit. Strawberries : Give plenty of air and water to those in bearing, and place the last lot of plants in cold frames. This must be done at once, to keep up a supply of fruit till such time as they are ripe in the open ground. Melons : Thin and stop the shoots so that the foliage may have full exposure to air and light. When a sufficient quantity of fruit is set, place glass or tiles 108 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ May, under them. Give plenty of air through the day ; syringe the plants, and close early in the afternoon. Plant out those sown last month, and sow again for a late crop. Figs : More air and less moisture should he given when the fruit is approaching maturity. Up to this stage they should be well supplied with liquid manure, especially old trees, and those in pots ; thin and stop the shoots, and thin the second crop of fruit if it is considered to be too heavy. Hardy Fruits : Apricots will now require thinning, but at first, double the quantity intended to remain on the trees should be left, deferring the final thin¬ ning till the fruit has stoned and the crop is safe. The green fruit make good tarts, and are excellent when preserved with sugar. Caterpillars are at this time often very destructive to the young fruit, and if any make their appearance, which the curling of the leaves will indicate, they should be diligently sought for. Keep Straw - berry-beds, free from weeds, and mulch the ground round the plants with litter or short grass, to keep the fruit clean and the ground moist ; water in dry weather. Keep a close watch for green-fly on Peach and Nectarine trees ; a good wash can be made with soft-soap and tobacco ; 1 lb. of each, boiled in water, will make 15 gallons ; strain the mixture through a cloth, and use it with a syringe in the evening. Go over the trees and remove all strong shoots that can be spared, but disbudding should at no time be carried on too severely. The fruit in Orchard- houses will now be set and swelling ; thin the fruit to a moderate crop, and stop the strong shoots ; assist the trees by liberal supplies of liquid manure and by top-dressing ; use the syringe freely, and give abundance of air in fine weather. — J. Powell, Frogmore. VEGETABLES. The cold dry winds which have been of such long duration have left their impress on Spring Vegetables. Tha supply of some subjects, such as Asparagus , that might ordinarily have been anticipated soon after Easter, has been post¬ poned, and as it were, by way of recompense, others, such as Broccoli , Seakale , &c., have been retarded beyond their customary season. Thus, though the gardener has not suffered in regard to furnishing constant successional supplies of various subjects, a slight deviation from routine spring practice may be requisite to make all right in the end. If I do not err in regard to the inferences the past weather have given rise to, I do not doubt that by and by it will be found that the suc¬ cessional crops of Peas , Broad Beans , Spinach , Lettuces , &c., will come in too closely together ; for already I perceive that the earliest Peas , about to grasp the sticks with their first tendrils, are not so far as they should be in advance of successional ones, and especially does there appear to be a great uniformity of growth and size amongst the Broad Beans that are up. This I take to be owing to the fact that all seeds germinated freely, and that so soon as they were through the ground all were held back alike, until the several successional crops are far too even in growth. Hence, so soon as fine weather arrives, and that will be, we trust, some time ere this meets -the reader’s eye, there will doubtless be a simul¬ taneous rush growthwise, with a doubt as to 44 which will win.” I advise, there¬ fore, that additional sowings should be made of all quick-podding, or quickly- maturing vegetables upon which there is likely to be a demand for a successional supply. In the case of early Peas , Beans, &c., it may be well to soak the seeds for lialf-an-hour in tepid water before sowing. Continue the sowings of the main crops, with despatch, until all are per¬ manently settled and arranged, as no further delay need now be made in regard to sowing any kind of vegetable or herb. Aim always at high and good culture, r r 7/ r Begonia Model 1875. ] BEGONIA MODEL. 109 by frequently stirring tbe soil between all growing crops. Hoe freely and fre¬ quently, besides and even following, more substantial forking. Use a strong hoe and move every particle of the surface-soil therewith as deeply as possible, as it is only by these means that the great aid-capacity of the air, along with rain, dews, &c., can exert their full influence. Should dry weather set in, do not spare the water-pot, or the hose, if the garden is so fortunate as to possess one; to wait for rain is to see the crop dwindling from sheer exhaustion. Potatos can¬ not be too freely or too roughly moulded-up, as they delight in having the body of soil moved almost to their base. Plant out Tomatos at the foot of warm, sunny walls towards the 20th of the month, or a fortnight sooner, in instances where some temporary kind of protec¬ tion against frost can be made available. Cover up all frames, fee., containing forced subjects for the first half of the month, during all still or airless cold nights ; when wind prevails it will not be so necessary to cover up, as winds have the power to dispel frosts ere they touch the ground-line. Prick out in suitable and warm sites, Celery , Sweet and Push Basil , Summer Savory , and similar herbs, or other semi-tender subjects. Cut the whole of the growth of Asparagus beds, and do not permit small u sprue ” to remain, until all is alike permitted to grow away together. Thin out, and transplant where necessary, early seedling Broccoli , Cauliflower , and similar subjects, and make successional sowings of the selected kinds. Manure Globe Artichokes , and thin out the smaller shoots from each stool, permitting only four of the strongest to remain. Procure horse-droppings, and mixing them along with stable-litter and sweep¬ ings, make up a bed for Mushrooms in any sheltered corner out-of-doors. Raise the frames around Cucumbers , giving a relay of rich soil, filling in the whole space within the frame, and treading it down somewhat firmly ; water more freely, giving more air besides ; sprinkle the whole surface of plants and bed about 3 p.m. on sunny days, and shut the lights down close. Remove all litter from Seakale plantations which have been forced where grown, and as soon as the stools are again discernible, carefully fork between them. — William Earley, Valentines. BEGONIA MODEL. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. 'ARIOUS as have been the forms of the new hybrid tuberous-rooted Begonias which have appeared during the last year or two, since the advent of B. boliviensis and B. Veitcliii especially, there have been few, if any, more distinct and more beautiful than the subject of our present illustration, which was awarded a First-class Certificate by the Floral Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society, on September 2, 1874. It was raised in the establishment of Messrs. Yeitch and Sons, of Chelsea, to whom we are indebted for permitting our artist to make the drawing from which the accompanying plate has been prepared. Begonia Model, like all of its race, is tuberous-rooted. It grows up with a stout, erect, herbaceous stem, which is furnished with narrowly-ovate acuminate sharply-toothed leaves, having the characteristic family obliquity; from the axils of these leaves are thrown up, on rather long and stoutish stalks, so as to 110 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ May, form a considerable head of blossoms, the beautiful rose-coloured flowers, which are not only remarkable for their large size, but also for their perfection of form ; indeed, they are so finely modelled, that the variety must be regarded as a true florists’ flower, and it is besides of free-blooming and vigorous habit, qualities which add immensely to its value as a decorative plant. We learn from Messrs. Veitch that it is a hybrid of the third generation, the result of in-and-in crossing carried on between B. boliviensis and B. Pectrcei in the first instance, and then with B. Veitchii , and afterwards with B. Sedeni. The result of this inter¬ breeding was the production of B. Stella and B. Model , both certificated varieties, out of the same batch of seedlings. As regards the treatment of this new race of Begonias , the Messrs. Veitch inform us that they find the best soil for them is a compost of equal parts of loam, leaf-mould, manure, and sand. They require when growing, or at least they thrive in, a temperature of from 65° to 75° with fire-heat, and accompanied by abundance of air. In sunny weather they should not be shaded except on very hot days when there is no air, and then only for an hour or two in the middle of the day. When at rest, they should have a temperature of 50° to 60°, and bo kept comparatively dry. Some of the hybrids of B. boliviensis and the allied race, including the glorious B. Veitchii , which is all but, if not quite hardy, have been recommended for summer bedding ; and it seems by no means improbable that we shall eventually secure in these a new ornament for our flower-beds and borders. They are in 'the meanwhile exceedingly valuable acquisitions for in-door decorative purposes. — T. Moore. VINES AND VINE-CULTURE.— Chapter VII. Disbudding and Stopping the Shoots. the commencement, each season, of the growth of the Vine, the first operation that requires to be performed, and to which attention must be f1 first directed, is that of disbudding, as it is termed, and which is in reality a thinning-out and regulating of the young shoots that may appear. This is an operation of some importance, especially in respect to young Vines, as upon its being properly carried out depends the future form or character of the plant. Disbudding is, in fact, the first step in training, although it is practised much in the same manner, long after the form is established. Improper disbudding will counteract the best system of pruning that may be adopted ; therefore it should be performed carefully and judiciously. The time for disbudding is just as soon as it may be perceived that there are more buds than are requisite — say, when the shoots are 1 in. or thereabouts in length ; but the sooner it is done the better. To allow the superfluous buds to develop into shoots, and then to rub them off, is a clear waste of the energies of the plant. Some cultivators wait until it can be seen where the clusters will be produced before disbudding finally, and this is safe practice with some Vines, 1875. ] VINES AND VINE-CULTURE. — CHAPTER VII. Ill In disbudding a young Vine, or a leading slioot of the previous year’s growth, the first care should be for the top bud, the growth from which should be care¬ fully tied in, and preserved from injury, as forming a continuation of the stem of the vine ; and in every such case where more than one bud appears, the number must be ruthlessly reduced to one only, all above that number being not only superfluous, but positively injurious. In the disbudding of a young vine, we also regulate the number of shoots which form the future spurs, as explained in Chapters V. and VI. To allow space for the full development of the foliage, these side-slioots should not be less than 18 in. apart, on each side of the stem; it frequently happens, especially in the case of slowly grown vines, that there are more buds on the stem than are required, so all those that are not required must be rubbed off. Nothing is more pernicious in Vine-culture than the crowding of the shoots and leaves. It is well, therefore, to make a fair beginning, with the proper number, and this is done by disbudding. Careless disbudding, or a rubbing-off of the wrong buds, or of a bud that should have been left — and it is easily done, the slightest touch of the finger will do it — must be guarded against. The loss of a bud like this often means the entire loss of the shoot or spur, and is the source of a permanent dis¬ figurement to the plant. Many vines are rendered quite unsightly and nearly ruined through careless disbudding, and carelessness in tying-down the young shoots, resulting in their being broken off. Disbudding, also, at times takes the place of pruning. If the lower buds of a young Vine-rod do not break well, it is a good plan to rub off the higher or top buds, and this will induce the others to break stronger. Again, if it has been forgotten to prune a Vine or shoot until it has become too late to do so, the neglect may to some extent be rectified by a careful rubbing-off of the buds as soon as they may appear, back to the point where the shoots ought to have been pruned, and then when the leaves are about fully developed, the sap of the Vine will be sufficiently diverted, and the shoot may be pruned with safety. Following closely on the operation of Disbudding comes that of Tying-down and Stopping the shoots. The young shoots of a Vine, especially when they are growing vigorously, are exceedingly tender, and easily broken, so that the work of tying them down into their proper position on the wires or trellises to which the plants are trained — for they naturally grow upwards towards the glass — requires a great amount of care and patience. When they are found to be at all brittle, they must only just be inclined or drawn down a little at one time, and so gradually bent or guided into the right position. Practically, however, it is not advisable to tie the shoots so very early ; if the leaves are allowed to expand a little, and the shoots to get some of their woody fibre developed, they will be found to bend quite freely into the desired form without breaking. In reference to stopping the shoots, our illustration (fig. 8) shows the upper portion of a young Vine-shoot, with its bunch of flowers (eventually to become a cluster of berries), as it would appear at this stage. The stopping is requisite in 112 THE FLOBIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ May, Fig. a— Young Shoot of Vine, showing tho mode of stopping. 1875. ] VINES AND VINE-CULTURE. - CHAPTER VII. 113 order to keep the plant within certain limits, and thus to prevent overcrowding and a confusion of the shoots. According to the spur system, the main stems being from 3 ft. to 4 ft. apart, the side-shoots, on which the fruit is borne, can¬ not be allowed to extend to more than 2 ft. in length, or otherwise they must overlap each other. But in fact, the length of shoot has to be regulated by the position of the bunch. The usual practice is to stop it at two joints beyond the bunch, as shown at a in our figure, or at one joint beyond (5), if there is not space for a greater extension. Practically, the longer these shoots could be allowed to grow before stopping them the better, if there is space for the growth so left to go on for the season, as the greater the quantity of fully-developed leaves, the greater the amount of vigour induced. - The operation itself, at the point where it becomes Fia. 9.— Lateral Siioot of Vine, showing the mode of stopping. necessary, should be performed as soon as the shoot attains the requisite length, and is done simply by pinching it, at the point indicated, between the finger and thumb, before it has become fully developed. There is thus nothing, or scarcely anything, to take off, no denuding of the Vine of a portion of its foliage, and no con¬ sequent check to its growth. It is very bad practice indeed to allow the shoots to grow to such a length as to render it necessary to use the knife in stopping them. This is a great waste of the .vital energies of the plant. The tendril forming a part of the bunch of fruit should be pinched off at the same time at c, as also should the bunch or tendril (d) found opposite the first or second leaf above the proper bunch. After this first pinching or stopping, the foremost buds seen in the axils of the leaves again produce shoots, according to their vigour, as shown in fig. 9. L 114 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ May, These second shoots are called laterals, or summer lateral shoots, as shown in Chapter IV., fig. 2, E. (1874, p. 29). They should be stopped in the same way immediately beyond the first leaf, as at «, and so on again and again throughout the season, as they may continue to grow. The leading shoot of a young Vine is, of course, to be exempted from this stopping, excepting in so far as relates to the laterals it produces ; and these, if space is limited, must be stopped in the manner just explained, or they may be trained out in the same manner as the proper shoots, and allowed to extend and occupy as much space as may be available. It should always be borne in mind that the greater the quantity of properly developed leaves and shoots, the more power¬ ful must be the root-action, and the more vigorous the plant. The stopping of the shoots of a Vine should not in any sense be considered as a checking or repressing of its vigour, but rather as a guiding or directing of its energies into certain channels of a more desirable and beneficial character than they would follow if left to themselves. — A. F. Barron, Chiswick. THE ECONOMY OF LABOUR IN GARDENS. lULL fifty years ago, edges of raw earth were in full vogue as the boundary¬ lines of grass lawns, verges, &c., adjoining walks, drives, and other roads about a nobleman’s or gentleman’s grounds and gardens, — that is to say, almost the whole of the grass edgings were cut with an edging-knife, instead of with the shears, once or twice in the year, but more particularly in spring, when the walks and roads were repaired or renovated. Then the line was placed, and the knife or edging-iron set to work, to pare off a thin slice, leaving an even but raw edging, on which the frost, the dry weather, and the parching winds might each exert their influence, as they did most effectually, mellowing, pulverising, and loosening the earth, for the worms to cast up, the ants to work through and through, the birds to scratch down, and the heavy hasty rains and rapid storms to wash away, in order to choke the drains, leaving the soft sediment to settle in the low uneven spots about the walk or road, there to form seed-beds upon which the seeds of grass or weeds that may also have been washed down, might vegetate luxuriantly ; or in dry, hot weather, to crack and curl up into skin-thick flakes of dirt. At all events, during the whole year it was but a sorry unsightly edging, for where the soil was stocked with the roots of our wild convolvulus, dandelion, or other obnoxious plants, they would assuredly thrust themselves through, to show their pretty or gaudy flowers, and to seed, too, if left a short time. To be sure, there were here and there to be found little places where by the patient use of large sheep-shears or hedge-shears, for clipping the grass edgings, instead of cutting them with the edging-knife, they were tolerably neatly kept, but such cases were exceptional. Some forty years since or more, in Loudon’s Gardeners’ Magazine — which was about the only horticultural work in those days in which there was any chance of exposing an abuse, or of relating any useful or practical facts in the way of 1875. ] NEW PRIMROSES. 115 improvements, I took to writing down and condemning this system of cutting raw edges to roads and walks. This had the almost immediate effect of doing away in great measure with the absurd custom, driving it, to a very great extent, into the corner of curiosities, and setting men’s minds on the improvement of edging- shears, with the result that very soon improved articles were introduced for our use, and these have since been very much further improved, especially in regard to lightness and convenience for expeditious and handy working. But after all, I have been somewhat surprised in my rambles during the last five or six years to see the old raw-edge system is still practised to a much greater extent than I was led to think, or imagine, could be the case ; and that, too, in places where one would not think it likely, in these days of improvement, neatness, and economy of labour, to meet such an ancient curiosity still in vogue. The greatly improved appearance which results from securing a nicely kept, evenly clipped green grass edging close down to the gravel, or other material of which the walks and roads may be made, instead of the old edging of raw earth, makes it all the more astonishing that we still in some places meet with this slovenly and dirty system. Surely it must be from lack of thought or observation. — James Barnes, Exmouth. NEW PRIMROSES. @HE basket of the beautiful single mauve Primrose exhibited at the February meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society, under the name of Primula ¥altaica (which, by the way, it is not), gave an agreeable foretaste of the exquisite pleasure afforded to all lovers of hardy flowers by a contemplation of some of the new varieties of Primroses which have been raised of late. For forty years past, if not longer, this pretty Primrose has been growing in an old rectory garden near Bristol, but how it originated no one knows. It is grown round London as P. altaica , but we cannot get infused into it the size and depth of colour seen in the Bristol flowers. A few years ago I found in an old-fashioned garden in the South of England that beautiful maroon-crimson variety I subsequently named and distributed as P. vulgaris auricula; flora , which looks like an Alpine auricula, and which every one who cultivates it so much admires. Finding the last-named seeded a little, I set to work to raise seedlings from it, and though it mostly gave me somewhat inferior repetitions of itself, it yet threw a few seedlings having shades of violet and purple. These were fertilised one with the other, having regard to the neces¬ sity for obtaining form and colour, and a few years’ work has produced a progeny of great beauty and striking qualities, as those called Violet Gem , violacea , and Splendour bear witness, for they have obtained First-class Certificates of Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. Almost all shades of colour have resulted,, especially in the way of hues of red ; two or three of these are particularly noticeable, viz. : — Gem of Roses , pale rosy magenta, with golden centre ; Rosy Morn , rosy crimson, flushed with magenta ; and Sunrise , fiery-red maroon. All l 2 116 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ May, these have the fine golden centre peculiar to auriculcejlora. One of my greatest favourites is violacea , which has large, bright, rosy-violet flowers, with golden centres ; it is a very early bloomer, and extremely free. This season it was in full flower in March, planted out in a cold frame. I winter all these Primroses in this way, planting them in October in a fine light rich soil, in which they can root freely. The lights are kept close only in excessively wet or severe weather, and removed when a gleam of sunshine or breath of mild air can fall on the flowers. Another cross has brought an extremely interesting progeny. In this case, the above-named single mauve Primrose, which is a pin-eyed form, was made the seed-parent, and P. vulgaris auriculcejlora , which is a finely-shaped thrum-eyed flower, was the pollen-parent. Some twelve or fourteen seedlings came from this cross, all of them having the habit of the seed-parent, and all of mauve shades, but as a whole, deeper in colour ; some pin-eyed, a few thrum-eyed, larger in the pip, rounder and stouter also. Three or four of these are singularly beautiful, and in their improved form, substance, and depth of colour show the effects of the pollen-parent. This season I hope to cross these with Splendour , violacea, and other fine types, and look for cheering results. We want a fine pure white common Primrose. I have seen several, but the flowers are small, rough, and flimsy. I have, however, two or three seedling whites that are decided improve¬ ments, and I hope that in a few years we shall have fine pure white varieties, rivalling auriculcejlora and violacea in size and quality. — B. Dean, Ealing. PELARGONIUM RIENZI. fN the accompanying figure it is not difficult to recognise some of the highest qualities which have been secured in the race of Pelargoniums bred between ?P. inquincins and P. zonale , and which are familiar in our gardens under the old-fashioned name of Scarlet Geraniums. Dr. Denny, who is the fortunate raiser of this variety, Bienzi , has done very much towards improving the flowers of this race, for not only has he, as in this case, realised perfection of form, but he has in some other of his varieties secured another most important property — durability, in consequence of which the petals hold on almost or quite until they wither. The ephemeral nature of the flowers, especially in hot sunny weather, is a serious demerit in some fine sorts, and is specially conspicuous in the variety called Jean Sisley, which is otherwise one of the most charming of the pure scarlets. Mr. Cannell describes Bienzi as a robust grower, of good habit, the flowers of a soft slightly- tinted scarlet, in trusses of fair size, freely pro¬ duced. As regards form and quality of flower, Bienzi may fairly claim precedence of any variety hitherto introduced, and to be the true type of a florist’s flower, possessing almost to perfection all the prescribed qualities — namely, smoothness of texture, with substance, size, and form, the petals being unusually large, and boldly rounded off, and their size causing them very considerably to overlap each other, in fact to such an extent that the lower petal (which resembles that of the finest pansy) can be removed, and the four remaining ones are sufficient to com- 1875. ] GARDEN GOSSIP. 117 plete tlie circle. When well grown each, pip exceeds 2 in. in diameter, as may be seen by the accompanying copy of a photograph taken in November, at which season this and many other varieties are in the zenith of their splendour. — M. Pelargonium Denny’s Rienzi. GARDEN GOSSIP. MONGST the novelties produced at the Royal Horticultural Society’s meet¬ ing on April 7, was Geonoma gracilis , from Mr. B. S. Williams, a slender palm, with finely-cut leaves, having a good deal of general resemblance to Cocos Weddelliana, and in regard to elegance of character, running that well-known favourite very closely. Mr. Williams received for it a First-class Certificate, as he did also for another palm, Martinezia erosa, a pinnate species, with broad erose-tipped segments, the stem and under-surface of the leaves bristling with dark-coloured slender spines. Messrs. Yeitch and Sons had a fine single red Hyacinth called Etna, one of those in which a few petaloid organs appear in the mouth of the flower-tube, but which are yet scarcely so much as semi-double ; it is a fine rosy-red, with the segments remarkably broad, smooth, and plane, the edges being somewhat paler; it had a First-class Certificate. Messrs. Yeitch also gained a similar award for Croton Disraeli, a very remarkable form of the Croton, in which the elongated leaf-blade is widened towards the apex, then suddenly contracted there, while the base is distinctly three-lobed ; it is handsomely marked with yellow ribs and veins. C. Lord Cairns is similar in form and marking, but inferior. They had also C. tortile , a twisted-leaved species in the way of spiralis, but dark-coloured ; C. variahile, a strong grower, with long narrow but irregular leaves, which come finely coloured ; and C. appendiculata, a 118 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ Mi.y, small green-leaved sort, remarkable for the thread-like continuations of the midrib being furnished with peltate terminal lobes. Mr. Bull gained First-class Certificates for two Dracctncis of dwarf habit, and which in other respects might be grown as a pair, namely, D. insignis, which is naturally of small size and close-growing, and has erecto-patent, bronzy leaves, margined with rose or crimson. The other, named D. Candida , is also a dwarf com¬ pact-growing plant, with green leaves, the upper of which are freely variegated with white. A similar award wa3 given to Mr. Bull for Crinum brachynema , a tall stove bulb, with handsome drooping fragrant white flowers. Messrs. Veitch also exhibited the fine hybrid Sarracenia Stevuisii ; Camellia Maihotiana rosea, a good imbricated rosy-pink form which had sported from the white form ; and a white-spathed Arad or Orontiad of some promise, under the pro¬ visional name of Spat hiphy Hum Wallisii. Mr. G. F. Wilson had a well-bloomed plant of the pretty Indian Primula pidcherrima. Grand specimens of Dendrobium densijlorum, with 28 flower-spikes, from Mr. Staples, gardener to Mrs. Candy, of Sevenoaks ; and of D. nobile Wallichianum, from Mr. Moore, gardener to W. C. Pickersgill, Esq., of Bexley, obtained well- merited Cultural Certificates. - 2Tiie Per-centage of Improved Novelties amongst Florists’ Flowers , that is to say, the results of cross-breeding amongst this particular class of plants, is thus stated by a correspondent of the Gardeners’ Magazine : — “ Mr. Keynes, of Salisbury, sows every year, and has done for many years past, 30,000 Dahlia seeds, and he has averaged about ten named flowers every year for some twenty years or more, which is a very small per-centage — it is one-thirtieth per cent. ; in this case it would seem that many good flowers must be lost, for 30,000 seedling Dahlias ought to give at least thirty varieties worth naming, or, say, one-tenth per cent. The late Mr. John Salter estimated that seedling Chrysanthemums worth naming averaged one in 2,000 plants, or one-twentieth per cent. Mr. Downie grows 500 Pentstemons or Phloxes to get ten first-rate novelties, this being at the high rate of two per cent. In the raising of plants that admit of manipulation, such as Pelargoniums, the rate is still higher, the result, no doubt, of the control the raiser exercises. In the case of Dahlias and Chrysanthemums, the raiser has not much control, but he selects the seed-parents and watches over the growth of the seed, and that is control to some ex¬ tent. There are cases in which the cross-breeder goes direct to his work, and having in his mind’s eye exactly what he wants, ensures it right off ; but this is not an every-day business.’’ - ^he subject of Double or Fasciated Hyacinth Spikes has naturally reappeared, now that the exhibitions have again come round. An objection was taken that these should not be allowed to be shown as single spikes, but every one knows that the finest spikes are those which come more or less fasciated, and surely no one would wish that the best spikes should not appear at our exhibitions. But as a fasciated spike, usually the result of extreme vigour, is but the early union of two spikes thrown up from one crown, it does not seem very reasonable to reject them, if a similar crown happens to throw them up more or less separated. And if fasciated spikes are admissible, why not those which in their early formation, instead of becoming united, continue as two, three, or even more distinct spikes ? It has been objected that the single or the fasciated spike are thrown up directly from the centre of the bulbs ; whereas if there are more than one, it is not a single bulb, but two or more confined within an outer sheath, showing in fact the first stage towards a natural division into effects. This is so far true, but surely the produce from what is grown and sold as one bulb, should be admissible for show purposes. The double spikes are no advantage from this point of view, for all judges would prefer the bold well-pro¬ portioned symmetry of a really fine single spike to any amount of aggregation. - ^he most noticeable of recent introductions to the gardens at Curragh- more, as we learn from the Gardeners' Record , is the Wellingtonia gigantea aurea , a fine specimen of which is planted on a circular piece of grass at the termination of a very broad walk, leading from the upper terrace. It is a really grand plant, and is beautifully variegated from bottom to top, and in robust health. Mr. Hartland’s stock of this Wellingtonia consists of hundreds of fine plants, all splendidly variegated, and growing as freely as its green congener, besides thousands of smaller plants in various stages, all doing well. Being lifted annually, they move well. The original plant of this Golden Wellingtonia being a seedling, and not a sport, the constancy of the variegation is not to be wondered at. - JHessrs. Baer and Sugden have recently shown how our town house¬ tops may be utilised as Roof Conservatories , by erecting a very handsome glass 1875. ] GARDEN GOSSIP. 119 structure over their business premises in King Street, Covent Garden. In this way every householder at least might cultivate his own flowers or fruits, for Vines might be readily grown in such structures, if properly provided with the usual and necessary appliances of heat, moisture, and food. No doubt this is the best position that could be found for a greenhouse in the midst of a smoky town, as it would get all the light possible under such circumstances, and much more than it would in most cases obtain if erected on the ground-level. - iiftR. Ladd’s Grove of Gardenias , under glass, at Bexley Heath, is a sight worth seeing. The house is about 140 ft. long by 25 ft. wide, and wholly occupied by Gardenias, healthy, glossy bushes dotted over everywhere with their large and handsome green and white buds. The bushes are planted out, each on a mound of peaty soil, which rests on the hard floor of the house. Each plant stands on a hillock, and thus water may be abundantly used without injury. They do not root into the floor, but each bush finds its nutriment in the barrowful of soil or so in which it is planted. With plenty of heat and moisture, and frequent syringings, the plants grow apace, and there is no mealy-bug — their usual attendant and enemy — to be seen. On the floor and around the mounds the water lies in pools, as it might in a bog. The effect afforded by the bushes is like that of a healthy coffee plantation, though by-and-by, when the wThite waxy blossoms are opening freely, it will be very different. This and other plantations made by Mr. Ladd seem to point to the probability that much improvement may be effected by planting out subjects usually grown in pots. - $ftR. Meredith’s Vineyard at Garston lias been sold by the instructions of the mortgagees, the trustees under Mrs. Meredith’s marriage settlement, and the trustee in liquidation. It realised £10,000, the purchaser being Mr. John Cowan, of the Cowan Patents Company (Limited), London. The price realised is for the concern as it stands, and does not include goodwill ; and though inadequately representing the skill and labour and money expended on the business, is considered a fair value for an establishment so peculiarly situated. Much sympathy is felt for Mr. Meredith in the circum¬ stances that have led to a change of proprietary, and it is hoped that the new owners will con¬ tinue the Vineyards in their present flourishing state, and maintain in its integi'ity an establishment that has brought so much repute to English Grape-growers. - £n reference to Foliage for “ button-holes ” of Rose-buds , the variety to be procured at all seasons of the year is very limited. The usual leaf or two of the Fairy Rose and spray of Maidenhair Fern, though supported by fine wires, rarely survive exposure in a hot room for more than six hours without flagging, even if kept in a tube of water ; while the Rose-bud, if so treated, will look well for a couple of days. A correspondent of the Gardeners' Chronicle remarks that these in winter are so costly that they are worth saving as long as they will last ; and he recommends the leaves of starved plants of the sweet-scented Balm of Gilead, Dracocephafum canariense, a small branch of which, that he had used, looking still fresh after five days. - £The frequent use of Apples , either before or after meals, has a most healthful effect upon digestion. It is said to be better to eat less meat, and more fruit. An eminent French physician thinks that the decrease of dyspepsia and bilious affections in Paris is owing to the increased consumption of Apples, which fruit, he maintains, is admirably prophylactic and tonic, as well as a very nourishing and easily- digested article of food. The Parisians are said to devour one hundred millions of Apples every winter — that is, they did before the war. Whether this estimate is true or not, never¬ theless the French are extravagantly fond of AppleB and other fruit. - ®he old Clematis montana is found to be a most useful decorative spring plant, when grown in small pots, flowering freely about April. Both this and C. indivisa lobata bloom in dense clusters, and though the blossoms are much smaller than those of the C. patens type, they are produced in even larger numbers, which is an important compensatory quality. They may be grown either trained into a small cone by means of a few stakes tied together at the top, or like little loose-headed standards by tying them to a centre stick, and allowing a portion of the top to spread loosely. 120 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ MAY, — - - ££he following receipt for Preserving Wooden Labels is from the Garden : — After the wooden labels are made, soak them in a strong solution of sulphate of iron. Let them dry, and place them in lime-water, giving time for the lime-water to permeate the wood thoroughly. Insoluble sulphate of lime will be formed throughout the pores of the wood, which will prevent the absorption of water, and conse¬ quently prevent rotting. Twine used for tying up plants may be similarly preserved. ■ - learn from the Comptes Rendus , that MM. Becquerel have ex¬ perimentally determined that the temperature below the soil, when the surface has been denuded, in frosty weather is much lower than when the soil is covered with turf. But it ought to be added that arable land is quickly warmed by the s\mshine of spring, wdiile land covered with turf absorbs heat more slowly. - HylR. J. E. Gray died at his residence at the British Museum, on March 7, aged 75. At an early age he formed a strong liking for natural science, and prepared the systematic part of the Natural Arrangement of British Plants , published by his father, in two volumes, in 1821. Dr. Gray was President of the old Botanical Society of London ; and he held for many years the position of Keeper of Zoology in the British Museum, which he resigned only in December last. He was a generous friend to science and to those who had scientific tastes. - $&R. Robert Lancashire, of Middleton, Lancashire, died on March 12, in his 77th year. He was a sound cultivator of the Auricula, Carnation, Dahlia, and Rose ; a thorough florist, and the raiser from seed of that fine Auricula, Lancashire Hero, a variety which has been regarded by leading fanciers as the most perfect hitherto produced, and which will be a leading flower in collections for years to come. - |He. j. D. Hextall, of Ashby-de-la-Zouch, died on March 25, aged 87. He was an enthusiastic cultivator of Tulips, Carnations, and other flowers, and his pleasant face, beaming with good-humour, was constantly looked for at the various Shows. At the National Tulip Exhibition held at Aston, Birmingham, in May last, he was as devoted as ever to his work, though suffering from failing sight. Time is rapidly thinning the ranks of the old school of florists. - Thomas Bewley, Esq., died at his residence, Rockville, Blackrock, near Dublin, on April 5. Mr. Bewley’s name has been long known in connection with horticultural affairs, and as cultivator of Orchids, Ferns, and other plants, he was remarkably successful ; indeed, the collection now existing at Rockville is, perhaps, second to none in Ireland. In private life ho was greatly esteemed among a wide circle of friends, for his kindness, benevolence, and generosity, and in him horticultiire has lost one of its most liberal, genuine, and staunch supporters. - EOIaniel Hanbury, Esq., died on March 24, at his residence at Clapham Common. Amiable, accomplished, profoundly versed in his own special department of pharmacy, still in the prime of life, having done excellent work, capable and willing to do good service to science and to his fellow-creatures, he has been suddenly removod from us, leaving behind him an example to be followed, and a memory to be cherished. Mr. Hanbury was one of those who raise their business and themselves to a higher levol than that of more money-getting. His original investigations into the nature and history of drugs, and of the plants producing them, were minutely accurate, and his record of them was as judiciously terse. His magnum opus was the P/iannacographia, published quite lately in con¬ junction with Professor Fliickiger, of Strasburg. His brother’s garden at La Mortola — a veritable garden of acclimatisation — afforded him ample opportunity for indulging his garden¬ ing tastes, and in its formation, stocking, and management, Daniel Hanbury took the greatest interest. He was in his 50th year. W H Fitch del. Echevena Peacockn. .CKromo. G-.Severeyns Brussels' 1S75. ] THE CULTURE OF WALL-FRUITS. - CHAPTER III. 121 ECHEVERIA PEACOCKII. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. Jjf^OR tlie opportunity of figuring this very handsome species of Echeveria, GKv we are indebted to J. T. Peacock, Esq., of Sudbury House, Hammersmith, by whom it was imported, after whom it is named, and by whom it was first flowered in this country last July. It will be seen from our figure that it is one of the most remarkable of the family to which it belongs. It was originally described by Mr. Baker, in the Gardeners' Chronicle (1874, ii. , 258), under the name of Cotijledon Peacockii , and from this source we glean the following further particulars respecting it. This well-marked new species, which was discovered by M. Benedict Roezl, in New Mexico, comes nearest to the familiar and now widely-spread Cotyledon pumila , and rivals it in the intensely glaucous colour of its leaves and the per¬ sistence of their waxy coating, but it may be readily recognised at a glance by its larger size, much broader leaves, and spicate not ramose inflorescence. It is stemless, with about 50 obovate-spathulate leaves, forming a rosette about G in. broad and 4 in. high, the outer leaves 2-2-^ in. long, mucronate, slightly red towards the tip, densely persistently glaucous on both sides, the face in the outer spreading ones flat, in the inner rather concave, the backs faintly keeled. The flower-stem is lateral, slender, terete, reddish-brown, rather glaucous, a foot in height beneath the flowers, furnished with a few lanceolate appressed bract-like leaves ; the spike itself is scorpioid, a foot long, the bright red flowers distant below, close-set above, with glaucous lance-shaped bracts having two spurs at their base. The calyx-segments are linear, unequal ; the petals lanceolate acute, united at the base into a turgid hemispherical cup. We believe the stock imported by Mr. Peacock lias passed into the hands of the Messrs. Rollisson, of Tooting. The same plant has been recently exhibited under the name of E. Eesmetiana. It has obtained a First-class Certificate both from the Royal Horticultural and Royal Botanic Societies. — T. M. TIIE CULTURE OF WALL-FRUITS. Chapter III. — Roots. SEFORE leaving the subject of the Roots, I would call attention to another instance of the manner in which the condition of the branches of fruit-trees is apparently very much influenced by that of the roots, under a system of natural development, where the hand of man has not interfered to turn aside their original tendencies. Thus, supposing the seed of any of our stone- fruits, or the pip of an Apple or Pear, to be placed in a favourable position for growth and future development, we shall find that after it lias become sufficiently acted upon by the moisture in the earth, one of its first indications of vitality is to strike a tapering or tap-root directly downwards, and seeing that this is unat¬ tended by any simultaneous upward development at first, it is evidently of design, 3rd series. — VIII. m 1 22 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ June, in order that the preliminary stage of vital development shall be that part of the future plant which is intended to perform the important office of fixing it firmly in the ground. Moreover, as soon as this root is developed, its office of feeding com¬ mences ; the two halves of the seed are thrust up into the light and expand, and from the germ between them, which is the true axis of the physiologists, springs up a central stem, which soon begins to develop foliage ; and from that time the principle of reciprocal action is established. Deeper and deeper the root pene¬ trates into the earth, and higher and higher upwards grow the branches and foliage, each more or less, according to the constitutional tendencies of the plant, - — some making a large development from seed the first year, others only a weak one, though the principle of action is alike in both. The tendenc}'- of this process, if allowed to continue, would be a large develop¬ ment of stem upwards, and a corresponding development of the tap-root down¬ wards, and these exactly fulfil all the conditions necessary for the production of fine timber-trees which are never to be disturbed until utilised. But this natural process of development is entirely to be avoided in the culture of fruit-trees under control, and therefore one of the first operations connected with the preparation of stocks for fruit-trees, which are raised from seed, is to cut off the tap root to within 3 in. of the collar, or even less, if there are plenty of small rootlets radi¬ ating from below the collar; if more than this is left, the chances are that there will be a tendency to the formation of other large deep-striking roots, to the exclusion of the small radiating roots which it is so desirable to keep near the surface, so as to secure the full benefit of atmospherical influences. Nothing can well be worse for the operator than the presence of three or four large roots piercing deeply into the earth, and causing the trees to put forth a strong growth of unfruitful wood. All the operations connected with defoliation and branch management, or surface-dressing, or root-pruning by the ordinary method of cutting a deep trench all round the tree, will be rendered nugatory by the influence of these roots, and the only safe course is to lift the tree entirely out of its place, and remove the offending members. Practical instruction on this subject of root-pruning will, of necessity, be interwoven with other details of practice, as we proceed with our subject. I have been thus particular in remarking upon the various tendencies to be counteracted in the roots, because the management of these is quite as important as that of the branches. The gardener — whether professional or amateur — will find a great advantage to result from studying these natural tendencies, and the way in which they react upon the growth. Indeed, without some such knowledge, success in very many cases will be more the result of chance, than of design following upon intelligent management. Such knowledge, too, will enable the operator to avoid a blind adherence to what may be considered as generally established points of management, but which may often be advantageously varied in their application by bringing intelligent observation to bear on the subject. I have noted many instances where the knife has been freely used upon 1875.] LANTANAS AS BEDDING PLANTS. — CIIAM.EROPS EXOELSA. 123 vigorous growing fruit-trees, and tlie result lias been wliat appears to be a leading notion in the minds of some operators, the production of a fine-looking symmetrical and well-furnished tree, but year after year very little fruit, although frequently such trees produce a fair supply of blossoms. In such cases, from the vigorous habit of the tree, and the consequent copious supply of sap from the roots, the blossoms are thrown off, and the sap passes onwards to the production of more wood and foliage. Hence may be inferred the absolute necessity of establishing as complete a control over the growth of the roots as over that of the wood, and to do this in an intelligent manner we must be guided by a knowledge of the first principles which, in the foregoing chapters, I have endeavoured to make plain to the best of my ability. In succeeding chapters I hope to take the different sorts of wall fruits in detail, because, although there are general principles applicable to all, the application of them varies in detail, and it is by this that practice must be guided. — John Cox, Redleaf. LANTANAS AS BEDDING PLANTS. I1ESE charming plants make a most delightful feature in the flower-garden during the summer months, either planted out in beds or singly in borders. They succeed well in any rich loamy soil. They are very free growers, *q) and produce. their heads of flowers of various colours in great abundance. They will not endure much frost, and as the plants are generally very fine towards the autumn, some of the best should be carefully lifted with balls, potted, and put into a pit or frame for a few days, when they should be removed to the green¬ house, where they will continue in flower for several weeks. They are readily increased by cuttings, put into sandy soil, and plunged in a little bottom-heat. A stock of cuttings should be struck in the autumn, and wintered on the shelves of a greenhouse ; or the old plants, kept over winter, if put into an early vinery, will quickly furnish an abundance of young shoots, which, if taken off, inserted in sandy soil, and plunged in a little heat, will soon strike, and if potted off will make good plants for putting out-doors. Some of the varieties are so very striking and beautiful, and are so useful for cutting, that no garden should be without them, more especially as they are so readily increased and so easily wintered. — M. Saul, Stourton. CHAMAEROPS EXOELSA. MONG the hardier of the Fan Palms, the first place must bo assigned to the gonus Chamcerops , of which several species arc commonly cultivated. The subject of the accompanying illustrations, C. excelsci , is a native of the middle and south of China ; it has a stem of from 8 ft. to 12 ft. high, bearing leaves which are digitately multipartite, and attached by petioles which are unarmed or denticulate, and it produces dioecious flowers. The accompanying figures, indeed, which originally appeared in the Revue Ilorticole , were prepared by M, Carriere in order to show the very great difference which exists between the M 2 124 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST [ June, isrs..] hogg’s feuit manual. 125 plants of tlie different sexes when they reach the flowering stage, the male plants being, from this point of view, much to be preferred. In the case of the male plant ( C . excelsci mascula ), the inflorescence consists of a large and ample panicle of a deep yellow colour, at first erect, but afterwards drooping, with robust arcuate ramifications ; the flowers small, numerous, very closely set, of a fine deep orange-yellow, with yellow anthers. The female plant ( C . excelsci faemina) has a much smaller paniculate inflorescence, which is permanently erect, with distant spreading slender branches, the flowers small, but more distant, and of a greenish yellow, like the rachis. It flowers about April and May, and the seeds ripen from February to April of the following year, thus taking about a year to attain maturity. The accompanying figures show plainly the differences in the inflorescence of the two plants. — M. HOGG’S FRUIT MANUAL.* ®HE third edition of this Manual, forming a hand-book of some 400 pages, was published in 1866. The fourth has grown into an octavo volume of f 600 pages, accompanied by 56 pages of outline illustrations, representing 101 select varieties of Apples and Pears. The increased bulk has been made up partly by very numerous additions to the varieties of fruits described, and partly by the introduction of historical notes indicating the origin of many of these varieties, and which add immensely to the interest of the volume. Omit¬ ting the smaller and less important fruits, some 300 additional kinds of Apples have been described, about 150 additional Cherries, nearly 500 additional Pears, over 60 Plums, and about three dozen new Grapes. The additions have, in fact, been so numerous and important, that the volume is rather to be regarded as a new work than as a new edition. Moreover, since the author’s reputation as a pomologist is an ample guarantee of its general accuracy, it must be regarded as an indispensable book of reference to all who take interest in our cultivated fruits. Though eminently useful, or indeed, as we have just said, indispensable in the garden library, wre must give the author a friendly jog to remind him that the Fruit Manual is not yet perfect, and that more is yet expected of him. Some means might surely be found for classifying the varieties of all the different fruits, in such a way as to furnish a tolerably safe and easy means of identifying them — such a classification, in fact, as is given in the case of some of the fruits in the volume before us, under Almonds, Cherries, Plums, and Peaches, for instance, but which is not attempted in the case of Apples and Pears, the two most important of our common fruits. Difficult it may be in some cases to devise a system of classification, but then difficulties only exist to be overcome, and any mode of grouping which would lead up to the names of unknown fruits, would be so practically useful to those who have not had * The Fruit Manual ; containing the Descriptions, Synonyms, and Classification of the Fruits and Fruit- trees of Great Britain ; with a Hundred and One Engravings of the Best Varieties. By Eohert Hogg, LL.D., F.L.S., &c. Fourth Edition. London : Journal of Horticulture Office. 1875. 126 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [June, other facilities for becoming acquainted with them that no effort should be spared to realise it. In many fruits, again, Pears especially, there are strongly marked differences of flavour ; and we shall never rest satisfied until we get at least a list of the best varieties of each kind of fruit, grouped according to their flavour, of which certain well-known kinds should be put forward as the types. Thus amongst Pears there is the honey-like flavour of the Seckel, the musky flavour of William’s Bon Chretien, the noyeau-like flavour of Beurre Duhaume, the rose-water flavour of Beurre Hardy, the anise-flavour of Amiral, the almond¬ like flavour of Amande d’Ete, and there are certainly other distinct flavours amongst the many sorts classed as sugary, vinous, perfumed, and aromatic. We should be obliged to any of our correspondents who may either have already noted down, or who will at the proper season make exact records on this point, if they would favour us with materials towards the compilation of such a list. It would be extremely useful, for in this way, those who prefer any particular flavour or flavours would be much assisted in making their selections of trees. One other matter should, we think, have attention in any future editions, . namely, the means of identifying the different kind of stocks upon which fruit- trees of various kinds are grown. For the Apple we know there are the French Paradise* the English Paradise, the Doucin, the crab, and others ; for the Pear, the seedling pear and the quince ; for Peaches, the almond and various plums ; for Cherries* the seedling cherry and the Mahaleb ; but how little do cultivators in general know about the appearance and the influences of the several kinds of stocks used, all-important though the knowledge must be, as affecting both the permanence and the fertility of their trees. We are almost inclined to think that at least a portion of the plates would have been of more utility than they are in their present form, had they been devoted to the full illustration of the various fruit-tree stocks, so far as to afford the means of identifying them. A reference to accessible figures of standard fruits would also have taken little space, and been most useful to fruit-students. Though mentioning these as features which, if added, would certainly improve the Fruit Manual , and which we hope to see adopted hereafter, we nevertheless, in the meanwhile, thankfully accept the book as it is ; and we close it with the conviction that it is the best, indeed we might say the only authoritative modern publication on the subject to which it is devoted. — T. Moore, A FEW NOTES ON AURICULAS. HAVE missed the notes on this fine old flower that used to appear in the Florist from Mr. John Ball. No one was better able, from his large ex¬ perience, to write about them, either as regards culture or the best varieties to cultivate. There is one thing remarkable about this flower, and that is, that the old sorts grown nearly fifty years ago are still the best flowers, with but few exceptions. On comparing a list of the premier flowers exhibited this year at Manchester with another given in an old horticultural journal for the year 1875.] A FEW NOTES ON AURICULAS. 127 1834, I find that the best flowers of that year are to be found high on the list referred to. Taking green-edged flowers first, Colonel Taylor (Leigh) and Free¬ dom (Booth) had the highest marks in 1834; they are still the best green-edged flowers — indeed, Colonel Taylor had the premier prize as the best green-edge in the show at Manchester. Grey-edged flowers have been much improved since 1834 ; none of the old flowers approach George Liglitbody (Headly) or Richard Headly (Liglitbody), two grand flowers which are now becoming common ; and Alexander Meiklejohn, a new grey-edge, apparently a seedling between Conqueror of Europe and George Liglitbody, is also a magnificent flower, and took the premier prize at Manchester as the best flower in the show. Privateer (Grimes), Ringleader* (Kenyon), Complete (Sykes), &c., are still shown in the prize collections, and they held the highest positions in 1834. In that year the flower that obtained the highest number of marks in the white-edged class was Glory (Taylor), and this is still one of the best. Pillar of Beauty (Hughes) was the second-best white- edge. In seifs there lias been much improvement, still the self that took the premier position at the National Auricula Show — Othello (Netherwood) — was a popular flower in 1834. The highest on the list in that year was Flora’s Flag (Grimes), the second-best being Metropolitan (Redmain). Now, on looking over the lists of other Florists’ flowers, such as Pinks, Carna¬ tions, Pelargoniums, Dahlias, &c. — this last, by the way, was at the height of its popularity in that year — I find that not one of the flowers are now in the lists. It is not to be supposed that these old Auriculas are more easily to be obtained than the new sorts : in fact, they are more difficult, and not to be bought in the country. The following is a list of the best varieties, new and old : — Greek-edged. Admiral Napier (Campbell). Apollo (Beeston). Duke of Wellington (Dickson). Freedom (Booth). Champion (Page), very rare. General Neil (Traill). Alderman Wisbey (Headly). Lady Richardson (Gairns). Lycurgus (Smith). Prince of Greens (Traill), neAv and rare. Prince of Wales (Ashton). Colonel Taylor (Leigh). Grey-edged. Colonel Champneys (Turner). Conqueror of Europe (Water- house). Goneral Bolivar (Smith). George Liglitbody (Headly). Alexander Meiklejohn (Kay). George Levick (Walker). Miss Giddings (Read). Ne Plus Ultra (Fletcher). Richard Headly (Liglitbody). Ringleader (Kenyon). Robert Traill (Liglitbody). Lancashire Hero (Lancashire). Alderman C. Brown (Headly). Unique (Dickson). Unique (Maclean). Mary Ann (Fletcher). Maria (Chapman). White-edged. Catharina (Summorscales). Glory (Taylor). Smiling Beauty (Heap). Favourite (Taylor). John Waterson (Cunningham). Model (Gairns). Ne Plus Ultra (Smith). True Briton (Ilopworth). Countess of Wilton (Chatham). Omega (Turner). Arabella (Headly). Bright Venus (Lee). Seles. Blackbird (Spalding). Crown Princo (Turner). Charles J. Perry (Turner). Eliza (Sims). Formosa (Smith). Othello (Netherwood). Lord Clyde (Liglitbody). Master Hole (Turnor). Mrs. Smith (Smith). Mrs. Sturrock (Martin). Vulcan (Sims). Potronello (Headly). Pizarro (Campbell). Metropolitan (Spalding). Topsy (Kay). Lord Lome (Campbell). The above list contains nearly all tlie best flowers that have been exhibited this year. I have finished potting to-day (May 18). The drainage becomes choked, and the rich surface-dressing applied in February becomes sour, and it is as well, therefore, to turn the plants out of the pots, and to repot as soon as 128 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ June, possible after the blooming time is over. The compost used is not rich : a fourth- part of rotted manure, and a small quantity of leaf-mould and sand is added to the turfy loam, just enough to keep it open. Thorough drainage is essential. I find that if any of the plants become water-logged they soon show it. Ventila¬ tion is the point next in importance ; give all the air possible at all times, from now until October ; remove the lights from the frames night and day, except when it rains. A gentle shower will do no harm to the green-leaved sorts, but it splashes the meal on the foliage of those that have white leaves. Propagation is slow work in the case of some of the varieties ; others increase rapidly. When in Scotland last year, Mr. Meiklejohn, one of the largest growers, showed me a plant of Alexander (Stretch) that had not thrown an offset for six years ; it had a long stem, and showed buds where the leaves had decayed. Now, in a case of this kind cut the head off, and pot it in a small pot in some light material ; do not water it for twenty-four hours. Place a bell-glass over it closely for a few days at first, afterwards tilt the glass a little, and with care this top will soon throw out roots, while the old stump will also speedily show signs of life, and many cuttings will be obtained from it. As to cleanliness, green¬ fly is a serious pest, and must not be allowed on any of the plants. Remove it with a small camel-hair brush, or by fumigating. — J. Douglas, Loxford Hall Gardens , Ilford , Essex . TYING-DOWN VINE-SHOOTS. *N Mr. Barron’s eminently practical remarks on “Vines and Vine-Culture,” in the Florist, he says, at p. Ill, that “the young shoots of a Vine, 11^ especially when they are growing vigorously, are exceedingly tender, and V easily broken, so that the work of tying them down into their proper position on the wires or trellises to which the plants are trained requires a great amount of care and patience.” Mr. Barron is quite right ; the work does require care and patience, which also means considerable time ; and as at this busy season no gardener has more of this to spare than he knows what to do with, I am induced to call the attention of your readers to a method of rapidly and efficaciously getting over this work, which I saw in operation a few days ago in Sir Henry Peek’s garden at Wimbledon House. Instead of using bast in the earlier stages of the work, Mr. Ollerliead, the gardener, has called into requisition some tolerably strong copper wire, which is cut into lengths varying from 6 to 18 in., and rapidly made into the form of the letter S, one end of which is put round the trellis-wire, and the other round the shoot. In a few days, the shoot so treated will be strong enough to bear bringing a little lower down, when the S-hook is contracted to the required length, and the work is done in much less time than it takes to describe. When brought down by easy stage into their proper places, the shoots are tied in the ordinary way, and the wire is straightened out and put away for use another year. It is astonishing how quickly a house of Vines maybe gone over in this way, and I strongly recommend 1875. ] TWO NEW FUCHSIAS. 129 tlie plan to all wlio have not heard of it before — those who have done so will not require any recommendation. So far as I can learn, the first person to adopt this plan was Mr. Hopwood, gardener to F. Gye, Esq., Springfield House, Wandsworth Eoad, one of the largest private growers of Grapes in the London district. — Sabina. TWO NEW FUCHSIAS. F the many novelties amongst Fuchsias which have lately been acquired, few are more strikingly distinct or more desirable than those of which we t{G) subjoin illustrations, which have been kindly lent to us by Mr. H. Cannell, to who is not only well known as an expert, and also as a first-prizeman in Fuchsia- culture, but who has also, for some few years, been devoting his energies to the establishment of a first-class nursery for the propagation and sale of these and other soft-wooded plants. Fuchsia Mrs. II. Cannell was sent out last year, but is a standard variety which will not soon be displaced. We saw blooms of it in 1873 which were the most perfect we have yet met with amongst the double whites, being remarkable for their large size and faultless form, for the unusual purity of their compactly- 130 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ June, set double corolla, and for the brilliancy of the bold short sepals, which arc broad and reflexed in the most graceful of curves. It is said to be quite equal to the best of the dark-coloured doubles in habit and style of growth, and is no doubt a wonderful advance on all of its class that have preceded it. The plant is described as resembling, in every way except in colour, Henderson’s Avalanche, which is regarded as one of the best Fuchsias in cultivation. It was raised by Mr. Swaffield, of Bournemouth. Fuchsia Swanky Gem is one of the novelties raised by E. Banks, Esq., wh.ose name is as a household word amongst the growers of Fuchsias. In this variety the tube and sepals are of a coral-scarlet, the latter being prettily reflexed, while its frilled or wavy corolla is of a beautiful rose-colour. 44 It very rarely occurs,” re¬ marks Mr. Oannell, 44 that we get any really different shape in the Fuchsia that can be said to be attractive, but in this instance the engraving conveys but a very inadequate idea of the beauty of this variety, which must be seen to be appre¬ ciated. Depend upon it, this strange shape of flower, and its freedom of blooming and splendid habit, will ultimately make it a general favourite.” — T. Moore. GARDEN WORK FOR JUNE. FLOWERS. @HE great majority of sub-tropical plants may now be planted out, provided they have been well hardened off. It will be found of the greatest ad- vantage in encouraging healthful growth to have the soil frequently k r> OO keep all. free from weeds, and to get each kind requiring such aid finally and permanently thinned out. Nor must there be alack of artificial waterings, should the weather prove at all dry, as it is at this particular time, when all subjects are in full growth, that such aids are of so great importance. Let all superfical waterings be given freely, either in the very early morning or evenings of warm dry days, and if diluted manure-water can be used, so much the better. Attend to the necessary transplanting of Autumn Cauliflowers , Broccolis (the Walclieren and Snow’s Winter White), Brussels Sprouts , Coleworts (such as Rosette and Little Pixie), &c., always taking advantage of a showery period to do so, as the seedling-plants succeed infinitely better when transplanted thus than they possibly can do when u set out ” during hot arid weather. Pinch back the points of Broad Beans immediately the blooms have “ set ” and the young pods have formed. Make successional sowings of Dwarf French Beans , Broad Beans (of the Early Long-pod section), Peas , Carrots (of the Early or Short Horn kinds), to insure a successional supply of young tender produce. Keep all recently planted-out Tomatos, Vegetable Marrows, Capsicums , Bidge Cucumbers , Sweet Basil , all of which should have been planted out with the advent of the month, well watered, that they may make a strong healthy start, as accord¬ ing to the earlier growth, whether robust or weakly, so will be the future success, or otherwise of the crops. Towards the middle of the month the last spring or early-summer sowings of Spinach , Turnips , Cabbages , and Cauliflowers should be made, and if possible, upon a cool moist site ; always doing this if possible in showery weather. It is desirable also to sow during such periods, a batch of Lettuce , of Endive , and of Radishes , as catch crops, and to assist the regular periodical sowings, because even though they may be sown within a week or two of other similar sowings, they invariably become fit for use, and prove often the more meritorious productions, at a time distinct from the others, and will generally stand more hot sunshine than such as “come up” under less kindly circumstances. Give to all Cucumbers abundance of air at this time, both by day and night ; and supply daily libations of tepid water about 4 p.m., immediately before shut¬ ting down the frames, to encourage a constant and free growth. Finally, trans¬ plant the earlier trenches of Celery ; let the trenches be very liberally manured, and souse them thoroughly with water immediately before and after planting. It is customary to form early trenches upon ground from which the early crop of Peas has been picked. Our plan has been to dig the trenches out during the winter, upon the ridges of which crops are grown. — William Earley, Valentines. THE CONDOR PEACH. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. 'E received the specimens of this handsome Peach from which our drawing was made, last summer, from Messrs. Rivers and Sons, of Sawbridge- worth. The sample we obtained was about medium size, of a roundish, depressed figure, with a deep suture, terminated by a small nipple-like point. The surface was very finely downy, and the whole fruit tinted as if washed over rather lightly with pale rosy-red, the colour not being very dark at any point, while towards the crown it became a little marbly. The flesh was whitish, slightly blotched with red about the stone, and very juicy, rich, and piquant in flavour. Our examples were received about the end of July, and had therefore probably been grown under glass. The variety is said to have been raised from Early Silver, ij < Si 1 134 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ June, and to be a large peach, of a bright crimson-colour, ripening early in September. The glands of the leaves are reniform. — T. Moore. TENACITY OF LIFE IN A VINE WITHOUT BOOTS. «URING the past winter a new Vine-border was formed, and when the old > and apparently worn-out Vines were cut out, a piece of the stem of one of them was inadvertently left in the opening in the front wall, where the Y Vino passed from the border into the house. From this two strong eyes burst forth into the structure, no doubt stimulated by the heat from the pipes along the front, which were warmed to keep out frost from plants wintered in the vinery ; an examination was made to find roots, but the stem was found cut across by the front plate, and quite rootless. As the border was formed, soil was placed close up to this piece of wood, and in the course of a few weeks the Vines have grown with great vigour, and are nearly at the top of the rafters. They are very strong, short-jointed, and healthy. When sunny weather set in they flagged for a few days, but afterwards recovered, and grew with increased vigour. Young plants which were planted in March are not half the length of the two rods from the piece of old stem, and not nearly so strong. An old Vine which was cut and thrown into a position where there was a little warmth, threw up some strong shoots about a foot high before they drooped. Judging from these and other facts, I do not think it necessary to warm the Vine-borders before the Vines are set to work with heat and moisture.— -Observer. GORDON’S PINETUM .* jN this volume we have the one standard English book which is devoted to the Ooniferse ; and in this new edition, which is supposed to be posted fljf up to the present date, those who take interest in the study and cultiva- V tion of this noble order of plants will find all the most important novelties described. The author had ample opportunity, in his capacity of Arboretum Superintendent at Chiswick, to lay a good foundation, upon which his more modern observations have been built up, and hence we have a book which those who desire the information may take as a reasonably safe guide to a true knowledge of these plants, though upon particular points, especially on questions of affinity, other authorities may hold different views. The Introduction contains a useful classified table of the genera, which would, however, be improved if, by means of a change of type or a synoptical arrangement, the distinctive characteristics of each genus had been more clearly indicated. In the text the genera are taken up alphabetically, while the species, whenever numerous, are grouped in sections. It is thus very easy to find the description of a particular plant, even without recourse to the full index of specific names, which forms a very commendable feature of the work. * The Pinetum: being a Synopsis of all the Coniferous Plants at present known , with Descriptions , History , and Synonyms , which are cultivated in the rich collection of Messrs. Veitch and Sons, at Combe-wood Nursery, near Kingston, Surrey. The two first mentioned are from the Boskoop collection, the remainder from that of Messrs. Veitch : — Querous salicifolia, of Siebold. — This species is of bushy habit, many- branched, the branches being thin, and of a greenish-black colour. The leaves are truly saliciform, undulated, crenate, 4 in. to 5 in. long, and 1 in. wide. The young leaves are of a reddish colour. Quercus betifera. — In this Oak the habit is pyramidal, the branches being stout, and of a brownish green. The leaves are 4 in. to 5 in. long, 1 in. to 14- in. 200 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ September, wide, lanceolate, the margin, for the greater part of its length, sharply and deeply toothed, terminating in a long point, dark green above, light green beneath, a little twisted. The buds are round, downy, brown. Quercjus bambusifolia. — The habit of this tree is densely bushy, the branches erect and spreading, some becoming deflexed, slender, virgate. The young shoots QuercuS: — 7, salicifolia ; 8, setifera. are angular, glabrous, and olive-coloured. The leaves are about 4 in. long, in. wide, exactly lanceolate, serrulate with apiculate teeth, dark shining green above, glaucous beneath, tapering at the base into a yellowish petiole about half an inch long. The leaf-buds are minute, ovoid, acute, with ovate glabrous scales. Of this Oak, Messrs. Veitch possess a fine specimen, some 12 ft. high, with elegant, somewhat drooping foliage, resembling that of a narrow-leaved Willow, but of a 1875. ] NEW JAPANESE EVERGREEN OAKS. 201 much deeper colour. The tree is stated to be a native of China, and is referred by Seemann to the Q. salicina of Blume, but Messrs. Veitch’s plant is Japanese. According to herbarium specimens, Q. salicina has very narrow entire and nearly sessile leaves, while in the Chinese Q. bambusifolia the leaves are minutely and sharply toothed, and provided with short stalks. 202 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGHST. [ September, Quercus sclerophylla, of Lindley. — This species is an introduction of Mr. Fortune’s from North China, and is figured in Paxton's Flower Garden i. 59, fig. 37. The branches are glabrous ; the leaves are Gin. long, 3 in. broad, bright green above, glaucous beneath, coriaceous, oblong-acuminate, and coarsely serrated near the apex. Dr. Lindley describes it as a “ very fine thing,” as indeed is shown by the annexed outline figure from a leaf of one of Messrs. Yeitch’s plants. Though some of these Evergreen Oaks may have succumbed to one or other of the great frosts which proved so fatal to many similar plants, still, for the southern and western districts of England, for Ireland, or even for the west coast of Scotland, such plants might still be planted by connoisseurs with a reasonable hope of their ultimate survival. Quercus Burgerii, of Blume. — A fine plant, with bushy habit, the shoots spreading, angular, olive-coloured, ultimately smoky-brown. The leaves are 5-6 in. long by 1 J-lf in. broad, leathery, dark shining green above, paler beneath, oblong lanceolate, with a long acumen, entire or slightly crenate-serrate near the point, tapering at the base into a yellow petiole 1 in. in length, which spreads horizontally, and is slightly winged near the top. The buds are glabrous, globose, becoming ovoid, and having blunt, suborbicular scales. The species is described as having tomentose shoots, and some of the dried specimens show this. In the cultivated plant, however, the shoots are glabrous. Of this species, two varieties are culti¬ vated in the Oombe-wood collection, namely : Q. Burgerii pyramidalis , which is distinct as a garden form in its pyramidal habit, shorter leaves, and oblong scales. The shoots of this are angular, glabrous, of an olive-brown colour ; the leaves being 4-5 in. long, nearly 2 in. broad, leathery, light green above, paler beneath, oblong, entire or undulate, with a long, often twisted, acumen, tapering at the base into a yellow spreading petiole 1 in. in length ; and the buds oblong obtuse, with glabrous, oblong, obtuse scales, slightly membranous at the edges. Q. Burgerii robusta , a robust-growing shrub, with stout ascending branches, altogether of stouter habit than the others ; the shoots are nearly cylindrical, clear olive-brown, ultimately darker ; the leaves are 5-6 in. long, nearly 2 in. broad, leathery, dark green above, paler beneath, oblong, with a comparatively short and abrupt acumen, entire or undulate, the base rounded, and the petiole l^in. long, reddish above, yellow beneath, not at all winged; while the buds are ovoid, with glabrous, ovate, pointed, reddish scales. The three forms here referred to Q. Burgerii are distinguished readily from Q. glabra by their longer petioles and more decidedly acuminate leaves. — T. Moore. GOSSIP ABOUT TULIPS. «AST season — as it may now be termed, being over and passed — cannot be regarded as having been one of the most favourable for the Tulip, or indeed of any other florists’ flower, although, so far as I have seen, their ^ growth has been good, the bloom has been good, and the bulbs have proved to be of fair average size, which, after so doubtful a season, is matter of con- 1S75. ] GOSSIP ABOUT TULIPS. 203 gratulation to tlie growers. September and October last, tbe months for pre¬ paring the ground, and making up the beds for the reception of the bulbs, were wet, with sharp frosts at nights ; and November, the usual time for planting, was, after the first week, mostly unfavourable, since there was much rain, with keen frosty nights. During its first twelve days, however, I managed to get in three beds out of ten ; then I was stopped by the frost up to the middle of January, when in the wet and mud I managed to get in two more beds, and was again stopped until the middle of February, when, having five beds to plant, I commenced again, but did not make a finish until quite late in February. Strange to say, the five last planted beds came up, grew, and did equally as well, or even better, than the three beds planted in the fore part of November. The two beds planted in January did by far the worst ; many of the roots rotted in the ground, and those which survived broke up into small withered offsets. With the exception of those two beds, I never had a finer growth, or a better prospect of a fine bloom, up to the morning of May 23, six days before the National show- day, when we had one of the most fearful thunder and hailstorms I can recollect ; the storm lasted over half-an-hour, hailstones like lumps of ice of the size of marbles, with blustering winds, cutting down the blooms and the grass of the plants as if they had been put through some chopping-machine. Cabbages, Rhubarb, and young plants of different vegetables were also completely spoiled. The early part of that morning was clear, and the sun was very hot, which caused the blooms to spread themselves quite open, and the storm came on very suddenly while the flowers were in that open state. I had only just time to get the cover on the one bed I protect for showing from, and even on that bed some of the flowers were injured by heavy rain and hail beating through the cover, but with all, I don’t suppose a finer bloom of Tulips has been witnessed during 1875 than this bed contained. From my collection of seedling breeders I have some of the finest breaks I ever had in any one year previous to the present, but unfortunately, with the exception of one flower which happened to have a bell-glass placed over it, all the others were cut up before I had time to tally them. Thus ends my first story, which I think will be vouched as correct by any Tulip-growing friends. As I have on several occasions been asked by some of our younger fanciers to give them advice on the growth and management of this flower, and on the preparation of the beds, &c., and as the season is now coming on for commencing operations towards another season’s growth, I will offer a few hints that may be useful. The first requisites are the Soil, and the proper Preparation of the Beds. Those who may have ground which is tolerably fresh, loamy, or sandy, will, for the first season’s growth, only require a good dusting of quick-lime, sifted through a sieve with half-inch meshes, the lime to be thrown over the bed and forked in. After that, let it rest for a week or ten days, and then give it another forking-over, and repeat the forking three or four times at similar intervals. Then throw out the soil to nearly a spade-depth, and if it can be 204 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ September, got, obtain a load or a few barrowsful of fresh tnrfy loam, chopped up with the spade rather fine, but not sifted, and put this loam in the bottom of the bed. After that, where strong and vigorous growth is required, get a quantity of clean cow-dung from the field, fresh, if it can be had in that state, but if not, get it from a heap ; procure a good-sized tub, or butt, as it may be termed, partly fill it with water, put in a spadeful or two of the dung, give it ,a good crushing, and stir up well with a garden-rake till it is made into a fine paste, and splash this all over the fresh mould in the bottom of the bed. I should say that for a bed of 100 rows, one good barrowful of dung, made into liquid in the way above described, will be quite sufficient. After the liquid has been laid on, allow it to remain for a week or two open to the weather — rain, sun, and air — to sweeten, and then give it a good forking-over, patting it down tolerably close with the fork. Let it still lie open to within ten or twelve days of the time you wish to plant, when the soil which has been limed and well worked over should be filled in, and in the above stated time it will settle down ready for drilling for the bulbs. I prefer drilling to planting on a flat surface ; and where the soil is heavy, close, and of a retentive nature, I would advise the use of a little clean-run road-sand, about a teaspoonful being put in the hole, and the bulb placed thereon ; then on the bulb put another spoonful, and fill up with the ordinary mould. I don’t see that I need say more on this head. As to my trying to advise old Tulip-growers, I know it is useless. Some few I know are prejudiced, and fancy their ow;n notions are best, but others are not so ; some will give and take advice, and most of those who have been as long in the fancy of growing Tulips and other florist’s flowers as I have, know quite as well as I do what their requirements are. I think all the latter are pretty well agreed upon one thing — that the chief motto for success in the Tulip fancy is Fresh Soil, and I will add that the oftener the roots get changed from one sort of soil to another the better ; not only so, but a change in locality is equally necessary . and beneficial for keeping them in the fine perfect strain which only is fit for exhibition. I maintain that any man, be he ever so mindful how he lays out his money in the purchase of fine strains of Tulips, may hoard them up, and fancy himself up to the mark with any other grower, but that by keeping them to himself for a short number of years, and growing them continuously in the same soil and situation, he will find his fine strains begin to sport, to get “kaily” in growth, and to dwindle down until he has scarcely any sound roots left. This has been the cause of the disappearance and loss of so many fine old varieties. Through care and watchfulness, I found this out years ago, and I know some others also who have now begun to find it out. If Tulip-growers generally could be a little more united, and could place more confidence in one another, not only as regards the buying and selling of the roots, but by interchange of growths : such as two growers one hundred miles or more apart agreeing to take a quantity of bulbs from each other, to GARDEN WORK FOR SEPTEMBER. 205 1875. ] plant them for a season or two seasons, and after that each to return to the other his own roots — if such a thing could be honestly contrived and carried out, both sides would be benefited. I know that it is not every one who would agree to such an arrangement, but if, say, a couple or four growers could be induced to try the experiment, and if after such a trial it were found to answer, this would be an incentive to others to try the plan more extensively. I -will leave this sub¬ ject for the present, as perhaps some one or more of our Tulip-growing friends may have something to say about this, or some of the other matters I have adverted to. I may add that I am aware my time in the floral world is fast hastening to its close, so that my vast collection of Tulips and other flowers are likely soon to get more extensively distributed. — John Hepworth, Huddersfield. GARDEN WORK FOR SEPTEMBER, FLOWERS. SO far as the season has gone, flower-gardens have not been as effective as they usually are ; this is owing to the prolonged wet, from which the flowering plants, such as Pelargoniums , have suffered severely, the de- *4 velopment of the blooms being prevented. Foliage plants, on the other hand, are growing luxuriantly, thus enabling us to form a just appreciation of the real advantage of a liberal admixture of foliage, in combination with flowers in the composition of our groups. I find that Calceolarias have gone off with the disease this season more than they have done before, and I think that where they are subject to do so, it is far better to depend upon Violas as a substitute, as it is annoying to have the effect marred when it should be at its best. Frequent hand-pickings will now be necessary to keep the beds from decaying petals and foliage, as much of the effect depends upon the trimness and exactitude with which the plants are kept. Weeds upon walks will be troublesome after so much wet, and must be kept under. This is a good time to divide and replant Perennials that have been cut back after flowering, so that they get established before winter. Plant out Pinks , if not already done, into beds that have been prepared for them, the fresh soil and manure for which should have been frequently turned to sweeten ; in doing this keep a sharp look-out for grubs, which are so destructive to them, and are not unfrequently brought in with the fresh compost. Pot-up Carnation layers, or plant them out as soon as rooted. Polyanthus and double Primroses may also be divided and replanted. Make a successional sowing of Hardy Annuals upon a soil that is not over rich, as upon such ground they stand the winter best. Dahlias should have their branches securely tied up, in case of high winds, removing occasionally the decaying blooms. Hollyhocks may still be propagated from cuttings when the stock is deficient, and the present is a suitable time to select the best strains of Phloxes , Pentstemons , and Antin'hinums to increase from cuttings. Evergreens may now be transplanted, and increased by means of cuttings, which will now root freely in nursery lines, if taken off with a heel — that is, with a portion of the two-year-old wood attached — and firmly planted. Conservatory : The finer varieties of the Zonal Pelargoniums which have been grown in pots in the open air, will now prove most effective in the house, if placed upon an airy shelf near the glass, and will produce an abundance of bloom until mid-winter, if watered carefully at the root. A few plants of Salvia splendens 206 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ September, will .prove serviceable in combination ; if grown in pots throughout the summer, they will now be coming into bloom. The earliest section of the Chrysanthemums should at once be placed under glass to forward their flowering. Tea Boses that have been grown on and pinched frequently back will produce an abundance of fragrant blossoms for conservatory decoration at this season. Griffinia liyacinthina is also a most desirable decorative plant for autumn display, while the lovely Vallota purpurea, with the more general blooming plants of this season, and some of the fine-foliage plants, judiciously placed, -will combine to present a fresh and pleasing display. The growth upon roof climbers should be regulated so as to admit a sufficiency of light to the plants underneath. The shading should be used only to subdue direct sunshine : in fact, it may almost be dispensed with. Fuchsias should now be propagated for growing on during the winter. When so grown, they form famous plants early in the season, and are useful for decorative purposes. Give attention to the late-blooming varieties that have been grown out-of-doors ; these, if liberally treated now, will produce their blooms until late in the autumn. Chrysanthemums that are intended to be potted up from the borders should be lifted towards the end of the month and placed in a shady situation, freely sprinkling them overhead until they take fresh hold. Give attention to the tying-up of established plants, and encourage with liberal applications of manure- water. Greenhouses : As the majority of the plants must be housed during the month, these structures should have a thorough cleansing preparatory to being refilled ; each plant should be individually examined and cleansed as it is brought in. Watering must be judiciously performed at the root, and an abundance of air given, so as to thoroughly ripen the wood. Camellias should have an abundance of air both night and day, and must not be allowed to become dry at the root, as any sudden check at the stage of bud-swelling is certain to cause the buds to drop ; keep the foliage thoroughly clean by sponging with water in which a little soap is dissolved. Orchids : Many of these, which make growth freely during the autumn months, are apt to be restricted prematurely at this season by sudden exposure ; this is more particularly the case when house-room is limited, as plants that are finishing growth require less water and less atmospheric moisture, with a freer ventilation and more exposure than is conducive to the promotion of active growth ; in as far as possible, these conditions must be provided for in each case. Dendrobium nobile should ripen its growth in a light, fully exposed situation, gradually with¬ holding water and reducing the temperature, which will induce the setting of the buds ; when thoroughly matured, this is one of the most valuable winter-blooming plants we possess. Stoves : Slight fires will now be necessary, in order to thoroughly ripen the wood before the winter; abundance of air must therefore be given, and the plants kept drier both at root and top. Watering should be attended to in the morning, which will prevent undue humidity when the house is shut up. Thin- out the wood upon roof climbers and keep them within bounds, so that they intercept the light as little as possible. Winter-blooming plants must be kept near to the glass and freely ventilated, so as to encourage thorough maturation. Push forward the propagation of Bedding Plants, and continue to pot off cuttings as they become sufficiently rooted. Propagate Violas in a cold frame under a north wall ; so far, they are our most effective blooming plants this season. Fully expose this class of plants when grown in frames as long as possible, as stocky firmly-grown plants will be found to winter best. Thin out Mignonette , and sow 1S75. ] GARDEN WORK FOR SEPTEMBER. 207 for succession ; also Ten-week Stocks. Let Homan Hyacinths and Due Van Tliol Tulips be potted as soon as procurable, in order to be ready for early flowering. — G. Westland, Witley Court. FRUITS. Pines : See previous directions in regard to potting the fruiting plants, and if any remain undone, they should be proceeded with at once ; also pot crowns and suckers, place them in a moist growing heat, and keep them close and slightly shaded for a time till they are rooted, after which the usual treatment for succession plants should be given. Give a liberal supply of water to all, and be careful that the bottom-heat does not get too violent at any time. Keep a moist growing temperature from 70° to 75° where the fruit is swelling, and let it rise to 90° during sunshine. Those plants intended for fruiting in the spring should not be overdone with water, and be careful to keep the temperature steady. Vinery : Keep a dry atmosphere for ripe Grapes ; if there is any damp in the house, or in wet weather a little fire-heat through the day would be beneficial, at the same time admitting plenty of air to dry the house. Out out all decayed berries, and nail gauze over the openings if wasps are troublesome. Fire-heat will be a help to late Grapes, especially Muscats, till such time as they are per¬ fectly ripe. Pot-vines intended for fruiting next season should be taken out of the house as soon as the wood is ripe, and the canes nailed to a warm wall ; cover the pots with litter, and let them remain till required for forcing. Melons: Late melons will not require much water after this time. Keep up a good heat, if there is any convenience to do so, otherwise, make the best of sun-heat, by closing the frames early in the afternoon. Cover at night if the w'eather becomes chilly. Orchard-hoibse trees in pots, where the fruit is gathered, should not be allowed to get too dry, but every attention given them in that way, as well as in keeping them clean, so that the foliage will remain healthy to the last. These houses may now be kept open night and day, except where there are any late peaches or other fruit to ripen off. Strawberries in Pots : These may still be potted for late forcing ; treat as before advised. Clear away all weeds and runners from those potted last month, and water them occasionally with liquid manure ; still keep them in an open situation. Hardy Fruits : Judging from appearances, wasps are likely to be very trouble¬ some during the present month ; therefore every means should be used to destroy them, as well as every other insect likely to damage wall-fruit. Imperatrice , Cods Late Red and Golden Drop Plums should be secured with nets or canvas, for use late in the autumn. Late Peaches should have good root-soakings of water, if the weather is dry, the trees being washed as well, till the fruit is ripening. Remove a portion of the leaves that cover the fruit, so that it may have full exposure to sun and air. As soon as any Peach or other wall-trees are clear of the crop, go over them, and after clearing out all decayed leaves, and cutting away any use¬ less shoots, give them a good washing with the garden engine. Strawberry beds should now be cleared at once from all runners and weeds, and the ground dressed with rotten manure, forked in between the plants ; prepare fresh ground for making new plantations, as this is a good time for planting them. If any are required for spring-planting, the runners had now better be taken off and planted in nursery-beds, in rows a few inches apart. Cut out the old canes and tie up the fruiting shoots of double or autumn¬ bearing Raspberries ; water them with liquid manure if the weather is dry. 208 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ September, Every attention should now be given to the ripening crops of orchard fruit ; Early Pears especially should be watched, for many hinds, if allowed to hang a few days too long on the trees, become mealy and worthless ; these should be gathered in time, and placed in a cool room. It is quite the reverse with Early Apples , as the majority of these are best if gathered from the tree as they may be required for use ; these remarks, however, must only be applied to the earliest varieties ; others, lipening later in the month, may be stored with advantage. — J. Powell, Frogmore. VEGETABLES. Such seed-sowings as were made during the early part of last month will have yielded plants which will now need attention in several ways. Spinach , as soon as the plants become large enough, should be thinned out in the rows in such a manner as to leave to each plant room to form a heart or centre independent of its associates in the row ; it is not necessary to thin them greatly, providing the individualism of each be insured, but in nowise should two or more seedlings be permitted to cluster together ; by this means each will become imbued with a natural strength, and will be likely to stand through, and resist the hardships of winter, producing a crop of leaves which, if picked in succession as they form, are not likely to discommode, or unduly overgrow the hearts or centres of neigh¬ bouring plants. It is all-important to hoe well between the rows of Spinach as frequently as possible, as this also tends to secure greater robustness ; and besides, by admitting the air more freely down to their roots and around their succulent collars, it proves an additional safeguard against severe frosts and wet weather, which often cause them to decay. The Onion crop will now in the majority of instances require drawing, drying, and harvesting. It is simply necessary to pull them and lay them in “ lands,” upon a fine dry day, and during dry weather generally. Turn the whole of them over by the aid of a wooden rake once or twice subsequently, and choosing a fine day, remove them on to the floor of any dry, airy shed, that may be convenient. Here they may be assorted as necessary, the large ones probably for roping, and the lesser ones to store for use. If the litter and loose parts generally, such as any green leaves, &c., which are attached, be removed, the crop may be placed in rather large heaps together, as in that way they keep equally well in any proper shed or store-room. Where the Onions, being u necky,” have not ripened off sufficiently, have resort to the usual method of bending down the necks of such as are erect ; this will hasten bulbing, and besides increase the size of the bulbs. Thin-out also seedling Endive and Lettuces, sown during the past month, taking care to transplant such as are drawn in process of thinning, for future supply, as all such will certainly “ come in ” useful, the tendency to bolt or run to seed being now very slight ; make other sowings of the two latter subjects, upon some sunny and sheltered site, and tie up successional batches for blanching ; this may now be performed in larger quantities than previously. Earth-up Celery in succession, and a little at a time as regards the soil, be¬ cause if too much be packed against the plants, they are almost certain to become more or less crooked. The various Broccolis , Kales , Savoys , Brussels Sprouts , and all similar crops should now be well moulded-up, by drawing the soil freely towards the plants in the rows, on both sides. Transplant seedling Cauliflower- plants towards the end of the month, and prepare the necessary beds for Spring Cabbages , a good site being the old onion-bed, which in the case of light soils need not be fresh-dug for them. — William Earley, Valentines. ■ 1875. ] FORCING THE HAUTBOIS. 209 CAMPANULA SMITHII. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. CINDER the name which is here adopted, this pretty Bellwort was shown at a J77 meeting of the Floral Committee in July, 1874, and gained a well-merited First-class Certificate. Its extremely floriferous character stamps it at once as a popular plant of high merit, while the pretty grey-blue colour of its flowers and its hardy character mark it as a plant desirable for its distinct¬ ness, and one which may be made available for general decorative purposes. The plant originated with Mr. William Smith, of Wilmot Road, Leyton, and our figure was made from specimens communicated by him. It may be compared to an erect-growing Campanula fragilis , and its history may be summed up in the re¬ mark that it sprang up accidentally in a frame wherein C. fragilis and C. pumila alba had been largely grown for market purposes. It may therefore be fairly presumed to be a natural hybrid. There can be no question that this Campanula Smithii is a charming novelty among dwarf-flowering plants suitable for decorative purposes. It is a perennial, requiring probably the protection of a frame, but possibly quite hardy. It has small hairy ovate toothed radical leaves, and erect hairy scarcely leafy stems, grow¬ ing about 6 in. high, freely branched, and bearing a profusion of semi-erect delicately tinted greyish-blue bell-shaped flowers, wdiich are smaller than those of the trailing-stemmed C. fragilis , and less tubular than those of C. pumila alba , but showing very much of an intermediate character. Our figure represents, we believe, the parent plant ; but we learn from Mr. Smith that young plants raised from cuttings, and only 3 in. to 4 in. high, pro¬ duced flowers at that early age.— -T. Moore. FORCING TIIE HAUTBOIS. WE seldom miss having a few nice dishes of Hautbois Strawberry ; and where its rich peculiar flavour is appreciated, they well repay the little labour or care necessary, while at all times they make an agreeable change. As most people are now getting their stock ready, I put this hint forward, as a word in season. The best runners are two-year-old ones, potted into 48-sized pots. They do not at any time require such rich soil as other sorts ; a light sort of chalky soil seems to be best suited for them, and they most likely will be found to do quite as well the second year if left in the pots, or with a slight shift. They are remarkably pretty when in bloom, and the fruit sets without any difficulty. They look best when placed on the table in small baskets, with the foot-stalks attached, treating them as Wood or Alpine Strawberries. There are two sorts generally catalogued, Myatt’s and the Royal , between which I see no difference ; the first lot wTe had here came from the late Mr. Cutliill, who was fond of trying experiments on this and other varieties. To T 210 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ September, show how easily people may make mistakes, I may mention that shortly after we got a good stock of plants, we put some out in an old kitchen garden, and added plenty of chalk at times. We found them to be very useful, as we could always go in autumn and get a few fair dishes of good flavour. In time, this old garden was destroyed, and the Hautbois was planted into a strong clayey loam, such as good growers would consider perfection for the varieties of the British Queen race. The ‘result was, that if we had not known the qualities of the variety before, we should have said it was the sterile variety that never fruited. — J. Fleming, Cliveden. SCUTELLARIA MOCINIANA. IflLL you allow me, through the medium of your pages, to draw the j£jl attention of those brothers of the craft who have any considerable ffS? amount of plant-furnishing for drawing-room, staircase, and boudoir {(f adornment, to the remarkable adaptability of Scutellaria Moqiniana for this purpose. It can easily be grown in any sized pot, from a small u 60,” to one suited for a specimen as per Baines, and will flower as successfully in the small pot in pro¬ portion to its size, as it would if grown in one 15 in. across. It has a charming manner of exposing its rich orange-scarlet heads of tubular flowers ; and no one can pass without being arrested by the brightness of its colours when in full beauty. My object in bringing a plant of this description before your readers is because it generally receives a bad character. Its habit is said to be bad and straggling, but I find it acquires this straggling habit in the same way that a great many other bad habits are attained, namely, by its bad bringing-up. Being a stove plant, it gets treated in general as stove plants usually are treated, being afforded a moist heat, and a considerable amount of shade, which treatment is to this plant positive cruelty. When grown in full sunshine, in moderate heat, and with sufficient air, it flowers freely as soon as it attains a height of 8 in. to 10 in., and plants in small 60-pots will often have four or five of its lovely trusses of flowers fully expanded at one time. By putting in batches of cuttings every few weeks, this plant may be had in flower all the year round. Peat, loam, and sand, with good drainage, will suit its requirements as to soil. — William Denning, Norbiton. ABTOCARPUS CANNONI. ^F the several subjects of interest exhibited at the meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society on the 18th ult., three forms of Artocarpus — the toifS) ' genus of the Bread-fruit tree — claim especial notice. They were all natives of the Islands of the Pacific, and had been recently imported into this country. They consisted of Artocarpus laciniata and A. laciniata metallica, from the collection of Messrs. Veitch and Sons; and of A. Cannoni from the collection of Mr. Bull, the latter being represented in the accompanying illustration, for which we are indebted to Mr. Bull, who describes his plant as follows : — u This remarkably ornamental plant, which is a native of the Society Islands, 1875. ] AETOCABPUS CANNON! 211 Artocarpus Cannoni. alternate and petiolate, the petiole and hairy costa being of a bright red colour. The leaves, which measure at least a foot long and 7 in. wide, are of membranous texture, with a glossy upper surface, and of a rich, full, bronzy-crimson hue, beautifully tinted with purple. The colouring is remarkably rich and constant, that of the under-surface being of a bright vinous-red. u The form of the leaves varies greatly ; some are simple and cordate at the was first made known to me by Mr. Walter Hill, of Brisbane, and was afterwards sent to me in a living state by Mr. Henderson, of Sydney. It is, without exaggeration, one of the finest coloured-leaved plants which it has ever been my good fortune to offer. It is a plant of free-growing habit, with a woody stem, which is hirsute in the young state. The leaves are very variable in form, 212 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ September base, parallel-sided, with tbe apex irregularly lobate ; some liave the apex regu¬ larly three-lobed, with short entire lobes ; some are deeply three-lobed, being divided nearly to the base, the segments themselves, of which the centre one is largest, being shallowly sinuate-lobed, and occasionally the secondary lobes are themselves sinuately toothed. This variety of form, and the rich colouring of the polished surface, render this one of the most effective coloured-leaved plants of recent introduction ; and there is not the slightest tendency in the colouring to vary or fade, so that the effect produced is a permanent one.” Whether or not these Artocarpads will thrive in the sub-tropical garden during summer, can only be ascertained by experiment, and the present season is not favourable for the trial ; added to which, they are yet too costly to be thus risked. If they succeed, they will give us some of the finest plants used for this style of gardening. If they do not, and their culture is confined to the hothouse, the form and colouring of the leaves will still render them pleasing and ornamental. Of A. laciniata , the Messrs. Veitch state that it is an interesting and distinct stove-plant, from the South Sea Islands, received through their correspondent, Mr. Baptist, of Sydney. It is of free growth and very distinct, both on account of its deeply-lobed leaves and bright glossy colouring. The size of the largest leaves is at present 13 in. in length, and 9 in. in width, but they will probably become much larger as the plants attain strength. Of the variety A. laciniata metallica they state, that it was imported from the same source, and is of similar habit, but with very differently coloured foliage. The leaves have a glossy bronzy lustre above, tinged with a deep red, which imparts to it a tone of colouring that will secure for the plant general favour. In their present stage of develop¬ ment, as compared with Mr. Bull’s plant, these forms of A. laciniata are some¬ what more divided, or rather, perhaps, show none of the less divided leaves of A. Cannoni, which latter, again, is the deeper-coloured. — T. Moore. THE GARDEN BROOM, AND HOW TO USE IT. «HE out-door garden Broom or Besom is so important an implement, that I propose to offer a few practical remarks on its construction, and on the vAA' economical and practical way in which it should be put to work. There TG is some little common-sense and science required even in the make-up of a besom, and in the method of working it, just as there is in making a mouse-trap, and setting it so that it will readily catch a mouse. In the year 1842, when the late Mr. Loudon visited me at Bicton Gardens, some of the first things he observed, were the shape of my garden brooms, and the economy of time and the great saving of strength and labour secured by their use ; and he requested me to furnish him with a model, to be figured in his Gardener’s Magazine for the year 1842, where my account of it was published. I observe, however, that very heavy, ill-shaped bundles are still made up as brooms, and used for out-door sweeping ; while the awkward, unworkmanlike way in which the broom is handled, by many who profess to be sweeping, is quite astounding, 3375. 1 THE GARDEN BROOM, AND HOW TO USE IT. 213 in these advanced days. It seems to me, that some men go muddling on in the mediaeval way in which they were first taught, clinging to their original ideas, wasting their strength and time, without giving one moment’s thought to any improvement, and without considering that the labour involved in using a broom, may be turned to good or bad account. I have seen very recently three men at work in company occupied in sweeping one single walk of no more than 7 ft. width : two of them side by side with brooms, and the third wheeling the barrow on a little way, and waiting to take up the refuse that the other two had swept up to him, and which he then scraped up and placed in the barrow, the other two, the sweepers, waiting while he performed his part, and then going on for another spell, while the barrow-man again waited at a short distance — and so on. The sweepers handled their brooms in the most unscientific, cross¬ handed manner possible, like thoughtless awkward boys. I have been quite ashamed to see such things still practised. In the first place, of those three men there were two too many for the job ; they were in each, other’s way, and could not have displayed the least science in handling the broom, even if they had been possessed of it. The fact is, that walks which for some time have been under this unscientific mode of treatment, become entirely spoiled, the stones being dragged towards the sides until they are nearly buried, the walks becoming sloped to the middle and also worn into a gully, which fills with water and mud after every shower that falls, making them most uncomfortable for any one to pass along with¬ out being furnished with mud-boots or a boat ! It is really astonishing that such practices should still continue in vogue. One man (or lad) who had been taught the science of sweeping, and who made proper use of the broom on either walks, roads, or grass, would perform his work better and more expeditiously than three such men as I have above described. As I find various absurdi¬ ties still in practice, not only as regards the use of the broom, but of other garden-tools, I intend to discuss these matters in the hope of working some reformation. For a man’s own comfort, as well as with the view to the economy of time and labour, he should always be instructed to make use of the broom (or any other tool) in a manly, scientific, and proper manner, changing quickly from right to left, or left to right, as occasion requires, and not working, as we so constantly see, back-handed or cross-handed, the lower hand put to the tool-handle the wTrong way, and the man himself sidling along like a crab, or in some awkward, unnatural posture. The broom-handle should be made of a proper size for the hand, and of some light, soft, tough wood, and should be of a convenient length and set at a proper angle. The workman should always practise its use from left to right, and from right to left, since this change rests the body, and wears the tool evenly. It is astonish¬ ing how the workman saves his strength and his time, and rests his frame, by the practice of performing both ways ; also, what an amount of extra work can be 214 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ September, performed in the same time, as compared with that which is accomplished by the unscientific awkward workmen above described. The brooms for general work about the garden and pleasure-grounds should be of two or three different shapes and sizes. For sweeping close-cut grass or extensive lawns, my fan, or lien-and-chicken broom, was made of long, tough, fine birch and heath, tied in five or seven small bunches, ancj. then placed together in the shape of a fan, thin and flat, and from 3 ft. to 4 ft. in length in the centre — that is, from the centre of the base to the outside of the spray, and nearly the same in width. These are furnished with light handles from 4 ft. to 10 ft. in length, made to take in and out, to suit the work and weather. Thus in sweeping well-kept close-cut turf, a new broom, with a 10-ft. handle set at a proper angle, will sweep clean from 18 ft. to 22 ft. in width, and a man will soon clear several acres. If there is a heavy swathe of grass or leaves, and the weather is damp, a half-worn broom with a 7-ft. handle is placed to work, and two swathes, or from 12 ft. to 15 ft., can be easily cleared at a full swinging sweep. In this way a large extent of ground will be soon cleared. The brooms, after being in this way three-parts worn down, should be cast on the rack in readi¬ ness to receive them, and when the 4-ft. handle has been put in, are ready to be used on hard roads, yards, pavements, piggeries, cowhouses, backyards, and the like. Finally, when the broom became worn down so as to be no longer useful as such, it should be returned to a large crate, to be cut into useful flower-garden pegs by the garden boys in rough weather or by candle-light on mornings and evenings in the short days of winter. This kind of broom can always be turned to useful account. Besides the lightness of the fan-shaped broom, however, its economy in the way of expeditiously clearing off a large amount of work is such that no other kind of broom can compete with it. It never clogs with dirt or worm-casts, or gets heavy in wet weather by holding a weight of moisture, but it always works cleanly — a most essential thing in economising labour and strength. It has, indeed, great advantage in every way over the round-bundled birch or heath broom so commonly used, which, from its shape and make, and its short handle, cannot be worked with speed and economy, while in wet dirty weather it gets clogged and loaded with wet and filth, so as to exhaust the workman’s strength and time. I had in use a medium-sized fan-broom for sweeping dressed well-kept walks and roads, and the grass about and between flower-beds, verges, &c. This was made with a mixture of fine tough birch and heath. Thus by bringing a little science and forethought to bear on so common an operation as sweeping, neatness order and economy are secured. But, after all, it is not so much the shape of the broom which is to be regretted, as the lack of a little common-sense in turning the time and strength of the workman to good account. Surely this matter is worth some consideration. — James Barnes, Exmouth. 1875. ] GARDEN GOSSIP. 215 GARDEN GOSSIP. QjfHE National Carnation and Picotee Society held its annual show on the vvvj) 13 th ult., in the Manchester Botanical Garden. The date was too late for <§^> the Southern florists, but those from the North mustered in force, the re- ^ suit being an excellent show. At the meeting of subscribers, the Hon. Treasurer and Secretary, the Rev. F. D. Horner, reported that after defraying all expenses of the exhibition, a balance of £14 remained to be carried on to next year’s fund. The exhibition is fixed for August 11, 1876, and Mr. E. S. Dodwell was elected President by acclamation. - ££he annual meeting of the Pelargonium Society was held on July 22nd, on which occasion several of the members dined together at the Criterion Hotel. The treasurer, Dr. Denny, reported a healthy state of the finances, a balance of over £20 remaining after paying the prizes awarded at the exhibition on the previous day, and all the working expenses. The sum paid out in prizes was £40. It was hoped that the Society, now that it had become better known, might draw around it more abundant sup¬ port, so that encouragement might be extended to other classes of Pelargoniums, besides the Zonals, which was the class specially in view when the Society wTas originally founded. The inducements offered by the Society may, it is hoped, set hybridisers to work, and so be the means of obtaining new types of this useful decorative family. - ®he usual reports on the Condition of the Fruit Crops published by the Gardeners’ Chronicle show that in the various counties of Great Britain and Ireland the crop has been unusually abundant. This remark applies almost equally well to fruits of all descriptions, and says much for the ripening of the wood last autumn, and the relative absence of spring frosts this season. Of course, there has been some drawback, and that was furnished by the excessive summer rains, owing to which Strawberries, Cherries, Currants, and other small fruits were spoiled in large quantities, and in some cases the condition of the fruit was such that it was not deemed worth while to gather it. - - £1 New Hybrid Lily just bloomed in Mr. Waterer’s nursery at Knap Hill proves to be one of the most beautiful which has yet appeared in our gardens. We hope shortly to publish a coloured figure of it. It has the appearance of being a cross between L. auraium and L. speciosum, but partakes most of the latter parent. The flowers, when the segments are straightened out, measure nearly 14 in. across, the petaline segments being 4 in. wide and recurved from the flatly-expanded base. The colour is white towards the tips of tho segments, suffused with rich rosy-crimson near the base, and there dotted over with deep crimson spots and warts, while its fragrance is delicate-and most agreeable. - $Je. El wes, in a recent notice of Herr Leichtlin’s garden, invites attention to the extraordinary Varieties of Lilies which exist in the gardens of Japan, apparently hybrids between L. longiflorum , auratum , and sjieciosum. Their beauty is astonishing, and their variety endless ; but whether on account of their rarity, or from the delicacy of their bulbs, they are still quite unknown in England. A number of these plants were, it is said, exhibited at the Vienna Exhibition, some of which are still alivo in Europe, among them being a plant named L. Elizahethce, which resembled L. speciosum rubrum in colours, and L. auratum in form and size. - Nearly eighty years ago it was asserted that camphor had power to Hasten Germination , and a similar property was subsequently attributed to chlorine, bromine, and iodine. These statements have been recently put to the test of experiment by Heck el, and found to be correct. Tho seeds of Raplanus sativvs, exposed to the action of pure water, began to germinate after an average interval of eight days ; similar seeds, kept moist with iodine-water, germinated in five days ; with bromine-water in three, 216 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ September, with chlorine- water in two days. The monobromide of camphor was found to exhibit even greater energy than either of its constituents taken separately, or than a simple mixture of bromine and camphor, germination occurring after a mean interval of thirty-six hours. The alkaline borates and silicates were found to retard germination, even in relatively small pro¬ portions ; stronger solutions checking the process for an indefinite period. Arsenions acid and the soluble arseniates prevented germination altogether by destroying the embryo. « - £n the Knap Hill Nursery Picea magnified is now producing cones for the first time in England, if not in Europe, on a young plant some 4 ft. to 5 ft, high. The cones, of which three are produced, are already nearly full-grown, and are quite distinct from those of P, nobilis , with which this fine Fir-tree has been confounded. — : — ®he following Six Pears are recommended in the Moniteur PLorticole Beige for those who wish to have Pears from July to May : — 1, Beurre Giffard, ripe at the end of July and beginning of August ; 2, Williams’s Bon Chretien , end of August or beginning of September ; 3, Louise Bonne d' Avranches {of Jersey), end of September ; 4, Beurre Durondeau, October and November — the flowers of this variety are said to withstand spring frosts better than any other ; 5, Beurre Diet, November and December ; G, Bergcimotte Esperen, January to April. - - P|err Leichtlin cultivates a charming little species of Agapanthusy called A. Mooreanus , which is quite new and distinct. It produces numerous flower-stems, though only a few inches in height, and the leaves are utterly out of proportion to the size of the flowers. In habit and colour it resembles the others, and tt seems to have an equally robust constitution. eiiitunni. — Andre Leroy, the well-known pomologist of Angers, died in that city on July 23rd. M. Leroy was probably the first pomologist in Europe, and his contributions to horticultural science and literature are numerous and weighty. His personal character endeared him to his friends, and his extensive knowledge was ever at the service of those who consulted him. - fiJn. John Standish died at Ascot, on July 24th, in his 62nd year. He was born on March 25th, 1814, and commenced his career in the famous gardens at Bowood, his father having been forester to the Marquis of Lansdowne ; after¬ wards lie became foreman, under Mr. Toward, in the gardens of the Duchess of Gloucester, Bagshot Park. Here he hybridised Rhododendron ccitawhiense with a scarlet variety of R. arhoreum , and produced R. Blandyanum and many other fine kinds. About 1839, shortly after Fuchsia fu/gens was introduced, he startled the world by producing a hybrid between that species and F. g/ohosa, which was called F. Standishii ; this obtained for him the friendship of the late Dr. Lindley, and introduced him as a nurseryman to the gardening world. Sub¬ sequently now plants, Rhododendrons, &c., engaged his attention for some years, until in 184G he was joined in partnership by Mr. C. Noble, and Messrs. Standish and Noble became the agents to receive and distribute the magnificent introductions from China of Mr. R. Fortune. This partnership was dissolved in 1856; and in 1862 Mr. Standish removed from Bagshot to the Royal Ascot Nursery, where new Grapes, Strawberries, Peaches, &c., as well as the Japanese plants brought home by Mr. Fortune, have all combined to render his name a houshold word amongst gardeners. His last triumph was the production of some hybrid Peas, which, it is believed, will prove a valuable legacy to gardeners. And now he is gone, his manly presence, geniality, and disinterested generosity, will be sorely missed among his colleagues. - ^^Cr. Thomas Taylor, of the firm of Webber and Co., Covent Garden, died on August 15th, in his 67th year. He had been connected with Covent Garden Market for over thirty years ; and was a prime mover in the formation, about 1854, of the British Pomological Society, and an original member of the Fruit and Vegetable Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society, on which he sat till quite recently. • . - . . 1 V . -L w. H Fitch, del . Lilium . 1 Hlimlinl^tn 2 Parrlalimim Chromo. G.Severeyns Brussels*' 3 CaJl£oiiiigiim _ Jj 1S75. J GARDEN LILIES. - CHAPTER IX. 217 GARDEN LILIES.— Chapter IX. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION OF LILIUM HUMBOLDTII AND ITS ALLIES. I UR plate represents three forms or species of Lilies, which have, within the last few years, found their way from California into our gardens, and which promise to become good and useful introductions as ornamental border-flowers. The specimens figured were exhibited at South Kensington last summer, by G. F. Wilson, Esq., from his Lily-garden at Weybridge. Two of them, L. Humboldtii (fig. 1) and L. pardalinum (fig. -2), from the same collection, had been awarded First-class Certificates in 1872 by the Royal Horticultural Society. L. californicum (fig. 3) is, as will be seen, deeper-coloured than the other two. 17. Lilium Humboldtii ( Qartenflora , t. 724 ; Flore des Serves , tt. 1973-4). A very fine and handsome Lily, quite distinct in character from L. ccinadense , as a reference to our plate published with Chapter VIII. (p. 157) will at once show. The stems grow from 5 ft. to 6 ft. high, and are of a purple colour, with a slightly glaucous bloom. The leaves are all whorled, each whorl consisting of from nine to fifteen sessile linear-lanceolate acute leaflets, which are wavy or smooth on the margins ; the lower ones 3 in. to 4 in. long, by an inch broad. The flowers vary from six to fourteen on a stem (thirty to forty, arranged as a pyramid, according to Roezl), and are axillary in the upper bracts, which are short and ovate, the inflorescence forming a kind of raceme. The perianth segments are from 3 in. to 4 in. long, revolute almost to the base, where they are slightly lamellate- papillose ; they are of a rich orange-yellow in the upper half, while the lower half is thickly dotted with unequal, irregularly-disposed spots of a deep blood-red colour ; these spots have sometimes a tendency to become ocellate, as in the sub¬ joined variety. The stamens are shorter than the perianth, but much protruded, in consequence of the segments being reflexed, the filaments 2 in.* long or more, with anthers of a reddish-brown colour, and about half an inch long ; the style is about the same length as the stamens. The flowers are produced about the end of June or the beginning of July. This beautiful Lily was discovered by Mr. Roezl, in a wild valley amongst the Sierra Nevada Mountains, in California, and to him we are indebted for its introduction into European gardens. It has been described by Dr. Kellogg, under the name of L. Bloomerianum. L. Humboldtii ooellatum. — This very beautiful variety, which is of Cali¬ fornian origin, has been named ooellatum, from its eye-like spots. It is the L. Bloomerianum ooellatum of gardens, and was introduced and distributed by Mr. Bull, of Chelsea. We saw it very nicely flowered, last July, in Mr. Wilson’s collection, and from this plant the accompanying description is taken. It is of a more dense and stocky habit than the typical L. Humboldtii. The stem in the specimen At p. 157, the filaments of L. canadense aro by an oversight erroneously described as 4 in. to G in. long instead of 1| in. 3rd SERIES. — VIII. u 218 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ OCTOBER, referred to was about 3 ft. high, of a purplish hue below, and marked with black lines. The densely-set leaves were all whorled, from nine to fourteen, sessile, oblong-acute, dark green, slightly recurved at the tip, and they were arranged in two or three series forming broken whorls. The flowers, four in number, were placed in the axils of the upper bracts ; they were larger than in L. Humbolcltii , of a .rich tawny orange, spotted nearly up to the tip with large spots (one-eiglith of an inch across), the larger and upper ones being crimson, with a black dot in the centre of each. The perianth segments were broadly-oblong, terminating in a shortish and somewhat acute point. The anthers were of a brownish orange colour. Like the species, this blossomed early in July. 18. Lilium pardalinum ( Proc . Calif. Acad., ii. 12, with fig.). — This fine showy Lily, named L. pardalinum by Dr. Kellogg, bears considerable resem¬ blance in its general aspect to L. Humboldtii , but differs in its pallid stems, less distinctly whorled leaves, and also in the deeper colour of the flowers. Its erect stoutish stems grow from 5 ft. to 6 ft. in height, and are everywhere of a pale green colour. The leaves are alternate below, and whorled above, or in some of the forms — e.y., that which is cultivated under the name of L. Robinsonianum — everywhere alternate. In the usual forms, the lower leaves are spathulate or oblong-obovate, narrowed to a bluntish point, and 3 in. to 4 in. long. In some of the plants the leaves are more lance-shaped, and from 4 in. to 5 in. long. The whorls are from eight to ten-leaVed in the cultivated plants, and here and there half-whorls of three or four leaves occur. The stem appears to terminate in a tuft of leaves more or less separated, and from the axils of these leaves, on long pedicels, the flowers, three to five in number, pro¬ ceed, sometimes all standing nearly on the same level in a subumbellate manner, sometimes (when the leaves are more scattered) issuing from the axils of the upper leaves and forming an irregular corymb. The flowers have the perianth seg¬ ments, lance-shaped, bluntish, and strongly revolute, the lower half of a deep orange colour, densely spotted with blood-crimson, and slightly lamellate-papil¬ lose, and the upper half unspotted and suffused with a sanguineous red ; the upper spots, which occur on the lower borders of the portion coloured red, appear as if set on a small circle of yellow. None of this ocellate spotting occurs in L. Humboldtii ; the stamens and style are much the same as in the species just named, the anthers being four or five lines long, and the pollen of a brownish orange. This, as well as the two varieties named below, are natives of California. L. pardalinum Bobinsonianum. — This is simply a larger-growing form of L. pardalinum , from which it varies very slightly. In all the plants we have seen cultivated under this name, the pale green stems and alternate-lanceolate leaves have been well-marked features, while in the colour of the flowers the tint of sanguineous red pervading the upper half of the perianth segment is deeper, and the ocellate spots (dark spots on yellow ground within the red portions) are more distinct. L. pardalinum CALIFORnicum.— This Lily was originally collected by Hartwe 1875. THE GLEICHENIA. 219 in California, and is a distinct and handsome form. Mr. Wilson’s plant, from which our figure is derived, grew from 4 ft. to 5 ft. high. The stem was green, bearing the leaves alternate below, and whorled in the upper parts, the whorls being seven to ten-leaved. The leaves were sessile, spathulate-oblong or elliptic-oblong, the upper ones lanceolate and undulated. The flowers grew two or three from the upper whorl of leaf-like bracts, and two or three others from the axils of the upper¬ most leaves. The flowers were much like those of pardalinum, but richer-coloured, the perianth segments being of a rich tawny-yellow on the lower half, thickly marked with blood-red spots, while the upper half was of a clear reddish-crimson, a few of the upper spots within the range of the crimson ground-colour being surrounded by a ring of yellow. The anthers bore pollen of a brownish orange. Our plate abundantly shows that in these three Californian Lilies we have some of the most showy of modern introductions amongst our bulbous-rooted garden flowers. — T. Moore. THE GLEICHENIA. HE Gleichenia is a most beautiful genus of Ferns, and it may be added, most useful one too, for the different sorts are not only a welcome addition in making up cut flowers — especially when large vases have to be filled, their fine fronds having then an opportunity of displaying themselves to much advantage — but they are also most effective for decoration and exhibition purposes when well grown. A good specimen tells well either in a collection of ferns or of foliage plants. We sometimes hear that they are thought to be diffi¬ cult to cultivate, but in my own experience I do not find this to be the case. They are, it is true, liable to failure, as, indeed, are any other plants, especially if the start is not made with good healthy stock ; in fact, in that case a good specimen cannot be produced unless it be by mere chance. Mr. Shuttleworth, of Preston, is one of the most successful growers of this group of Ferns, his specimens being very large ; and I believe he finds no diffi¬ culty7- in cultivating most of the kinds. Those that are natives of Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand, and New Caledonia, he grows in a cool house, and they are potted in a compost consisting of little else than fibrous loam. I must say that I never saw plants looking more vigorous than these, and at the exhibitions of this year they have been models of perfection. They are exceedingly well adapted for carrying to an exhibition, as they seldom suffer from the cold. To grow them successfully they must be kept during winter in an intermediate house, where the temperature ranges from 45° to 50°, and in summer in a cool house, or conservatory, shaded from the sun. The soil to be used is good fibrous peat and loam mixed with sand, and they should be potted in shallow pots or pans, well drained ; if put in deep pots, they do not root deeply, as they prefer a good surface of soil for their creeping rhizomes to spread over. It is a good plan to raise the soil in the centre, so that the rhizomes may have a chance of descend- Thcy require a liberal supply of water when in a growing state, but u 2 ing over it. 220 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ OCTOBER, as stagnant moisture must not be allowed to remain about the roots, they must have good drainage, so that the water may pass off quickly. On the other hand, they should never be allowed to get dry at the roots, as this extreme may kill them, or if it does not, the fronds will shrivel and the plants will become unsightly. • The propagation of Gleichenias is effected by division when the plants are in vigorous growth ; they must be kept shaded from the sun, and be kept free from insects, such as scale, thrips, &c., which are liable to infest them if they are not kept in a healthy state. — B. S. Williams, Victoria Nursery , Holloway. EARLY TOMATOS. fDO not know a more profitable crop than Early Tomatos. They require so little attention, and are so difficult to destroy by ordinary treatment. The ? wonder is that they are not more plentiful in the spring and early summer months than they are. The fruit is used in so many different ways, that if more attention were given to their culture very different results than those we now commonly see would be realised. The present is a good time to plant for spring crops. If the plants are raised from cuttings they do not grow so freely, but they produce fruit earlier than if grown from seed. I prefer growing them in pots, filled with fibrous loam and well-rotted leaf-mould. When they are in their permanent quarters, the roots may be allowed to grow through the bottoms of the pots, and the plants will thrive and bear fruit up to the following winter if necessary. As regards training, single stems, from which all the laterals are rubbed off as soon as they appear, offer the most simple way of treating them, and they should be allowed to run as far as they can find head- way. We have had fine fruit ripe in March, the pots having stood on bricks over the hot- water pipes in vineries ; and having been well fed with manure-water, the same plants have yielded abundantly throughout the season. In newly-planted vineries, where grapes from “ supernumeraries ” are not really essential, Tomatos trained between the rafters as cordons, and kept within bounds so as not to injure the vines, will give returns many times more valuable than those from the temporary vines. In an early vinery here, with Tomatos planted between the young vines, we have had excellent crops since April, and they are now bearing as abundantly as ever. — M. Temple, Blenheim. CYPRIPEDIUM JAPONICUM. EW plants can compete with this in the combined qualities of hardiness* beauty, singularity, and rarity. Till bloomed last spring by the New Plant Company, it was only known in this country by drawings which bore so little resemblance to other known Lady’s-Slippers, that some hesitation in accepting them as genuine representations was not only pardonable, but justifiable. The annexed sketch, for which we are indebted to the Company above named, and which has been prepared from fresh flowers, leaves no further room for doubt. C. jajoonicum may now be accepted as a fine hardy perennial, OYPHIPEDIUM japqnicum. I V 222 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ October, with a most remarkable and unique style of growth, and very handsome flowers besides. The creeping flexuose rhizome is as thick as a quill, beset here and there with scales, and emitting numerous roots. The shaggy stems are erect, about a foot high, bearing a pair of sub-opposite rhomboid-ovate, repandly-undulate, and strongly plicate leaves. The flower is solitary and terminal, protected by a lanceolate bract, the lanceolate-acuminate perianth segments being of a greenish hue, speckled with reddish dots, while the drooping lip is whitish, suffused with pink. The New Plant Company state that this Cypripedium is of very easy culture. The soil found most suitable is a light sandy loam, and the plant should be kept rather dry in winter, and be watered freely while growing. This applies to pot- culture. Out-of-doors, in a prepared border, in a cool, shady spot, and which was never suffered to become dry during March and April, they have been found to succeed well. — T. Moore. CARNATIONS AND PICOTEES. SIXTEEN years have rolled away since, after a yet longer residence in the Midlands, I returned to the neighbourhood of London, and yielding to the force of circumstances I could not control, gave up — albeit most reluct- antly, and like Lot’s wife, with many a wistful look behind — -the cultivation of my favourite flowers, the Carnation and Pieotee. A slight mitigation of these untoward circumstances last spring enabled me to return to my cherished recreation, though on so small a scale that I should smile to describe myself a cultivator. Nevertheless, as I grew forty of the best varieties, or supposed to be the best varieties known, had the advantage of a visit to my friend Mr. Charles Turner’s collection at the Royal Nursery, Slough, wras present on August 13th at the revived exhibition of the National Carnation and Pieotee Society at Manchester, and inspected one or two collections of the Yorkshire growers, I am assured, probably by over-partial friends, that a relation of my experience will be interesting ; and therefore, Mr. Editor, with your kind per* mission, I will proceed to describe it. Sixteen years, half the life-time of a generation, is a large epoch in a human life, but a far more important period in the life of a Carnation or Pieotee, few varieties having stamina to carry them beyond twelve or fifteen years. Yet, upon my inquiry for my well-remembered favourites, I was greatly pleased to find Admiral Curzon, S.B., Dreadnought , S.B.,and Sir Joseph Paxton^ in the same class, yet lived, and not only lived, but maintained their pre-eminence almost undisputed. To these I added Premier , P.F., Squire Meynell , in the same class ; John Bayley , S.F., and Sj)ortsman , S.F. ; and not only were these varieties good, but, I am happy to say, they came in a character — save only for size, which was due to the thin, poor soil I alone could command — for quality and beauty of marking I had never seen surpassed. Jenny Lind , C.B., and Falconhridge , P.B., were also among my old favourites, but neither, alas ! retained the position which ■ 1S75. ] CARNATIONS AND PICOTEES. 223 was theirs of right in the days of yore. Of Rose-flakes, no't one of those which delighted our eyes and held pre-eminence sixteen years since retained its posi¬ tion ; and John Keet , a variety quite new to me, was assigned the . first place, and I am bound to say, from my experience, fairly merits it. In Picotees one only, Mrs. Dodwell , red, heavily edged, a variety my friend Mr. Charles Turner did me the honour to name after my wife some twenty years back, remained^ and I am pleased to say had added excellence to its style by the lapse of years. These were the old varieties I grew, and I am delighted to say, excepting only the two I have named above, they fully came up to their well-remembered beauties. When living at Derby, I was frequently told Curzon did not develop the character in the South which belonged to it in the locality of its origin, statements which, coming from the sources they did, I was bound to give credence to ; but I am happy now to be able to assure any of your readers inclined to enter upon the cultivation of these beautiful flowers, that there is an exception to this, for though my stock — one pair only — was so limited, Curzon bloomed in a character I had never known surpassed, even though I had grown thirtyfold more in number. Dreadnought also, a seedling from, and sometimes so closely following the style of Curzon as to be indistinguishable from it, though at others markedly distinct, was as fine in character as the first year I bloomed it, wdien sent to me as an unproved seedling. Premier , P.F., Squire Meynell, P.F., John Bayley , S.F., and Sportsman , S.F., I have already referred to. Mayor of Nottingham (Taylor), a purple-flake, singularly beautiful as an unnamed seedling in ’58 and ’59, had fallen off ; yet, nevertheless, it is a variety that should be grown in the most limited of collections. Of varieties of Carnations previously unknown to me, I grew Mars (Hextall), S.B., a variety raised, in the last years of his green old age, by my dear departed friend ; two seedling Crimson Bizarres, Eccentric Jack and lamplighter , raised by Mr. Wood, of York ; two seedling Pink Bizarres, raised by Mr. Thomas Bower, of Dirkhill, Bradford, as yet unnamed ; and John Keet , rose-flake. Mars is a seedling from Curzon, the habit of growth of which it follows, is full of rich distinct colour, and must be grown by every one who values distinct¬ ness and first-class quality ; nevertheless, it is rather a break back from Curzon than a step forward, showing to those who can remember it — alas ! how few re¬ main who can — the qualities of Curzon’s parent, Walmsey’s William the Fourth, rather than the pure white and brilliant colours of Curzon. The excessive moisture of the blooming-time was undoubtedly prejudicial to the development of pure white grounds and distinct markings, and we may expect in an average season to escape these drawbacks. But I am bound to set this down, or make myself, what I never yet was, an unfaithful chronicler of my impressions. The two varieties of Mr. Wood’s are both good, Eccentric Jack having the best-formed petal, and Lamplighter the more vivid colours. The two seedlings sent me by Mr. Bower are singularly novel and very 224 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGHST. [ OCTOBER, distinct, having a pink marking, bizarred with marone. No. 1 is the deepest in colour, but is not nearly so much to my taste as No. 2, which has a beautifully- formed petal, very distinctly marked on a clear white ground with a pale pink, bizarred with delicate marone. Altogether it is quite a lady’s flower. John Keet is a grand rose-flake, beautifully marked with rose on a pure white ground, the petals possessing great substance and smoothness. It reminds me of the old and famous variety, May’s Lorenzo. As I have already stated, with one exception, my Picotees were all novel, and it was with no little interest I watched their expansion. Truth compels me to add that my eager expectations were not fulfilled, and had my experience been con¬ fined to my own garden, I should have remained a disbeliever in any progress in this class. Fortunately, my visit to the Royal Nursery, and subsequently to the North, dispossessed me of this feeling, and I saw enough to assure me that I must attribute to accidents of season and of culture what before- time I had feared indicated retrogression. The Red-edged class was in great force, the broad edges being especially remarkable. But for an occasional slight suffusion of colour into the white, the first in place, as in honour, was the Princess of Wales , but Leonora was so good, the solid marking breaking off so distinctly from its lovely ground of white, that she was a worthy competitor even of the Princess. J. B. Bryant , which at its opening seemed somewhat to lack refinement, improved greatly upon acquaintance, and deserves a place in every collection. Mrs. Dodwell , as I have already said, fully maintained the repute with which she was introduced to the Picotee-grower twenty years since, a strong proof of the excellence of stamina in this variety. Light reds were not so good ; neither Mrs. Hornby , Mrs. Bower , nor Mrs. Keynes came up to my ideal of a light edge, though each had points to make them in¬ dispensable to the cultivator ; but I subsequently saw Mrs. Hornby at the Royal Nursery so distinct, and Mrs. Bower in Yorkshire in such character, .that without attempting to define their respective places, I can declare each to deserve high encomium. In the narrow or medium edges, Wm. Summers , a flower of Mr, Simonite’s, was quite to my taste — all that is desirable in quality, form, and formation of petal. Two other heavy-edged reds I saw, in first-rate character, are Peeress (Turner), a variety much in the way of, and doubtless a seedling from, King James, but a great improvement on that good old variety, indispensable for the home stage ; and John Smith (Bower), a seedling, apparently, though different in colour, from the Princess- Alice strain, good alike for exhibition and home use. In heavy-edged Purples, Alliance , Chanticleer , and Norfolk Beauty , three varieties raised by Mr. Fellowes, are distinct and good, and should be in every collection. Had Norfolk Beauty the fine white ground and substance of petal (it is very stout) of Mrs. Summers, it would leave nothing to be desired. As I saw Mrs. Summers in the North, I find it difficult to give the palm to either, so nearly are their claims to pre-eminence balanced. I venture to predict that whoever succeeds in crossing these varieties will be richly rewarded in the issue, 1875. ] CARNATIONS AND PICOTEES. 225 and live long upon the tongues and in the memories of florists. Alliance is a fine narrow-edged heavy, with great breadth of petal ; and Chanticleer, remarkable for its broad band of bright colour, most effective for the home stage, will often be found of great use for the back-row of a twelve on the exhibition-table. Light- edged purples with me were sadly behind the superb flowers I had once grown, but this, as I have already said, appeared to be due to the accidents of the season or culture. Mrs. Little, suffering from a chill in early spring, never recovered the robustness requisite to produce a really fine specimen. Mary was so suffused with colour at the back of the petal, that the ground was lavender rather than white ; and Ganymede , chaste and pure as it was, lacked the size and breadth of petal a leading flower must possess. Yet each of these varieties, even as seen in my garden, were interesting ; they fell off only in the splendour and magnificence of bloom I had been accustomed to get from Amy Robsart. In the North I found Mary , Ann Lord , an unnamed seedling of Mr. Simonite’s, and another of Mr. Bower’s, with all the characteristics of that fine old variety, and gladly recognised that my brother florists had not gone back in their vocation. In the rose and scarlet-edged class, I grew Empress Eugenie and Mrs. Allcroft in light edges, the latter a seedling from, and a decided improvement on, the Empress ; both good. Ethel (Fellowes), medium-edged rose, very bright, and very beautiful. Juliana , a heavily-edged scarlet, the best of its class. Mrs. Fordham , rose, medium edge, large and full, the centre petals a little too crowded and too small, yet nevertheless a most attractive variety ; and Obadiah , the latter a heavily-edged scarlet, but sadly too serrated on the edge of the petal to please me. To these in the coming season I shall add Edith Dombrain (Turner), rose, heavy-edged, occasionally apparently inclined to bar, yet nevertheless indis¬ pensable; Miss Wood (Wood), medium, sometimes a heavily-edged scarlet; Regina (Fellowes), rose, heavily edged ; Fanny Helen (Niven), a variety I saw in the North, small, but very pleasing, a bright rose ; and Mrs. I^ord (Lord), heavy rose edge, the colour rather too faint, but of good quality, and without the slightest spot or bar. Other flowers I saw fine in the North were a light-edged red seedling (Clara) of Mr. Bower’s, very distinct and promising. Mr. Bower had also a beautiful rose-flake, a splendid variety, worthy to contest pre¬ eminence with John Keet. At Manchester, Mr. Simonite had in his stand a very beautiful light-edged red (the same variety taking first prize in its class), a light purple, and a narrow-edged heavy rose, the latter as shown pale in colour, but faded apparently from age. Mr. Lord showed two seedlings — No. 24, a narrow-edged heavy purple, since called Alice , a variety from which I anticipate great things ; and No. 14, bright rose, heavy edge, very pleasing and promising. At the same place I noted a scarlet flake, new to me, Clipper (the raiser’s name I did not get), which I think is likely to be inquired for ; and Annihilator , S.F. (Jackson), as shown in the first stand of three, deserved high encomium. At the Royal Nursery which I visited on the 26th July, a few days too late to see the flowers at the culminating point of their beauty, I noted, in addition 226 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ October, to those I have before referred to, in Scarlet Bizarres, Campanini (Turner) ; in Crimson Bizarres, Albion's Pride and Marshal Ney, two varieties of Mr. Headley’s, than whom no florist has laid his brethren under greater obligation ; Lord Milton (Ely) ; Lord Raglan (Bower), the latter a very distinct and showy variety, very full of colour and bright marking ; and Rifleman (Wood). In Pink and Purple Bizarres, Sarah Payne. In Purple Flakes, Ajax (Hextall) and Juno (Baildon). In Scarlet Flakes, Annihilator , already referred to, and Superb (Ingram) ; in Bose Flakes, James Merryweather (Wood), Sybil (Holmes), and Mrs. Frederick Burnaby (Turner). The latter will, I fear, find little favour amongst Northern florists, its colour being pale, but it is one of the sweetest varieties for the home stage I have ever looked upon. All these I propose to add to my stock, and with these, I believe, I shall possess a collection which can scarcely want any desirable feature, or leave out an especially deserving variety. I was delighted to learn from Mr. Turner that the current of popular favour was running largely in the direction of the Carnation and the Picotee, and from long experience I am well assured no flowers will better repay the suburban cultivator. To the ardent florist, all flowers — I might almost say, all things in nature — are a delight, but conjoined to intrinsic qualities not to be excelled, the Carnation and Picotee possess the yet further great recommenda¬ tion that they will grow, and grow luxuriantly, where other species die or dwindle ; and whether in the full growth and bloom of summer, or in the repose of winter, the beauty of their foliage and variety of their habit afford alike an interesting subject for study, and a pleasant rest for the eye. My remarks have extended to such a length that I must defer some observa¬ tions I had proposed to offer on the Manchester Show for a future opportunity, supposing, Mr. Editor, you will grant one [which we shall be happy to do] ; but I cannot close without recording my sense of the admirable order and high organisation evidenced at the Boyal Nursery, Slough. Many years have passed since my visits to these famous grounds were of annual, or almost annual, re¬ currence, and it is plain to see that in the interval our esteemed friend has fully maintained his place as the foremost cultivator of the day. Turn which way he may, the thoughtful observer will note provision for every exigency, and see in every department practice of the highest art based upon the soundest principles. Of the princely hospitality dispensed by Mr. and Mrs. Turner, I may only say it adds an additional zest to such a day’s enjoyment, and express a hope that both host and hostess may long be spared to rule over such a Boyal establishment. — E. S. Dodwell. USEFUL FLOWEKS FOE TABLE DECORATION. J hr E must now accept Table Decoration as a confirmed institution in most m families. Time and taste work great changes, and among others that of doing away in many places with plants of all descriptions as heavy and unsuitable for the table, and of substituting flat decorations of various 1875. ] THE NEW ROSES OF 1874-5. 227 kinds which, may be thought suitable, adopting such material, through the season, as circumstances may bring to hand. Among stove plants, Achimen.es, Allamanda, Bougainvillea , Cleroclendron , Dipladenia , Gloxinia , cj-c., are more or less employed, but of these by far the best are AUamanda and Dipladenia, They can, if plentiful, be used in threes or fives, on some suitable leaves, so as to form a cluster ; they can be laid in twining lines of design all round the dishes, if there is a chance of obtain¬ ing some long sprays and bunches of the Bignonia Cherere ; if not, the latter itself is good, as some of the sprays can end by being twisted round the candelabra, and fixed there with a piece of silver wire. Dipladenias also are fine objects for this purpose ; and I hope to have some of the new D. Brearleyana for another season ; these grown up the roof of a stove, or in a conservatory with extra root-room, afford a great amount of bloom during the greater part of the season. Many of the stove ferns, or some of the richly-coloured leaves, neatly placed, make a good night’s change now and then. Azaleas are excellent, and to take the remaining bloom upon a plant which is going off, will be no sacrifice ; but I may add that we consider it no sacrifice here to gather and use any of these different flowers for this purpose, because they are gathered up as soon as possible, and put in water to use for the rooms next day. Bignonia grandiflora is. very telling laid in threes on the cloth alone ; the colour adds a great amount of richness or lustre when used with silver and white dishes. Of Rhododendrons , all red sorts are good, as are many of the outside shrubs, and many hardy spring and wild plants. Roses , of course, are always acceptable in any form. A short time ago we covered a table for twenty-five entirely with Roses, taking a row inside the plates ; the fruit-dishes were of our own doing, and round these inside were one and two rows of Roses, the fruit being put on leaves ; above, these dishes were covered outside, or say packed up, to meet those on the table. The sorts used were Baronne Prevost and Duchess of Sutherland ; except the different colours of the fruits, it was one mass of rose and white silver, no dishes being seen. The Roses were full blown, and were in bottles next day by noon, in the form of rose-water. Wreaths of Roses, or Roses laid in a serpentine fashion, or in stars round the dishes, afford a good change. The Clematis, again, is good, as it shows well against white, and can be hung or finished in very graceful forms, as well as festooned amongst other things. — J. Fleming, Cliveden, THE NEW ROSES OF 1874-5. |N the autumn of 1874 no less than 70 varieties of New Roses were announced by the French rosarians. As I have seen the greater part of these varieties ^ in flower, either in the grounds of the raiser, or in my own nurseries, I have ^ thought it may be of some service to intending purchasers to give a brief description of such as have pleased me best, or have been recommended to mo by those in whose judgment I have reason to confide. And first, of the Hybrid Perpetuals. Amelie Hoste is a large, full, and nicely- shaped flower of a flesh-tinted rose-colour ; very distinct and promising. Antoine 228 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ October, Mouton is a very large, full, and finely-formed globular flower, of a bright rose- colour, the reverse of the petals silvery. Arthur Oger is one of those deep velvety purplish-crimson roses, in the Gloire de Ducher style ; the flowers are very large and full. Bernard Verlot is something in the way of Lord Eaglan, the flowers being a scarlety-crimson, shaded with violet-purple, but the form is more globular. Casimir Perrier has dark ruby-red flowers, shading to light red, and possesses the grand quality of blooming constantly. Comtesse de Rocquigny is a pretty and free-growing rose ; flowers white, tinted with salmon, not large, but of perfect globular form. Comtesse de Serenyi bloomed grandly here under glass, its large globular flowers, pink shaded with rose, attracting general attention. Gonsoli Gaelano is distinct and pleasing ; the flowers are glossy white, slightly tinted, large and full. Hippolyte J amain is good ; the flowers are bright rose, shaded with carmine, large, full, and globular. E. Y. Teas is a large rose, the colour deep cerise-red, bright and striking ; the flowers are globular, full, and well formed. La Bosiere is also a large, full, and well-formed flower, amaranth, shaded with bluish-black. La Souveraine is a fine bold flower, much in the way of Madame Clemence Joigneaux, but more double. Madame Lefebre de St. Ouen has bright cerise-red flowers, large, full, free, and sweet. Madame Pougier is a large full rose of cupped form ; the colour is glossy rose. Mdlle. Claire Matthieu is a rose-coloured flower, promising to be a free and showy garden rose. Marie Cordier is a large well-formed flower ; colour deep carmine, illuminated with fiery red. Mariette Biolly is a good garden rose, fresh in colour, large and full. May Turner is a very large rose, full, and of good form ; the colour is salmon-rose. Princess Antoinette Strozzio has bright rose-coloured flowers, which are large, full, and well formed. In Souvenir de Mons. Fontaine the flowers are large and full, bright red, the base of the petals shaded. Souvenir du Baron de Semur is a fine colour, velvety-purple shaded with fiery red and black ; the growth is not vigorous here. Villaret de Joyeuse stands well among the novelties of this year ; the flowers are rose shaded, large, full, and finely formed. There is one Perpetual Moss — Soupert et Notting — a bright rose-coloured flower of the size and shape of the old Cabbage Rose, bearing more moss than some of its congeners. There are also some Tea-scented Roses with which I am more than satisfied. Aline Sisley is a full well-formed violet-red rose, a colour new and much wanted in this section. Comte de Sembui produces coppery-salmon flowers, which are large, full, and finely formed. Jean Ducher is salmon-yellow, the interior of the flower shaded with peach-colour ; this is a large, full, and free-flowering globular rose. Madame Bonnet Eymard is white, with yellowish centre, not large, but full, and very free. Madame Devoncourt produces nicely-formed flowers, of a pale straw-colour. Madame Therese Genevay has flowers of a rosy-peach colour, large, full, cupped, and free. Marie Guillot , as a white rose, slightly tinged with yellow, promises well ; it is large, full, of good form, hardy, and free. Marie Opoix is another white, with yellowish centre, sometimes tinted with pink ; also of good form. Perle des Jardins flowered finely here ; the colour is canary-yellow ; 1875. ] GARDEN WORK FOR OCTOBER. 229 large, full, well-shaped, hardy, and free. Shirley Hibberd is new in colour — nan¬ keen, and flowers freely. Therese Loth bears rose-coloured flowers, with a brighter centre. The above include the varieties which most favourably impressed me in this their probationary state, but I do not wish it to be inferred that I condemn those which I have left unnoticed. Neither do I pass any opinion on the English seedlings, because they are open to inspection by any one who may be inclined to visit them in the nurseries of the raisers. I may say, however, in conclusion, that I think this year has produced more than the average number of really good new varieties. — William Paul, Paul's Nurseries , Waltham Cross , Herts. GARDEN WORK FOR OCTOBER. FLOWERS. HE fine genial weather we have experienced during August and September has greatly improved our flower-gardens, bringing out a gay display of flowers which, considering the strength the plants had attained previous to blooming, is likely to be continued with fine genial weather until late in autumn. However, we may now expect sharp frosts, and must be prepared to remove all tender plants at once, for when they are allowed to get frost-bitten they do not winter so safely. As soon as any of the beds become shabby they should be cleared, and after the middle of the month planted with Bulbs , Perennials , or Evergreens. The latter answer best in places where a display is only desired during the winter months ; otherwise, a preponderance of one class of plant is not so enjoyable, and a judicious blending with spring^flowering plants, so as to create variety, will prove most satisfactory. Pelargoniums when lifted, more particularly the tender variegated sorts, should have the roots and tops freely trimmed and be potted into small pots, afterwards starting them in a slight heat until established ; by this means they make finer plants than if allowed to remain inactive throughout the winter. Lift Carnations that are grown in borders for blooming in pots ; after repotting, stake and tie, and place them in a shady situation for a short time ; guard against over-potting, and after they are established for a few days, place them in a light, thoroughly ventilated pit, near to the glass, when they may be brought into bloom in batches as required by introducing them into a slight heat, as the bloom-buds should now be prominent. Violets should now be removed into frames for winter-blooming, filling up between them with friable soil to within 1 ft. or 16 in. of the glass ; be careful to remove them with as much of the roots and of the balls of soil attached as possible, and plant firmly, placing them moderately close together. The Neapo¬ litan may be packed as closely as the balls will admit of, but strong varieties, as the Czar and Victoria Regina, with large leaves, must be set wider apart. By solid planting we encourage the production of flowers, as under restricted culti¬ vation with glass, more particularly with the strong-growing sorts, there is a tendency to over-luxuriance at the expense of blossoms. Herbaceous borders should now have a thorough clearing, removing decaying annuals, &c. Amongst the hardy perennials now in bloom, the varieties of Anemone japonica are very effective; the white kind, Honorine Jaubert , being one of the most desirable border plants, as it makes a most effective display, and remains for such a length of time in bloom. 230 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ October, Evergreens that are now transplanted will quickly establish themselves ; it frequently happens that such as are removed now will stand a severe winter the best. Turfing, and other repairs upon lawns may now be done, keeping the grass and walks cleanly swept and rolled, for without assiduous attention at this season of the year, anything like order or neatness is not possible. Conservatory : Let all roof-climbers be now kept within as limited bounds as possible, as it is necessary to admit as much light into the interior as possible, keeping the plants as thin and fully exposed as is consistent with effec¬ tiveness. Bouvarclias will now be serviceable here ; and Primulas will be coming into bloom, as will also the earliest varieties of Camellias and of Chrysanthemums. Even at this season there ought to be no scarcity of flowering plants ; and now that indoor plants are most appreciated, every effort should be made to have the conservatory as gay as possible. Camellias should now in a general way be kept as cool and airy as possible, giving an abundance of air both night and day ; but by no means must they be allowed to suffer for want of water at the root ; dryness in excess, either atmospherically or at the root, is conducive to bud¬ dropping. Cinerarias should now have the benefit of a light airy pit, and be kept near the glass ; assisting those that are established in their flowering pots by constant applications of weak manure-water. Those that were struck early will now require shifting on, using a rich open fibrous compost ; they must not be allowed to become pot-bound, but be shifted on as soon as the roots reach the sides of the pots, keeping them moist and growing freely. Fumigate to prevent green-fly, and keep under mildew by the use of sulphur. Primulas intended for autumn and winter blooming should at once be placed in a, close pit, and kept near to the glass, assisting such as are throwing up flower-spikes with frequent application of manure-water. The young plants should have the blooms pinched out as they appear, and the latest batches shifted on as they require it, as they grow freely in a light airy atmosphere at this season. Greenhouse plants should now be safely housed, and it will be necessary to keep the atmosphere as dry as possible by watering early in the day, giving all the air it is possible during fine weather. Attend to the tying of Azaleas and all plants that require it. Soft-wooded Plants, such as Solanums , that have been planted out during the summer, should now be lifted and placed in as small pots as the roots can be forced into, as the less growth they make after shifting the better they display their berries. Keep Cyclamens near to the glass, and care¬ fully water them at the root. Epiphyllums and Bouvardias will now do best with a little heat, as they develop their blooms more freely in a genial temperature. Stoves : Such plants as Poinsettias and Euphorbias, which are required for early blooming, should now be encouraged in a brisk growing atmosphere, using the syringe freely. Give attention to growing stock, and see that the plants re¬ ceive no check, as plants that bloom in winter, as well as foliage-plants for decoration, must be kept healthy ; whilst specimen-plants, and such as have matured their growth, will require a drier atmosphere, with less heat and less moisture at the root. Remove all roof-climbers that may exclude light, and promote the ripening of Achimenes , Caladiums , tuberons Begonias , none of them were heavier than those I have just gathered from a west wall. Gansel’s Bergamot and Knight’s Monarch are also unusually large, and so is Beurre Ranee, all excellent winter pears — for although the Bergamot can scarcely be called a winter pear, yet we have it keeping till the New Year. . I never saw a better sample of Marie Louise — large and beautifully coloured. A heavy watering with liquid manure in June no doubt tended to increase the size greatly. Easter Beurre does well on the same site, but it has been cropped rather heavily, and they are not so large as they would have been. This, the finest of all winter pears, is very valuable in the months of March and April. Where trees are, and these sorts are not, I would advise fruit-budding them in quantity on bare portions of the stem ; it is not too late to do this, if the weather keeps open. All those kinds I have mentioned here, and many more, are on the pear stock, and are large trees, but have still room for extension, which I consider the life of a fruitful tree, having taken out rider-trees a year or two ago from between them. I think a south or west pear- wall planted with those first-class winter pears, is a valuable acquisition in a garden, and in my estimation ranks next to a house of Lady Downe’s Grapes, when one is expected to present an eatable dessert from the New Year and onwards. — Henry Knight, Floors. THE EDINBURGH CHAMPION CLUSTERS OF GRAPES. DINBURGH may well be proud of its recent International Fruit Show (held on September 15 and 16 last), since, over and above its general success, there were amongst the exhibits on that occasion, the two largest clusters of Grapes on record. The accompanying illustrations, for the use of which we are indebted to the Gardeners’ Chronicle , show these magnificent clusters as they lay on their respective exhibition-trays, the figures being prepared from photographs taken during the exhibition. The credit of growing the bunch 1875 THE EDINBURGH CHAMPION CLUSTERS OE GRAPES. 245 The Eskdale Cluster of Raisin de Calabre : weight, 2G lb. 4 oz. The Arkleton Cluster of White Nice: weight, 25 lb. 15 oz. L-rf- * !' */& 7c r£M. S. j r/ -.■i-'-irr1 — H 246 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ November, of Raisin de Calabre belongs to Mr. Curror, gardener to G. Douglas, Esq., of Eskbank, near Dalkeith ; while that of producing the White Nice belongs to Mr. Dickson, gardener to John Jardine, Esq., of Arkleton, Langholme, near Glasgow, who has been the fortunate exhibitor of very large clusters on some previous occasions. We have received from a correspondent the following interesting particulars respecting the Eskbank Grapes, which we here introduce : — 44 Finding myself in Edinburgh the day before the International Fruit and Flower Show opened, I inquired amongst my gardening friends for the where¬ abouts of the monster bunch of Raisin de Calabre Grapes , which it was rumoured was about to astonish the whole world of Grape-growers, and soon found myself on the road to Eskbank, Dalkeith, the residence of George Douglas, Esq. 44 Eskbank is a suburb of Dalkeith, on the direct coach-road to 4 Auld Reekie,’ and Mr. Douglas’s villa stands in a garden of about one and a half acres in extent, the flower and kitchen-gardens and plant-houses being at the rear. The flower- garden is small, — the bedding-out neat. The kitchen-garden is small, too, and well cropped, considering the soil, which is of a light, gravelly nature. Two small houses contain a nice collection of Ferns, another structure contains a small but healthy collection of Orchids, amongst which was the shy-flowering Epiden- drum prismatocarpum, with three spikes of its beautiful creamy-white black- spotted flowers. Another small lean-to does duty as a greenhouse, and contained a good show of bloom. 44 Then came the all-important objects of my visit — the Vineries. These are two in number, lean-tos, about 20 ft. each in length, and 14 ft. wide, 11 ft. high at the back, and well heated with liot-water. They have been built some seven or eight years ; and were planted under the directions of Mr. William Thomson, then at Dalkeith, now of Clovenfords. The border consists simply of one-half of the light gravelly soil before mentioned, the other half of yellowish clayey- loam, with the addition to the whole of a few broken bones, and some manure. The border is 4 ft. deep and 13 ft. wide. The Vines are planted inside ; and every year, both outside and inside, the usual dressings of rich manure are applied. 44 Unfortunately for me I did not get to Eskbank early enough in the day to see the large bunch cut, but I saw it shortly after it was fixed on its tray, and also the cane from which it was cut. Its weight then was 26 lbs. 4 oz., a decidedly handsome bunch for its size, with fairly well-swelled berries, which had been well thinned in the first instance — the bunch after cut standing up firm and plump on its exhibition-tray. 44 1 have many times heard it said that ii> the case of these very large bunches, all the others are cut off to concentrate the energy of the vine on' the single prodigy ; but such was certainly not the case here, for on the same cane was another bunch which, I should think, would turn the scale at 161b., and two others at about. 6 lb. each. In other words, the cane, which is only abou 1 6 ft 187-5 ] ROSE HEDGES. 247 long, carried an approximate weight of 54£ lb. — a grand crop, it must be ad¬ mitted. Mr. Curror, the worthy gardener, who has had charge of the vines from the commencement, told me that this cane had always done well, and one needed 0 only to look at the strong, well-browned wood and ample foliage, to be assured of the fact. Mr. Curror also mentioned that a much larger bunch had 4 shown ’ last spring on the same cane, but the lateral, unfortunately, got broken off in attempting to tie it up too soon. “ It may be asked, What were the other Grapes like in the same house? and my answer is, ‘ Remarkably good.’ A cane of Lady Downe’s carried eight bunches from 3 lb. to 4 lb. each, perfect in form, colour, and bloom. Mrs. Pince’s Black Muscat carried eight bunches weighing about 5 lb. each ; very fine berries, but not well coloured. Two canes of Black Alicante had an aggregate of twelve bunches, two of which would weigh from G lb. to 8 lb., and the remainder about 2 lb. each. Each and all of these were splendidly finished, and with one of the heavier bunches Mr. Curror had no difficulty in winning the first prize in the class for Black Grapes, judged for their bloom only. “ The Grapes in the other house were nearly all cut, so that I could only judge of the sample from a few Black Hamburg’s, which were not large in the bunch, but fine in berry. The other sorts grown are Duke of Buccleuch, Duchess of Buccleuch, and Buckland Sweetwater, and I was told they had all been good. “To wind up these notes, I may state further as regards Mr. Curror’s practice that he uses no more fire-heat than he can help, the most being applied when the Vines are in flower, and again when they begin to colour. He waters liberally both inside and out, never protects the borders from rain in winter, and gives about three thoroughly good soakings with either clear "water or guano ; and except to assist the Vines in breaking, when the syringe is used several times a day, they are not wretted in this manner at any subsequent period. As regards ventilation, Mr. Curror has a practice which is not common, at least, amongst English grape-growers, namely, that of giving air both back and front all night, when the weather permits. I think this has more to do with the production of large grapes than is generally credited, and with your permission, on some other occasion, I should like to say a few words on this and another hint or two which I have picked up, on the still all- absorbing topic of Grape-culture. — Sabina.” KOSE HEDGES. jVfHERE is, perhaps, nothing so telling in a garden or pleasure-ground as a good hedge of Boses, and there is no Rose so well adapted for this purpose as the old FeUemherg. It begins to bloom with the opening of the spring, and continues up to the close of the autumn ; and where it has plenty of room, it is for months a most splendid mass of crimson. It does for screens 8 ft. or 10 ft. high, and any one possessing a croquet or tennis lawn, and wishing in a rosy way to screen himself from his neighbours’ view, should buy Fellemberg for 248 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ November, tlie purpose. It will also afford loads of buds for table decoration, and for cutting, wlien others are all gone. There is, moreover, no better rose for making rose-water ; if gathered with the hip or pip, it is here considered equal to the Old Perpetual. A- hedge of from 5 ft. to 6 ft. high wants very little support, and quite as little training or pruning, clipping at the sides and top to the required height being all that it gets here. For bedding, unless high, it does not answer, since it does not succeed with pegging. Any one can fancy the beauty of such amass rising up from the grass 6 ft., and covered with great loose clusters of crimson, ever expanding. It propagates as easily as the Currant or Gooseberry. — J. Fleming, Cliveden. ERANTPIEMUM PULCHELLUM FOR WINTER BLOOMING. W late years the demand on some gardeners for a continuous supply of cut flowers is truly astonishing. I have had my share, and have had to make both ends meet in some fashion or other. The latest difficulty I found was to be prepared, at a moment’s notice, with certain colours ; for the latest absurdity was to have certain colours to go with certain dinner-services, or to have flowers for the hair of the same colour as those of the dresses to be worn. Now amongst forced flowers, blues are rare, therefore I have found this favourite old plant, the Eranthemum pulchellum , is very desirable. When struck from euttings in the early part of February, and highly cultivated, they will make nice bushes by the month of August, when they should be removed from the stove to the cool greenhouse, to check further excitement to growth. Then, if they are introduced to a lively temperature of from 65° to 70° in the early part of November, and if possible, provided with bottom -heat, they will blossom beauti¬ fully through December and January. After flowering, if they are cut down, disrooted, and carried through the same routine as above recommended for the cuttings, they will make better bushes still by the autumn following, and bearing more flowers in proportion to the foliage. These plants delight in abundance of moisture at the root, and if the pots are small, they are better kept in pans of water when in flower. The soil should be about equal proportions of loam, peat, and leaf -mould. — Edward Bennett, Babley Gardens , Herts. MR. RIVERS’ NEW FRUITS. FEW years ago, I determined on giving the Peaches and Nectarines from Sawbridgewortli a trial, and have now for two years taken crops from those first sent out. Of these, five are so excellent, that besides strongly recom¬ mending them, I will briefly detail their respective merits : — Pavers' Early « York Peach : Tender, rich, and juicy ; large and bears freely. Ripens ten days earlier than the old Royal George. Lord Napier Nectarine : Large, rich, juicy, and crops heavily. It is the earliest 1875. ] GARDEN WORK FOR NOVEMBER. 249 I have ; this variety does not drop when ripe, and if not gathered will shrivel, and is then delicious. Alexandra Noblesse Peach: A great triumph ; large, rich, delicate ; will bear cropping, and ripens thoroughly as a standard in mid-season. Pine-apple Nectarine : Large, of fine flavour, but as a standard requires the best situation in the house. Victoria Nectarine : Large and of exquisite flavour, and sets so freely as to require several thinnings. Even under glass this fine Nectarine requires a wall. I am still (September 22) taking fruit daily, and for several years have gathered the last on Michaelmas Day, so that Napier and Victoria have extended the Nectarine season to nearly two months. All these fine varieties are robust and of free-growing habit. They are all grown here in the orchard-house as trained standards and planted out, except Victoria. I have planted the “ early ” varieties as they came out, but from luxuriant growth they have fruited so imperfectly that I will defer a description of them till next year, when I purpose to register the ripening period of each, as well as of the old kinds hitherto cultivated.-— G. D. GARDEN WORK FOR NOVEMBER, FLOWERS. W that the summer beauty of the flower-garden has departed, no effort should be spared to render the general appearance of this department as enjoyable and interesting as possible. In this phase of embellishment we are at last making rapid progress ; so that in place of the cold sterility which, as a general rule, once characterised our parterres during the dreary winter months, we are enabled, through the employment of the more distinct and higher- coloured evergreen shrubs, to create a most agreeable scene, which renders the loss of the gaudy summer subjects the less to baregretted. No favourable occasion should now be lost of replenishing the beds, whilst, for the present, unremitting attention will be requisite to preserve anything like neatness and order. As a set-off to the fast-falling leaves and decaying vegetation, well-kept turf and bright, firm walks are most desirable. Herbaceous borders should now have a thorough clearing out, dividing and replanting such fibrous-rooted Perennials as require it. Plant out Biennials. Thin and transplant out Annuals , making the ground solid around them. Plant Lilies in ground that is thoroughly drained, in a deep, friable compost, and finish the planting of Bulbs of every description. Ranunculuses , in well-drained soils, are best planted at once, whilst upon cold wet soils they are better deferred until February. A deep open soil suits them best ; let the beds be well stirred up at least 2 ft. deep, working into the bottom a good proportion of fresh loam, with well-rotted cow-dung, which should be thoroughly incorporated. The surface 6 in. of soil should be free from manure, and should be rendered open by the addition of a little leaf-soil and sand. The roots are apt to perish when placed in actual contact with manure when in a dormant state. Plant in rows 5 in. apart, and cover the roots about 2 in. in depth, strewing a little sand over the crowns when planted. When swelling, the roots are more particularly susceptible of injury from frost, and 250 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [November, should be protected with a slight covering of leaf-soil or decomposed loam. Fern may be placed over the beds during severe frosts, but it is necessary to guard against weakening the plants by drawing, and such protection is sometimes in¬ jurious by generating damp ; an inch-and-a-half of leaf-soil is perhaps the best and only necessary protector. The Anemones are so closely allied to the Ranunculus, that they may be treated" almost in the same way, but being hardier, the whole should be planted in autumn. In planting, cover the roots about three inches in depth. Dahlias should be lifted as soon as the tops are destroyed by frost, cutting short the stems ; and when the roots are properly dried they should be stored away in a cool place free from frost, yet where they are not likely to shrivel. Shrubberies : Transplant and prune deciduous trees and shrubs as soon as their leaves have fallen ; and what planting of Evergreens may yet remain to be done during autumn should be seen to at once, as they do not succeed so well when transplanted during the dormant winter months. Take advantage of favourable weather to carry out premeditated ground-work alterations. Levelling and turfing repairs may also receive attention. Frequently roll lawns, to keep under worm-casts. Roses should be lifted as soon as the leaves have fallen, but never previously, as they are apt to loose by evaporation, and consequent shrivelling of the bark ; more particularly is this destructive when they are exposed during long journeys. In preparing ground for Roses, let it be trenched 2^ft.'deep, and well incorporated with a liberal dressing of manure to the full depth of the soil, adding fresh heavy loam when the soil is light. Plantations that are in an unhealthy state should be lifted, shortening back the roots and replanting firmly in fresh soil. Standards should at once be staked. Brier Stocks should now be planted, as well as cuttings of Manetti for budding. Conservatory : At present Chrysanthemums will form one of the chief features of attraction. They soon succumb in a close, warm atmosphere, and require a situation where air can be given freely at every favourable opportunity, for unless they can be freely exposed to air they are liable to be attacked by mildew. Salvia splendens is one of the most effective decorative plants at the present season, associating well with the Chrysanthemums. Calanthes will now be in bloom, and are second to none as graceful, decorative plants ; with moderate watering, and a temperature not under 50° at night, they last a length of time in bloom. I find the Hybrid Veronicas most effective conservatory plants throughout the autumn ; plants that are rooted this autumn, and either planted out or grown in pots during the summer months, make profuse-blooming plants at this season. V. imperialism amaranth-red, is a very desirable variety ; and V. rubra-superba , magenta, with yellow anthers, is very effective ; as is V. rosea elegans , and the varieties of V. Andersoni. Keep the foliage of Camellias and Orange-trees perfectly clean, for besides the brighter appearance they present, it is beneficial to health. Moderate the use of fire-heat as far as may be consistent with the health of the majority of the plants employed. Greenhouse: Frequently examine those plants which are liable to suffer from mildew and damp. LeschenaultiaSm Boronias , Eutaxias , Pimeleas , - NEPENTHES INTERMEDIA. vrfHtA YBRID Pitclier-plants would have been thought beyond the range of pro- ’ bability not many years since : as mythical as hybrid orchids then were ; but m so rapid is the progress of horticulture, that not only have hybrid orchids, some of great beauty, been obtained in considerable numbers, but hybrid Y 258 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ November, Pitclier-plants have followed in their wake, and Messrs. Veitch and Sons’ staff of assistants have obtained for them several forms of acknowledged distinctness and merit as ornamental plants. Their account of Nepenthes intermedia is as follows : — “ A very distinct hybrid, raised at this nursery, and obtained by our foreman, Mr. Court, from N. Rafflesiana and an unnamed species with small spotted pitchers. The plant is of robust and free growth. The pitchers, which are produced very abundantly, are somewhat similar in shape to those of N. Rafflesiana , but longer, and are densely spotted and flaked with reddish-brown. This novelty will prove an excellent companion to the well-known N. Rafflesiana and N. Dominiana ,” — the latter also a hybrid. It has been awarded a First-class Certificate at South Kensington. We are indebted to the Messrs. Veitch for the use of the figure.' — T. Moore. THE GOLDEN RETINOSPORAS. jT is somewhat singular that we so seldom meet with this class of plants in our $3 pleasure-grounds. This omission certainly cannot arise from their extravagant price, but rather, I should imagine, from an imperfect knowledge of their intrinsic merit. I would offer this caution, that in no case should they be planted in close shrubberries, for obvious reasons. They are impatient of con¬ finement, their colour suffers, and they lose their bottom branches by the rapid advance of their more vigorous neighbours, unless constantly kept in check by a watchful eye. It cannot be said that they are particular as to soil, only they dislike the limestone, and the chalk still worse. In either, the habit is stunted, and the foliage assumes a singed appearance, which has anything but a pleasing appearance. Even when growing freely, the pretty Golden Retinosporas are apt to produce strong side-shoots, which, if allowed to go unchecked, rob the terminal leader of its power, and thus give the plant a squat or spreading habit. There are several golden kinds of Retinospora , but among them the best and those of the most decided colour will be found in R. obtusa aurea, R. pisifera aureci , and R. pisifera nana aurea. — Alexander Cramb, Tortworth. STANDARD PEACH-TREES IN THE OPEN GROUND. ;BOUT the middle of September last, Mr. Small, of the Old Nursery, Colnbrook, drew my attention to three small standard Peach-trees which were growing in the open ground, and were laden with fruit, fast ap¬ proaching to maturity, and this without protection in the springs or any attention whatever through the summer. The varieties were the Roped George and Galande. I have since had a communication from Mr. Small, dated September 30, in which he says : — “ I have this day gathered the last of the standard Peaches you saw here, in all 240 fruit, which ripened between the 18th and the end of the month. I may add that this is not the first time by many that I have gathered Peaches from standard trees. The fruit realised a good price in the market.” The fact of Peaches ripening in the open ground in an ordinary season like 1875. ] ZONAL AND NOSEGAY PELARGONIUMS. — I. 259 the present, goes to prove that the summers, in the southern parts of our island, are quite warm enough to ripen any of our mid-season Peaches without the aid of walls, &c. The drawback to this mode of Peach-culture is the prevalence of spring frosts. If we could get the fruit set, there would be no fear but that they would ripen. This consideration seems to suggest the adoption of some simple appliance so as to ensure the setting. Suppose that a square or border of dwarf standard trees were planted in a favourable situation, the soil being properly pre¬ pared and well drained for their reception. After the first year’s growth, the trees would require to be lifted and root-pruned, to encourage them to make short, fruitful growth, and when in that state the wood would be sure to get well ripened. The next thing to be considered would be how to protect the blossoms in the spring. I should advise that a light framework should be placed over the trees, and fitted with canvas blinds on rollers. This would afford ample protection, and after the crop was safe from risk of injury from frost, the cover¬ ing could be taken away till required the following season. There would be comparatively little trouble afterwards, as the trees would be much less subject to the attacks of green-fly than those on the walls. — J. Powell, Frogmore. ZONAL AND NOSEGAY PELARGONIUMS.— I. vU-.fp are certainly indebted to the newly-formed Pelargonium Society for a most interesting, and it might fairly be added, complete exhibition of uv^ all the latest improvements in the zonal and nosegay types. This society offered prizes for collections in conjunction with the Royal Hor¬ ticultural Society’s great show on July 21, and growers came out strong, the plants staged being remarkable, not so much for their size as for the beautiful development of their flowers. We could not have employed such an appreciative treat but through the co-operation of Dr. Denny, Mr. Thomas Moore, and their friends. True, all these newer Pelargoniums are sent to Oliiswick, and all that can be done by Mr. Barron is done to display them to the best advantage ; but few go there to see them, and consequently many fine varieties have remained almost unknown. The exhibition in question brought a large number of them to the fore, and the finest examples of the two great raisers — Dr. Denny and Mr. J. R. Pearson — as well as those produced by others, were seen to the best advantage, growing in pots and under canvas. That the unpropitious weather prevented but a few from seeding is a matter of great regret. We are now very rich in pink Pelargoniums, and those classed under this hoading, though having rosy-lilac and violet-pink shades, but which are best grouped under the head of pink varieties. They have, indeed, been improved of late. Take Christine , Amaranth , Aprs. William Paul , and Blue Bell , as repre¬ senting the oldest types, and what an advance has been made ! The rich glow of colour in Amaranth is now found associated with the fine form and substance of Mrs. William Paul, and these have undergone improvement also. Taking Pearson’s Lucy Bosworth as representing the highest advance in pale pinks, and Y 2 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ November, 2 GO his Ethel in lilac pinks, it seems difficult to improve upon them. But they will bo improved upon notwithstanding, for indefinite expansion is the- universal law. As one of our most eloquent of modern preachers has remarked : — “Throughout the earth, the gospel preached by nature to man is that of growth. This is the gloriOus marvel, that is ever with us. Seed-grain climbing to waving harvest ; acorn springing up to towering oak ; black coal crystallising to diamond, and flint gathering the heat of the earth, till as opal it meets the dawn with tints pure as its own, on every lowliest grass-blade and leaf is written the story of Ascension.” It is well to describe a few of the leading pink varieties, and let me state at the outlet I should always grow a plant or two of Mrs. William Paul , for its delicate hue of soft pink ; and Blue Bell, for its tint of violet not yet surpassed. I am thinking of these as varieties for pot-culture, and all my notes will be written from that stand-point. Christine, Master Christine, Amaranth, &c., all having loose flowers and narrow petals, I exclude from my selections. I com¬ mence with Pose of Allendale (Denny), clear pink, fine pip, excellent truss, and good habit of growth, a very useful decorative variety ; Mrs. Turner (Pearson), lilac-pink, very fine-rounded pip, and nobletr uss, extra fine, for exhibition ; Lucy (Pearson), fine rich pucy-pink, large bold pip and truss, very bright and effective ; Miss Blanche Story (Pearson), very bright soft pink, most pleasing in shade, fine pip and large truss ; Lady Emily (Pearson), rich clear pink,, a most winning glow of colour, fine pip and truss, and free habit ; Mrs. F. Barnaby (Pearson), violet- pink, very charming in hue, good bold truss ; Mrs. Flytche (Pearson), a pretty hue of colour, but rather loose in the petal, a charming bedding variety ; Florence Durand (Pearson), deep lilac-pink, very fine truss, a fine exhibition variety when well grown ; Beauty of Dulwich (Smith), clear soft pink, flowers of good substance, fine pip and bold truss ; Mrs. Musters (Pearson), deep lilac-pink, very fine when well grown ; Le L,ord Maire (Lemoine), lively violet-pink, a very pleasing hue of colour, but inclined to come a little rough on the pip ; Mrs. Augusta Miles (Pearson), very rich pale rosy pink, glowing in colour, and very fine ; Robert Evans (Pearson), pink, much suffused with rose, very fine; Matilda (Pearson), pale glowing pink, fine pip and truss.. I have reserved for the last in this section a few of Mr. Pearson’s new varieties, being of superb quality, and it may be remarked that Mr. Pearson appears to be a long way ahead of con¬ temporary florists in the matter of producing pink -flowered Pelargoniums. His newer varieties are L/ady Byron , rich clear pink, very fine pip and splendid truss, a grand show variety ; Lucy Bosivorth , beautiful clear soft pink, very large rounded pip and splendid truss, extra fine ; Ethel , very rich deep lilac-pink, very fine bold pip and large truss, extra fine. The salmon-coloured flowers show a steady improvement, and now that some of Mr. Pearson’s new varieties are becoming striped, they are taking on a certain amount of distinctness of character. Not that striped flow*ers are altogether new, but the Continental varieties with striped flowers are rather poor in quality ; and any advance in this direction will be cordially welcomed. Some of the best types produced at the Pelargonium Society’s meeting were as follows : — Nobby (Gatlin), pale salmon, with carmine stains round the eye, fine pip, and good truss ; Mrs. Catlin (Gatlin), soft salmon, paler towards the margin, bright carmine centre, fine pip and truss ; Pollie King (George), a very chaste and attractive variety, pale salmon, good form; 'Venus (F. and A. Smith), a very pretty shade of salmon, but small truss ; Maud (Pearson), salmon-carmine, blotched with faint red, white 1875. ] GARDEN GOSSIP. 201 eye, and broadly-margined with white ; very pretty and distinct ; Salmon Beauty (Laing), salmon, much flushed with orange, good form ; Edith (Laing), pale salmon, reticulated with white, very pretty and novel ; Mr. Collier (Collier), very pale salmon, orange blotches, narrow white margin, very fine pip, and good truss ; Acme (F. and A. Smith), delicate salmon, bold carmine centre, very fine pip and truss ; Desdemona (Bailey), soft salmon, very chaste and pretty ; Ellen Douglas (Kingsbury), salmon, much flushed with orange all over the petals, very fine form ; and Lizzie llefford (Hefford), clear salmon centre, with slight lines of the same radiating towards the white margin, very pretty and distinct. Mr. Pear¬ son’s newer salmon varieties were not present on this occasion, but I may have something to say about them later on. Forest Hill Nosegay (Laing), clear salmon-red, very showy, and distinct, must not be passed over, as it is very effective as a pot-plant. Of thoroughly fine white flowers we have yet a paucity. The best produced on this occasion were White Clipper ; Snowdon , very fine in colour ; Woman in White (Postans), slightly creamy white ; Snow (PostansJ, pure white ; and N. D. de Beaunarck , flowers of good substance, but very slightly tinged with flesh ; Remus (Paul), white, with pale carmine blotches round the eye ; and Alice Spencer (Hibberd), something in the same way, but white, might fittingly be included among the whites. There are certain varieties having rosy-salmon and cerise flowers that may be appropriately grouped by themselves, because of their undoubted distinctness of character. They are King of Roses (George), rose, dashed with cerise, very distinct, but wanting in quality of the flower ; Circulator (George), cerise, form good, novel in character ; Caven Fox (George), orange-cerise, very distinct and fine ; Charles Burrows (Pearson), cerise, much flushed with orange, distinct and fine. — Bichard Dean, Ealing , W. GARDEN GOSSIP. MONGST the meetings and exhibitions of the autumn season, the Inter¬ national Fruit and Flower Show of the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society , held in Edinburgh, on September 15 and 1G, takes the first place. As a display of finely-grown Grapes, it was marvellous, the two immense cluetors represented at p. 245 being among the exhibits. In the other classes Mr. Hunter of Lambton Castle, and Mr. Johnston of Glamis Castle, exhibited wonderfully fine examples of the principal sorts in cultivation. Indeed, it was, on the whole, probably the finest display of fruit ever brought together in tho United Kingdom. Peaches were remarkable for size and colour, and some grand specimens came from Mr. Braund, Courtown House, Wexford. Nectarines, Apricots, and Plums furnished an average display, while Pears and Apples were both numerous and of good quality. There was in addition a good display of plants, notably some fine groups of novelties and rarities from Messrs. Yeitch and Sons, and Mr. Williams. - £Tiie Fungus Meetings at Perth and at Hereford have this season been remarkably successful, and there can be no doubt that they prove to be very enjoyable to those who at all understand the subject. A number of gentlemen •who devote moro or less attention to the study of cryptogamic botany — fungology in par¬ ticular — assemble at an appointed time, and some three or four days are given up to excur¬ sions for collecting the fungi of the neighbourhood, tho rest of the timo being taken up in arranging the collections for public exhibition, in holding meetings for the reading of papers on this branch of botanical science, and in genial gatherings, not omitting a public dinner, in which various edible fungi naturally form part of tho menu. Some of these are of excellent quality, but for want of generally diffused knowledge of their good qualities are suffered to run to waste. Coprinus comatus , for example, has a most delicately agreeable flavour ; and comatus-soup is sometimes one of the dishes devoured at these fungus forays. 262 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGHST. [ November, - £The International Potato Exhibition , held at the Alexandra Palace, on September 30, and which was organised for the encouragement of the best methods of culture, and the introduction of improved varieties, was both unique of its kind and a remarkable success. The competition in nearly every class was astonishing fora first attempt, and of the 1,860 odd dishes staged there were not many that an ordinary house¬ keeper would object to. Indeed, it may be taken for granted that but few of the visitors ever saw so much beauty in Potatos before. The collection of 24 dishes shown by Mr. R. Dean, and the 12 dishes contributed by Mr. Donaldson, in competition for Messrs. Sutton and Sons’ prizes, were respectively of wonderful quality, and a great source of attraction. - £|mong Edging Plants suitable for either flower or kitchen-garden, are the fine-leaved forms of Festuca , one of which has been introduced under the name of Festuca viridis. This slender-leaved grass makes a remarkably fine and at the same time dense growth, and the leaves are of a bright olive-green colour. It will bear clipping during the summer, and it is so hardy that it will stand through the severest weather without injury. Selected forms of Festuca ovina have for many years been used for edging pur¬ poses in the Chelsea Botanic Garden, and when young are very neat and pretty, but they should not remain over the second year without replanting. The plants split up readily, and may be either dibbled in, or planted in the same way as box-edging. - & useful little book, entitled Handy Book of Ornamental Conifers , and of Ehododendrons and other American-flowering Shrubs, by Hugh Fraser (Blackwood and Sons), has just been published. It is a reprint of papers pub¬ lished in the Gardener , and is exceedingly well adapted for the use of amateurs as an aid in the selection of choice hardy trees and shrubs, specially those of the two groups indicated, for the decoration of their gardens. The hints on cultivation, though brief, are such as would be likely to bo appreciated by those who were seeking for information. - 2bHE Royal Aquarium and Summer and Winter Garden now approaching completion at Westminster has afforded Mr. Eendle a favourable opportunity for showing off his patent system of glazing, of which the Hon. E. C. Curzon re¬ marked, at a meeting held to view the progress of the work, that “ in this edifice there was ample scope for inventive genius, and he had been much struck with the system upon which the glazing of the roof was carried out. The roof was circular, and in the glazing of it the glass was not put in with the usual adjuncts; no putty was used, but the glass was simply slid into the grooves of the frames made to receive it.” The glass, in fact, covers in the wood and ironwork, which is thus relieved from the destructive action of the London atmosphere, while externally only a narrow strip of zinc is seen. - ®he advantage of the new style of Planting Pyramid and Bush Trees over the old method of wholly planting standard trees finds a good illustration in Mr. Dancer’s market-garden grounds at Little Sutton. One large portion is planted with lines of bush trees of Small’s Admirable Apple, the trees 8 ft. apart each way, and they were literally borne down to the ground with the great weight of the fruit. Pyra¬ midal trees of Cox’s Orange Pippin Apple, planted in close lines, bore heavy crops of beautiful fruit, large in size, and brilliantly coloured. On instituting a comparison between these and the large standard trees planted years ago, it is found that the latter cover large spaces of ground, that their crops are not particularly abundant or fine, and that they interfere with the circulation of air among and the incidence of light on the smaller trees about them. The space occupied by one standard tree would equal that occupied by six or more of the bush trees, while the roots must have spread proportionately in the soil beneath. Gathering becomes an easier and quicker process ; ladders are not required, and the handling of ladders among trees sometimes does them injury. Not one of the least of the considerations to be put forward in favour of bush over standard trees is, that a finer quality of fruit is obtained. - ®e have received from Mr. Grainger, of Buckley Hall Gardens, Asliton-under-Lyne, a photograph of a fine specimen of Lilium auratum. It is growing in a No. 2 pot. In 1872, on one flat stem it bore 25 flowers, and on 1875. J GARDEN GOSSIP. 263 wGlJ i Vf’ wkmg a toTtali°.f 40. In 1873, the bulb broke up, and threw out several stems, vi^but few blooms. In 18/4, there were on one stem 50, and on the other 20 flowers, making a total of 70. The present year’s bloom has been extraordinary : several stems were tin ov n out, but one m particular, 3|m. in diameter, bore the enormous number of 70 flowers, tlieie being on the rest of the plants 20, making a total in the third year of its growth of 90 dooms, which is the greatest number of blooms that has been produced. [A plant at Melchet Gouit bore 152 flowers ; and one at Quarry Bank, Liverpool, bore 225 flowers. Both had been grown on from single bulbs.] @The New Double Pelargoniums raised by M. Jean Sisley are stated by Mr. Grieve, of Culford, to be very great acquisitions, being exceedingly beautiful, and of quite a distinct race from tlie double sorts hitherto known. They are of dwarf and compact habit, with foliage of medium size, and distinctly zoned: the flowers are large, semi-double, the centres being loosely filled up with smaller petals, and they form huge globular trusses, thrown well above the foliage. Louis Agassiz has light shaded pink ei.3’ Avlnc,h are £eiT beautiful. Louis Buchner has light bright pink flowers, with salmon- loured centre. Henri Lecoq has flowers of a salmon-shaded pink, the plant dwarf, with heavily zoned foliage, Sylphide is, perhaps, the most beautiful of all, the flowers being of arlr^k mauve or rosy-pink colour. Of older sorts Georges Sand, by the same raiser, is a great c lyance upon Alme Sisley ; the flowers are large, the colour very light rosy-pink, or nearly white. When grown under glass the plant is of dwarf habit, with somewhat small and peculiarly f oi med leaves, slightly zoned. Frangois Periusati has the centre of the flower- salmon, with lighter-coloured margins. Talabot is a rich deep velvety amaranth-colour, an improvement upon Gloire de Lyon. J £t is a commonly entertained opinion that Beaucarneas— plants which are specially remarkable for the great swollen or napiform base of their stems — are extremely slow-growing, and doubtless they are so under the restrictive treat- ment they usually receive which is almost that of succulent plants. We are indebted to Mr. W. B. Kellock, of Stamford Hill, for exploding this false notion. With his choice collection of Agaves and other succulent plants, he cultivates most of the Beaucarneas, and observation and ex¬ periment have induced him to reverse the usual treatment given to these plants. The result is a much more vigorous as well as much more rapid growth. The plants are deluged with water, often twice a day, during summer, and in the dull season, when comparatively at rest, they are never allowed to become dry. The beneficial effect of this treatment is abundantly shown m a fine example, which a year or two since came almost leafless into Mr. Kellock’s hands, but which is now freely clothed with vigorous healthy foliage. It is also apparent in the rapid growth made by young plants. / £The name to be borne by the splendid Lily mentioned at p. 215 is Lilium Parhnanm , after the raiser, Mr. Parkman, wbo is President of the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, and is also known as an author on early American history. — According to Herr Leichtlin, Lilium Ransoni is the proper name of the fine Japanese species which in this country has been exhibited and figured as L. avenaceum. The plant is easily distinguished from L. avenaceum by the bulb, which is laige and solid, like that of a Tiger Lily, while the bulb of L. avenaceum is composed of small loose and oat-like scales The origin of this Lily was unknown till Professor Maximowicz, the distinguished Russian botanist and traveller, recognised it as a plant which he had found at Victoria Gulf, and had supposed to be a yellow variety of L. avenaceum. & supply of good Heath Soil or Peat is of primary importance to the cultivator. It is the earth which is found where heaths grow naturally, and is the peculiai soil of those plants to which the title c American ’ is applied. This and f? Same of ^g-eartk- Of late years, however, it has been called peat an poat-eai th. Peat, strictly speaking, is the black decayed vegetable matter dug out of bogs and turbaries ; it is to most plants inert and useless, but to a few, as the Amaryllids, it a ffoids an aliment of great power. The writers of the day mean by the term “ peat ” to express heath-soil, the bog-earth of long ago ; hence we read of sandy peat, turfy peat, black peat, 264 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGHST. [ November, &c., terms which are applicable only to heatli-soil, and -which express the varying texture of that material. The best heath-soil contains much fibrous matter, and is either black or brownish, the hue depending upon the peculiar nature of the vegetable matter it contains. All these soils usually abound with pure white sand ; hence their peculiar applicability to plants whose roots are very fibrous, tender, and delicate. Pure peat, or the earth of turf-bogs, con¬ tains very little sand ; it is a heavy dead soil, forming, when burnt, a rich manure for inert cold land ; but i'n most instances it is adverse to the gardener. - - ®E find mention in tlie Journal of Horticulture of some remarkably fine Orchard-house Fruit of Cox’s Orange Pippin Apple, grown by Mr. Bass, of Burton-on-Trent — the beauty of their colour, the wonderful delicacy of their flesh, and their richness of flavour being remarkable. Samples of Margil and of the Old Nonpareil were also greatly improved. The lesson to be learned from this is, that apples of this class, which are grown for flavour, are highly improved both in that respect and in appear¬ ance by being grown in an orchard-house. The effect of this system, however, is that the state of ripeness is so much advanced, that the fruit does not keep so long as it does when grown in the usual way. - Laxton lias raised some English Seedling Boses of considerable promise. The best of them is one he has named Mrs. Laxton , a beautiful bright carmine-rose Hybrid Perpetual, which is not only large and full, but of remarkable depth ; the outer petals are smooth and prettily recurved, displaying a compact, full, close-set centre, and it has the advantage of being remarkably sweet-scented. This variety has already gained certificates at the Crystal Palace and Alexandra Park Rose Shows. Lady Isabel Cecil is a small, neat citron-tinted Tea Rose, becoming almost -white — a pretty flower, and nicely scented, and one which may some day, when better established, prove useful. Charles Darwin is a deep crimson Hybrid Porpetual, with cup-shapod but rather shallow flowers, having fine large outer petals, and loosely and -rather thinly filled in the centre. Emily Laxton is a more promising, large-flowered Hybrid Perpetual, of a deep rosy- pink colour, but with the petals somewhat unequal, the outer ones being large and the inner short and irregular, nevertheless a flower which 'may turn out to be an acquisition when better known. * - t&X. S. Ginger, Esq., died at Clarence Lodge, Shirley, Southampton, on the 7th ult., aged 73. He formerly resided near London, and was an amateur cultivator of the Auricula, Polyanthus, and other old-fashioned florists’ flowers ; and at that time was a frequent exhibitor at Chiswick. Horticulture and Horticultural Societies lose in him a generous friend and patron. — *Hr. William Willison, of the Bose Nursery, Whitby, died on the 16th ult., aged 69. He had always been a great lover of plants, and an assiduous raiser of new varieties. Some of his more recent experiments resulted in the production of the double-flo-wered Clematis Willisoni, and he has also been successful in finding and raising some interesting new forms of British Ferns. _ ^igismund Bucker, Esq., of West Hill, Wandsworth, died on the 19th ult., aged 66. He has for more than forty years occupied a foremost position as a patron of orchid-culture, and of horticulture generally, his collection of the former being at one time quite unrivalled. His death leaves a blank no living orchidist can fill, while in private life he was alike beloved by rich and poor. - #lR. Thomas Appleby died on the 20th ult., at Longsight, Manchester, at the advanced age of 80. He was a practical orchidist, having some forty years since been gardener to T. Brockleliurst, Esq., of Macclesfield, who at that day was one of the patrons of orchids. Mr. Appleby wrote a brief treatise on orchid-culture, called the Orchid Manual. Ho was at one time manager of tho Pine-apple Nurseries, but had for some years retired from active life. CTiromo . G-. S evereyn eror 1875. ] THE NATIONAL CARNATION AND FICOTEE SOCIETY. 265 BEGONIA EMPEROR. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. E have already figured one or two of the novel hybridised forms of tuberous Begonias which have sprung from B. Veitchii , Pecircei , and Clarkii crossed with B. boliviensis , and which promise to be so extremely useful for decorative purposes, in the greenhouse and conservatory cer¬ tainly, if not also in the summer flower-garden. We now introduce another of these cross-bred forms, raised by Messrs. Veitch and Sons, of Chelsea, between B. Clarkii and B. Chelsoni , and which when exhibited in June last, before the Floral Committee, received the award of a First-class Certificate. The plant is vigorous in habit, producing stoutish erect fleshy branching purplish-red stems, and ovate acuminate, unequal-sided, distantly-lobed leaves, the edges of which are acutely serrate. The flowers are very large, in axillary clusters of three, one being male and two female. The male flower is sensibly the larger, its two sepals being 2^ in. long and 1^- in. broad, ovate-obtuse, and its two petals somewhat smaller and oblong. The female flowers have five petaloid' organs surmounting the winged ovaries. All the flowers are of a bright orange-red. This is one of the finest of these tuberous-rooted Begonias we have seen, and is most highly to be commended as a decorative plant. With high cultivation, it would make a charming specimen. — T. Moore. THE NATIONAL CARNATION AND PICOTEE SOCIETY : EXHIBITION AT MANCHESTER, AUGUST loTH. CCEPT my thanks, Mr. Editor, for the ready permission given me to make some comment on this Exhibition, held in the large glass conservatory of the Manchester Botanical and Horticultural Society on the above date. As I looked around upon the display, enhanced as it was by a most artistic setting at the hands of the respected Curator of the gardens, my memory reverted to a former Exhibition held in the same building just eighteen years before ; and remembering that of that exhibition, I had felt bound to remark upon the in¬ feriority of the Picotees as compared with the Carnations, a fact very surprising to me, as in “ my experience, the Picotee required much less skill and attention to develop it in perfection than the Carnation,” I noted with great satisfaction the advance made by my Northern friends in this direction, and I am bound to say not only were they fairly abreast of the flowers I had in my own garden, and the fine flowers I had seen at Slough, but in the purple edges — both light and heavy, they had certain varieties in a degree of perfection far beyond what I had seen in the South, and leaving, indeed, little either to be attained or desired. If I say that I marked the blood of some of my own bantlings of a long time ago in several of these most beautiful varieties, and that, if spared, I shall watch with a very special interest their development in my own garden in the coming season, more particularly as it was generally held, I believe, and frequently asserted, that ORD SERIES.— VIII. z 266 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ December, varieties from the Princess Alice strain would not thrive in the softer air of the South, I hope I shall be pardoned the seeming egotism of the remark. I wish, Mr. Editor, that, following this most satisfactory development of varieties and growth, I could say our friends had made equal strides in their mode of setting up their flowers in collections, but here truth compels me to say there was much lacking, and I could not see without regret such opportunity for effective display, save in one or two exceptional cases, either missed or perverted. I should have been glad, in the confidence that my motive would not have been misunderstood, to have given illustrations of this lack or perversion in the mode in which the collections were composed, but seeing an esteemed professional friend copying the names of the flowers, I neglected to take any notes, and un¬ fortunately, when I received his report, I discovered too late that instead of following the old rule of 44 commencing with the back row and reading from left to right,” by some strange misdirection he had reported each collection, not in the order in which it was shown, but in the order of the classes only. My remarks must, therefore, be general ; yet I hope, nevertheless, they may not be lightly passed over by my brother florists, for the more I have thought upon the subject, the more I am confirmed in the opinion that a florist loses half, and the best half, of his enjoyment, who does not give thoughtful and intelligent attention to the accessories and aids to the development of Ijis pets, and to their presenta¬ tion in their very best guise before the eye of an interested public. It was the late Lord Lytton, I believe, who defined taste, as 44 a relish for things intellectually improved,” and as I looked up and down the long table, I could not but feel I was surveying some things open to intellectual improvement. Proud of the florist’s art, assured that his pursuit is 44 not unworthy of a wise man, nor unbefitting a good one,” and always desirous to uphold in their integrity the strictest canons of his law, I could not avoid the conviction that, consciously or unconsciously, there was much which did violate such law, and that, too, by men who, if called upon to determine the merits of individual flowers, would re¬ ject without mercy any in which the colour was found only on one side, or which lacked smoothness on the surface or of the edge, or which was palpably poor in quality or lustreless in colour. Yet several of the collections exhibited palpably faults of this character. Granting exhibitors can only show such flowers as they have on the day of exhibition, and if needs must, must show a preponderating number of some one or other class, it is an exaggeration of such a misfortune to dispose of such a number in a mass, without an attempt even to relieve the in¬ congruity by a judicious arrangement of size. Then, again, ill-painted, dirty, and dingy boxes, varying in size and colours, are a great dis-sight and serious drawback to the perfect success of an exhibition. The dimensions of the boxes, I think, should be prescribed explicitly by the executive, and therefore beyond offering to give these to any one interested, I need say no more on this part of the subject. Put as to the colour, ol* shades of colour, best adapted for the display of flowers, and the best mode of getting-up and arranging them for effect, this is a much 1S75. ] THE NATIONAL CARNATION AND TICOTEE SOCIETY. 207 larger matter, and perhaps you will pardon my repeating some remarks I made on the same subject just twenty years ago. 11 In the first place, as to the colour of the boxes, no one can have attended our chief exhibitions without having his attention drawn to the varying colours and shades of colour employed by the different exhibitors. One will have an imitation of mahogany, another of rosewood, one chooses a pale green, another a blue-green, and everywhere there is diversity. It may help us to choose the best, if we decide what office the box has to fulfil. We hold that it should be a foil to the flowers displayed upon it , and nothing else. To this end, it should con¬ tain nothing to arrest the eye offensively, or markedly to arrest the eye. What the eye must see in its study of the flowers displayed should be such as will afford relief, so that the gaze upon the colours of the flowers may be sustained with pleasure for a longer time. No colour will give this relief so well as dark green, and no colour is less obtrusive, therefore we have long decided that this is best. Dark green is not, however, the best for displaying the colours of the flowers. A lighter shade, and one with a slight admixture of yellow, one, in fact, closely resembling the tint of the newly-opened rose-leaf, does this far more satisfactorily. We therefore use this for the field on which the flowers are placed, and the dark shade for the front, sides, and back of the box. 4 Another important point to attend to is that the colour shall be solid and dense, smooth and as polished as a piece of plate-glass. It is impossible to over¬ estimate the effect attention to these little matters of detail has upon the appearance of flowers, and their influence upon good judges — that is, persons whose eyes have been long educated to discriminate minutely upon the effect of colours, and sensations of softness and smoothness, as opposed to roughness and coarseness. 4 In getting up the flowers for exhibition, it should be remembered that they cannot be handled too little, and that it is far better to show the flower precisely as cut from the plant, than to show it with one-half or more of its petals disfigured by ugly splits. We observed, however, a serious error in the use of the card, which we must point out. Some of the competitors used no support under the card, but having starred the interior, allowed it thus to support itself upon the calyx. The effect of this inevitably was that every petal was pressed upon the other — in short, the flower was choked. Nothing could be more injudicious. The card, light and thin as it may be, is far too heavy and unyielding to be allowed to exert a pressure upon the delicate organisation of the flower. To prevent this, a clear orifice of not less than five-eighths of an inch in diameter should be made in its centre, and its whole weight thrown upon a circle of light paper attached to the calyx in the usual manner. Not only by this arrangement is the flower saved from distortion consequent upon the pressure of the stiff points of a card, but another advantage is gained in the ability to remedy, by the play of the card, the defect occasionally observable of a one-sided bloom — that is, a flower the petals of which are unequally expanded. z 2 268 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ December, ‘ To come now to tlie arrangement of the flowers for effect. It may be safely predicted that that mode will be the best which, with a uniform appearance, shall most largely develop the beauties of contrast or combination in colours. Contrast in the individual flower forms one of the most important of its elements of beauty, and it is of equal value in a collection. Indeed, we may say it is of greater importance, as, dealing with larger quantity, its effects may be made so instantly apparent. Thus the boldness and effect of a broad-edged Pico bee may be enhanced by judiciously placing it by the side of a flower lightly edged, and the brilliancy of a bright scarlet flake Carnation is increased when seen immediately in the neighbourhood of a soft purple flake. Uniformity will be secured by choosing flowers even in size, and by so arranging the blooms that the colour shall be fairly balanced on every side. Colour will be imparted to the collection by the use of scarlet bizarres or dark crimson bizarres, brilliancy by bright scarlet flakes, and softness by clear purple flakes, rose flakes, or light pink bizarres. In all cases care should be taken that the corner flowers be distinct and decided in their character, and the fuller and deeper they are, consistent with distinctness, the better. In Picotees, heavy-edged flowers have a far better effect at the corners than flowers of a lighter character. In these, as with the Carnation, and every other flower, the colour should be nicely balanced, so that the eye may be carried easily over the whole.’ I hope, Mr. Editor, you will not think these extracts too long. They so meet the case, that after reading them several times over, I find myself unable to restate them more effectually, and as the best return I can make to my old and valued friends for the warmth and kindliness of the welcome they gave me at the show, I am anxious to aid them according to my small ability, in every matter open, as I think, to improvement. The Society is most fortunate in the service as honorary secretary of the Rev. F. D. Horner, a son of the late Dr. Horner, of Hull, so widely known to and esteemed by the readers of the early issues of your work ; and is supported by many influential, and if I may presume so to say, intellectual florists of the North. I hope that year by year there may be an exhibition in the beautiful house of the Manchester Botanical and Horticultural Society’s Gardens. But I hope even yet more, that with the revival of the Society, it will recur to its original programme, and change its meetings from year to year from locality to locality, for I can conceive no way more potent to draw attention to the singular beauty of these beautiful flowers, no way so sure of extending the enthusiasm almost all feel when brought in contact with them fairly displayed. The exhibition, as I have already recorded, was rich in new and good varieties. Mr. Simonite’s stand, though low down in the prize list, from the fact that the flowers -were far past their prime, was almost unique, in that it contained twenty- two out of twenty-four flowers — ten Carnations and twelve Picotees — of his own raising. Several of these were of this year’s bloom, and will require to be seen again before an opinion can be given ; but unless I am greatly mistaken, he had 1875. ] FRUIT-TREES FOR NORTH WALLS. 2 GO many flowers destined to occupy tlie thoughts and delight the eyes of florists for some time to come. Subsequent to the show, I visited the garden of Mr. Lord, at Todmorden, and that of Mr. Bower, of Great Horton, Bradford. Mr. Lord has seedlings, several yet to offer to the floral public, which, unless I misjudge them, cannot be surpassed, and it may serve to illustrate the sportiveness of this tribe of flowers, and therefore of their great interest to the seedling raiser, if I tell, as Mr. Lord told me, that Mrs. Lord, rose Picotee, heavy edge, and Cynthia, of the same class, light edge, are seedlings from Mrs. Bayley, purple, heavy-edged, whilst the Rev. F. D. Horner, red, light edge, is from another variety of mine, Mrs. Turner, rose, light edge. Other varieties of Mr. Lord’s, Ann Lord ; No. 3, light purple Picotee ; Nos. 23 and 28 in the same class ; and Nos. 24, 27, and 100, heavy-edged purple, are from Mrs. Hanaford, set with pollen from Mrs. Bayley, and being a strong believer in hereditary quality, I was not surprised to find in these seedlings the highest excellence. Mr. Bower’s Lord Raglan, C.B. ; John Smith, red Picotee Mrs. Bower and Clara, in the same class ; a light-edged purple Picotee as yet un¬ named ; and a rose-flake, much in the way of a good Lovely Ann, which he honoured me by naming E. S. Dodwell, will cause his name long to live amongst florists, and hoping that when the Society next meets I may be there to see, I subscribe myself, Mr. Editor, your most obedient servant — E. S. Dodwell. FRUIT-TREES FOR NORTH WALLS. HAVE often been asked what kind of fruit-trees I would recommend for north walls. Many persons have an idea that few kinds will succeed on f ^ such an aspect, owing to the want of sunshine, and the exposure to the cold. ^ This is, however, a mistaken impression, as many of the best kinds of Plums, Pears, and Cherries succeed well, and bear abundant crops on north walls. Unfortunately gentlemen’s gardens do not always furnish the best example of what can be grown on north walls, from the fact that against one of such walls are generally built the fruit-room, mushroom-house, bothy, potting-sheds, &c. Morello Cherries, a few Currants, and a Plum-tree or two are generally what are grown on north walls. It is an advantage to have a north wall for Plums and Cherries, as they ripen later than on other aspects, and hang a considerable time, thus continuing the season for a much longer period. We have the following Plums on the north walls here — Orleans , Green Gage , linpe'ratrice , Jefferson , Kirk's , Victoria, Magnum Bonum , Washington, and Heine Claude de Bavay (the two last late Plums), all of which bear well, generally better than those on other aspects, as, coming later into flower, they often escape the spring frost, while the others are cut off. Our finest Green Gages are from trees on north walls, and we have them a considerable time after those on south and other aspects are past. On a north wall here, there is a Jefferson Plum-tree, and on a south wall, two fine healthy trees of the same variety ; the former generally bears as many fruit as both the other trees. There are also several kinds 270 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ December, of Cherries on the north wall which do well. They are easily protected when ripe, and keep late into the season. We have no Pear-trees on the north wall, as we have many on the other walls, besides some standards, and a great number of pyramid trees, which yield a quantity of excellent fruit ; but many kinds of Pears do well on north walls. I would not, however, advise to plant Pears on a north wall ; but instead, would strongly recommend the better kinds of Plums. — M. Saul, Stourton. jtJM #1 GROWING MUSHROOMS IN SAW-DUST. Jj'TU'Y noble employer, in common with many other noblemen and gentlemen, keeps a good stud of hunters. In the spring they are all bedded down with saw-dust, which, being allowed to remain for some days, or, for aught I know, some weeks, when it is taken out is found to be pressed hard together, so as to come away in large flakes, looking as much like mill-track spawn as anything that can be imagined. The bed I made up with material of this kind was 67 ft. by 4 ft., in-doors, but without artificial heat. I began to gather in six weeks, and have had a good supply ever since. I may be told that saw-dust creates or favours the growth of fungi, but I must remind those who make this objection that the dust is all from green sound wood, and the question is simply this — does sound- wood saw- dust generate fungus like old or decayed wood ? I should like the opinion of some of your scientific readers on this question. — R. Gilbert, Burgldey , Stamford. SCALDING OF GRAPES. HE annoyance caused by Grapes u spotting ” during the stoning period is evidently not on the decrease, and though in some gardens it is confined chiefly to Lady Downe’s Seedling, it shows itself in other places on most of the late kinds, and that often to a very alarming extent. I have seen Alicantes, Muscats, Trebbianos, and even Black Hamburghs severely attacked, and much mischief done. It is generally believed that giving an abundance of air, keeping the house dry, and never allowing it to be entirely closed at any time, will secure immunity from this formidable plague, and in a great measure this is correct ; but there remains a difficulty in accounting for the evil. Why should it appear in some places and not in others ? In one place I have had it attack the Lady Downe’s severely in one house, and the same variety has escaped in an adjoining structure with only a glass partition separating the vines. I never had Lady Downe’s do so well as when planted at the warmest end of a Muscat house, where a vine was put in inadvertently, and the flavour of the Grapes from the vine under the scorching treatment was superior to anything I ever tasted under other conditions, with the same kind. Moreover, though it ripened early in August (it was fully coloured in July), the keeping qualities were of the highest order, as I have often gained prizes with them in April. In the worst cases of scalding which I have seen the borders were rich and 1875. NOTE ON LEEKS. — ADIANTUM SPECIOSUM. 271 cold — in one case especially, where a quantity of old leather trimmings had been mixed in the soil. In a contemporary we read of a successful grower who says that he conquers the enemy by high night-temperature. Now, we are aware of some skilful men who have been signally defeated by maintaining high night- temperature ; and we know others who neither study temperature, humidity, nor any other requisite, and yet spot or any other pest is unknown to them. Some of us are ready enough to attribute success to our own skilful management, when actually we have no enemy to contend with ; and a neighbour’s defeat is often attributed to anything but the right cause. In all its important bearings, the real cause of “ spot ” on Grapes is not known. If some of our scientific friends would examine the soil in which Vines that suffer from this evil are growing, also the water applied, much light might be thrown on the matter. — M. Temple. NOTE ON LEEKS. READ with interest Mr. Forsyth’s notes on Leeks, at p. 92, and heartily agree with his remarks as to the neglect into which the culture of that use¬ ful vegetable has fallen, but I cannot fall in with his observations as to the Leek being a “stiff-necked biennial.” Miller in his Dictionary (1731) states that Leek seed from old stools or plants degenerates. I have one of such up¬ wards of thirty years old. The Leek ( Allium Porrum ) is a native of Switzerland, and according to Loudon was introduced into England in 1562. There is indeed every reason for believing that it was introduced prior to that time ; while, as to the Onion (. Allium Cepa ), Neil observes that neither the native country nor date of its introduction to this country are known ; but although the history of the Onion can be imperfectly traced in Europe, there is no doubt as to its great antiquity in Africa, since there is evidence that the bulb was known and much esteemed in Egypt 2,000 years before Christ. The Israelites, we are told, craved for the leeks, onions, and garlic of Egypt. — J. Wighton, Cossey Park. ADIANTUM SPECIOSUM. jMONGST the very distinct-looking groups into which the species of Adiantum , or Maidenhair Fern — peculiar as is the genus for its natural character — may be thrown, that of the scandent, or semiscandent ones, is perhaps the most remarkable. To it belong A. Feei (flexuosum), A. digitatum , and the subject of our present notice, A. speciosum , the present having the climbing habit the least developed of the three. Of the general habit of the plant and its beauty, the accompanying illustration from Messrs. Veitch’s Catalogue for 1875 gives a good idea. The fronds often reach a length of 3 ft., and a breadth of nearly 2 ft. ; they are tripinnate, with spreading pinnae, the pinnules of which average from £ to 1 in. across or more, the margin being cut into cuneate lobes, which are truncated and soriferous at the apex. The whole frond is covered with dense short hairs, which render it soft and woolly to the touch. The spreading arching habit, and deeply-lobed 272 THE FLORIST AND FOMOLOGIST. [ December, pinnules, give it an appearance of elegance fully equal to tliat of any of its compeers, while its downy surface imparts to it an air of distinctness, the great majority of the species being smooth- surfaced. It has another peculiarity, which is shared by few other species of A diantum , that of being deciduous, the fronds dying away in winter. It is a native of Peru, whence it was introduced by Messrs. Yeitcli and Sons, by whom it has been recently put in commerce. — T. Moore. p 1S75. ] DIEFFENBACIIIA BRASILIENSIS 273 DIEFFENBACHIA -BRASILIENSIS. I^NE of Messrs. Veitch and Sons’ novelties for the present season, and one which has received Certificates from both the Royal Horticultural and Royal Botanic Societies. The accompanying figure, which Messrs. Veitch have been good enough to place at our disposal, shows it to a highly meri¬ torious subject in its class, — that of ornamental-leaved stove plants. It has the 274 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. December, same dwarfish, sturdy, well-furnished habit of growth as D. Bausei, the upright stocky stems being furnished with oblong-ovate petiolate leaves, averaging some 18 in. in length, and from Gin. to 9 in. in breadth. The variegation is very striking, the ground-colour being a deep green, thickly marked or mottled over the whole surface with smallish intermingled irregular blotches of greenish-yellow and white, producing a most beautiful variegation. It is quite an acquisition amongst stove evergreen variegated plants. — T. Moore. THE CULTURE OF WALL-FRUITS. Chapter V. — The Peach and Nectarine ( Continued ). ^OMPOSTS. — In the formation of a Compost for Peaches and Nectarines, it is better to aim at one which is sufficiently strong to retain a considerable amount of moisture, without being so unduly stiff as to prevent the water from percolating freely through it. For although composts of a hot, dry, and porous nature will very often contribute at first to the production of very fruitful wood, hard and well-ripened ; yet the process is a very exhaustive one, and the trees cannot be kept in anything like a free-growing and healthy condi¬ tion, unless they have copious supplies of water during the growing season, and even then they are usually short-lived. Without therefore making it so stiff as to hold water in suspension, the operator will find that a comparatively strong compost, whilst involving a considerably less amount of trouble than lighter and more porous ones, will conduce more to the permanent well-doing of the trees, and at the same time afford a better means of bringing them under discipline, because they will possess a more certain power of reproduction under that dis¬ cipline, owing to the greater strength of the compost. I recommend therefore that the staple of the compost shall consist of four parts out of six of a sound and rather strong loam, not sandy, as sandy soils are apt to be poor, and we have to avoid the necessity for using stimulating materials in the early stages of growth ; it should, however, be tough and full of fibre. The first six inches of a deep loam on a dry bottom, such as may often be found at the foot of steep declivities of pasture-lands, where it has probably accumulated through many centuries, from the continued washings of the sides of the hills by heavy rains, which have carried down worm-casts and other debris for the grass at the bottom to retain in position, and thus gradually to add to the depth of the staple. This forms the best of all loams, if the situation is such that no water can stagnate about it. Such a loam will be found very suitable for our present purpose, and it should be carted to some convenient place a year before being used, and during that period frequently turned over, for the benefit of exposing it freely to the sun and air is very great. During these manipulations, the other two parts, consisting of burnt clay, charcoal, old mortar, rubbish, if attainable, and broken bones, may be added, together with an occasional sprinkling of salt, which will help to destroy noxious vermin, and be of material and lasting benefit to the trees. All stone fruits are greatly benefited by a slight admixture of salt 1875. ] GARDEN WORK FOR DECEMBER. 275 in the soil, or, failing that, by a handful or two being thrown into the water whenever it may be found necessary to apply the latter. We will now suppose the border to be prepared, the compost wheeled in, as before directed, and to be ready for planting. This should be done at the end of September, so that the planting may take place early in October. Previously to this, say in the. month of August, the planter would do well to go to a good nursery and select his trees. In making his selection, he will find the benefit of a knowledge of the first principles which I have before explained ; for he must reject all trees, however fine they may appear, which have a preponderance of large luxuriant shoots, and the minor ones weak and spindly, and he should select such as have the shoots equally disposed on each side of the centre, and all, as nearly as possible, of equal strength, and likely to become well-ripened hard sound wood. A knowledge’ of this latter character may be acquired by those who are interested in the subject, by comparing the different character¬ istics of growth that may be observed in trees planted under various and some¬ times opposite conditions. Thus, poor soils will bring poor trees, generally, however hard and well-ripened ; while, on the contrary, strong and rich soils will bring forward very grand-looking trees, but the fluent growth is treacherous, and not to be depended upon. In making selections, therefore, the moderately strong and equal in growth are those most to be desired. The planter should also reject all such trees as have been frequently headed back closely, as these are apt in after-times, to form a large excrescence at the point from which the shoot, radiate, which is not only ugly, but will often obstruct the free flow of the saps and hence induce premature decay. The best will be found to be of the second or third year, according to the size and age required, from the heading-back of the maiden tree, care having been taken not to cut back too closely. The reason for this advice I must reserve for my next chapter. — John Cox, Redlecif. GARDEN WORK FOR DECEMBER. FLOWERS. HE continuous wet has greatly hindered all ground-work operations in the flower-garden, and whatever planting may yet remain undone should have the earliest attention. Take advantage of dry and frosty weather to carry out premeditated ground-work alterations ; lay turf, and attend to levelling, and otherwise repairing lawns, during open weather ; lay box-.edgings ; prune, nail, or otherwise train all hardy, deciduous plants and climbers. The grass must be frequently rolled during mild weather to keep under worm-casts, make a thorough clearing of leaves, and everywhere preserve neatness and order, for without smooth turf and solid walks, so formed that water never stands upon them, the garden can never be thoroughly enjoyed. The planting of Deciduous Trees and Shnibs should now be vigorously pushed forward, firmly and securely staking such as may require support — this operation should never be postponed, as root-action is often seriously retarded by the plants being swayed to and fro by wind ; mulch the surface, particularly in the case of all valuable plants. Prune and tliin-out deciduous hardy shrubs, giving space to 270 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ December, the most desirable varieties, and endeavour to create as great a variety as possible, with easy and graceful outlines. At all times guard against crowding, giving to the prominent plants space for development. To plant successfully, and with any degree of certainty, calculation and forethought are requisite, studying the habits and future development of the various plants employed, and striving to give relief by a free admixture of the various colours and forms, both as regards foliage and flowering plants. Attend to the protection of all tender plants, and see that the materials employed are sufficiently open, and not likely to generate damp. Clear up leaves and stack them away, as they form most valuable compost when rotted. In the case of Hoses , lose no favourable opportunity to complete planting operations, staking the Standards as planted, and mulching the surface. Roses delight in a firm soil, and therefore should be planted solidly ; protect tender sorts. Conservatories should now give a brilliant display of floral beauty, and at no season of the year are their bright hues more appreciated or welcome. We have Camellias and Azaleas in abundance, with the flaming colours of Poinsett ias and Euphorbia jacqitinice flora , Ac., which are so famous for lighting up and giving relief to groups of foliage. Plumbago rosea is one of the best plants at this season of the year, as are also the free and effective-flowering Centropogon Lucy- anus and Epiphyllums in variety. Eupatorium odoratum and E. fragrans are both plants worth growing in quantity for decorative purposes at this season of the year. Jasminum grandiflorum in the shape of grafted plants, single and double Narcissus , Roman Hyacinths , with a few pots of Violets , are at all times welcomed for their fragrance ; Heaths , Epacrises , Cyclamens , Primulas , and that old effective and favourite plant, Richardia cethiopica, are also amongst the most effective for conservatory embellishment at this season. The temperature of conservatories should not be kept at the present time higher than will suit the majority of the occupants ; at the same time, it will be dangerous to allow it to fall below 50°, as it would endanger the standing of many of the most valuable plants. Stoves : The majority of the plants in these should be still kept at rest, using fire-heat moderately, and watering sparingly. Take every opportunity to eradicate insect pests. Such plants as are required for decorative purposes must be afforded a genial temperature, so as to keep the foliage fresh, whilst at the same time they should be sufficiently hardened as not to be liable to suffer when placed in rooms. Eorcing-IIouse : Introduce successional batches of plants as required, and see that the fermenting material is in an active state, as a moist, stimulating medium will be found congenial to development of growth. Examine Bulbs that are buried in ashes, removing such as are rooted ; and introduce fresh batches in succession. Rhododendrons , Roses (Teas, in particular), Deutzias , Rhodoras , Kalmias , Prunus , Lilacs ; Clematis , such as Albert Victor, Fair Rosamond, Lady Londesborough, Stella, and Miss Bateman ; Iloteia japonica, and various Spirceas, &c., may now be brought forward. In the Greenhouses , Hard-wooded Plants should have a free admission of air on all favourable occasions, and the plants should be kept near to the glass. Any plants that show signs of damping should be elevated ; and dust with sulphur such as become attacked with mildew. Water should be given with moderation ; at the same time, the frequent surface-dribbling system is objectionable, being apt to keep the surface-soil moist, while the lower portion of the ball is dry, and the roots perishing in consequence. From this cause more particularly large specimens suffer. When water is necessary, see that it is efficiently given, so as 1S75. ] GARDEN WORK FOR DECEMBER. 277 to reach every portion of the ball. During frosty weather, it is a safe practice to keep a correspondingly low temperature, in preference to using excess of fire-heat, and the atmosphere should be somewhat dry, to prevent damping. Be careful to avoid cold draught. , Cinerarias must be shifted as soon as the roots reach the outside of the pots, as they never recover the effects of becoming matted in the pots ; place them near to the glass, and sufficiently thin them, so as to admit light and air around them ; fumigate, to prevent green-fly. In potting, use a light compost of equal parts of turfy loam, rotten manure, and leaf-soil, adding sand, to keep the soil healthy and open. Give all the air possible on every favourable opportunity. Calceolarias : The above remarks are in a great measure applicable to these, with the exception that in potting they should have a heavy, rich loam, with rotten cow-dung, and a cool moist atmosphere, with a free admission of air. At no time must they become dry at the root, for unless this is attended to they are sure to become infested with the thrips and green-fly, from which they must be kept free. Bedding Plants : Everything in pits and frames requires constant attention to prevent damping ; and a circulation of air must be secured whenever the atmo¬ sphere is dry, using caution during dull foggy weather. Water early in the morning during bright days ; as little water as possible should be spilled. Hollyhocks , Stocks , Carnations. Pansies , Wallflowers , and similar plants grown in cold frames, must have abundant air. — Geo. Westland, Witley Court. FRUITS. Vinery : If the early house was started last month, the temperature should be gradually increased ; at present, the night temperature may range from 50° to 55°, and 60° by the end of the month ; do not hurry them in dull weather, but during sunshine the temperature may rise to 15° higher, air being given at every favourable opportunity. Keep the air humid by syringing and sprinkling the floor of the house, especially if it is heated by flues. Tie-in the shoots as they advance, and stop them as soon as the bunch is visible. Prepare for starting the succession-house by the middle of the month. All vines in the late houses should be pruned as soon as the crop is cleared. When Pot Vines are in full leaf, begin to feed them with liquid manure occasionally ; both this and water should always be used of the same temperature as that of the house they occupy. Pines : Succession-plants in dung-pits that are not otherwise heated should have the linings turned and fresh stable-manure added, so that the temperature does not fall below 65° ; do not syringe them or give any water at the root for the present ; give a little air in fine weather, closing early in the afternoon, and covering the pits every night. Those plants intended for starting into fruit next month should have the temperature increased to 80°, with a moderately dry atmosphere ; and if the bottom-heat is on the decline, the bed should be turned and the plants replunged. If any strong suckers are making their appearance on these plants, they had better be removed at once. Plants in fruit should not suffer from drought ; keep up a moist high temperature by sprinkling the house, and syringe the plants with the exception of those in flower ; give a little air from the back of the pit in fine weather, but close early in the afternoon. Peaches and Nectarines : Apply fire-lieat with caution to the early house ; do not let the night temperature exceed 50°, and permit a rise of 10° or 15° during sunshine ; syringe the trees, and close early in the afternoon. This treatment should be continued till the blossoms begin to expand, Cover the outside borders, 278 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ December, for tlie purpose of warding-off frost and drenching rains. Get the trees tied in the next house, and make all ready for starting them by the end of the month. Cherries : If these fruits are required very early, the trees should be got under glass by the end of the month ; plunge the pots, and top-dress them with fresh loam and rotten manure. A temperature of 45° at night is sufficient to begin “with, and the requisite moisture must be maintained by syringing the trees. Give air always through the day during sunshine. The May Duke and Frogmore Early Bigarreau are the best for early work. Strawberries in Pots : Some of the early varieties, such as Keens' Seedling , Black Prince , and La Grosse Sucree , may be placed in the forcing-house toward the end of the month; no water should be given them for a time, except the soil is very dry. Hardy Fruits : The heavy rains of last month have probably prevented many from getting forward with planting, root-pruning, &c., as advised last month ; if, therefore, the weather proves favourable, these works should be pro¬ ceeded with at once, before severe frost sets in. Proceed with the pruning, nailing, &c., of all wall-trees at all times when the weather is favourable, be¬ ginning with Pears , Plums , and Cherries. See previous directions in regard to cleansing the trees from scale and moss. All small fruit-trees may now be pruned, with the exception of Gooseberries , and the first opportunity should be embraced of wheeling manure on to the quarters, in readiness to be forked-in about the trees when the weather is open. Trench ground for new plantations, as well as for planting Strawberries in the spring. Protect' Figs with mats or fern ; or if the trees are fan-trained, unnail them, and bring the branches to the bottom of the wall, and cover with stable-litter. Pay attention to the Fruit- store, and see that no decayed or spotty fruit remain in the room. No air need be admitted after this time, except the store is damp ; if so, air may be given at times in dry weather. — J. Powell, Frogmore. VEGETABLES. Very severe weather, if it comes at all, generally visits us during the month of December ; it will be well, therefore, to make every preparation for it, as however difficult it may be to prognosticate aright, there seems to be a very general opinion that a severe winter is at hand. During a mild period, therefore, place a little additional soil up to and around the leaves of Celery, this not alone to make up for the slight settling-down of the soil, after so much rain-fall, but also as a security to such additional superficial, or leaf-growth, as the plants may have made since the operation was performed. Take up and store also Jerusalem Artichokes, Horse-radish , fyc.. for more immediate use. Cardoons may in like manner be stored away in sand, and all the necessary means undertaken to insure a supply of Lettuces and Endive. Cut and store such late Broccoli as may have hearted. Cover over plants of Cauliflowers , where the necessary means exist ; and if snow is anticipated, place some kind of protection over Parsley , to guarantee a supply. This last and Mint , Tarragon , Chervil , and Fennel may also be boxed, or potted up and placed in warmth, in readiness for the early demands. Hot-beds should be made up during the latter part of the month, whereon to plant Potatos for the earliest supply, and to sow Carrots (Short Horn) upon for a like purpose ; goodly-sized beds should be made to insure that a goodly bulk of heat be engendered and retained ; and this heat must be allowed to moderate itself down somewhat permanently before the intended crops are planted or sown, as neither crop requires a great heat, though a moderate and constant 1875. J THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY AND GARDENING. 279 degree is of material importance ; as soon as superficial growth is developed, let air be given carefully and with freedom. The Mushroom- house will need constant attention, now that it should be carrying crops. These latter will require constantly periodical syringings, or dampings over-head with tepid water. Continue to make up fresh beds, as quickly as the necessary materials for that purpose can be got together ; they must be moderately dryv and as I have so often urged, well beaten down; never spawn any until no doubt exists that a permanent heat not exceeding 70° or 75° is assured. Place into this structure the necessary supplies of Seakale for producing a constant or successional crop, the crowns being taken up carefully from the open ground and buried in soil therein, and kept well watered and away from either fresh air or light. Chicory may be also placed for a like purpose, and to insure a crop of well-blanched material for an aid to the salad-bowl. Sow Mustard and Cress for a like purpose. The general or main work in this department should consist of the necessary digging-up and trenching of all vacant ground. Manure heavily at all times when practicable, and dig or trench deeply, according to the capacity of the sub-soil to be worked upon. Finally, get all such operations as forward as possible, and so that, as Christmas and the New Year approach, all may be done. — William Earley, Valentines. THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY & GARDENING. SuHE able remarks of Mr. W. Paul in the Florist and Pomologist (p. 241) in regard to the Royal Horticultural Society and its influence on garden- fing, are but the u clothed thoughts ” of many horticulturists, at least in part. It is very greatly feared that, however much one may wish to see gardening advanced through this medium, the results cannot at the best be very great. It is not in the Academy, but in the Studio, that genius searches out its favoured ones, through whom higher art attainments are to be displayed, from amongst its votaries. The trumpeters sound to the charge, but the single warriors do the deeds of daring which shed lustre on the united arms. So it is in gardening. It is in the many gardens, the workshops, where success will have to be wrought out, if at all, and that amongst all of them, from the best-furnished down to the most lowly. Let, therefore, no one mistake the facts. Horticulture is making rapid strides, not, as some would evidently have us suppose, by the light of any individual luminary, but rather, and let this be well marked, as the outcome of a spontaneously diffused desire for the beautiful amongst the masses, and a worthy system of emulation which has sprung up amongst gardeners themselves. To doubt these facts, or to be blind to their existence, or to pooh-pooh them, would tend to strangle the rising genius, which would recoil on those who attempted it. Let no one expect too much from the Royal Horticultural Society. Above all, let no one assume it to be the home of all the sciences. Treat its Directors, the Council, as men whose intentions are earnest, aiding as far as they are able the broad-cast advance of the art ; not as demagogues who can coun¬ tenance no advance but such as is made in accordance with their exclusive dictum*— as some would lead us to suppose; It has been my happy experience 280 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ December, during the past few months to have been associated with the originators of several new Floral Societies, some of which are now established in the densely- populated metropolis, and the feeling of these originators, the masonry of kind¬ ness displayed and maintained, should put to shame those who quarrel so loudly over these w dry bones.” Depend upon it, horticulture is, as Mr. Paul rightly puts it, “a Science ” — an elevating and a worthy science. It is, in fact, both a Science and an Art, and has come to-be such through an association of cultivated taste, elevated senti¬ ments, and an innate love — the truest of all promptings — of the really beautiful. The Royal Horticultural Society may aid this Science, may assist in diffusing a greater and increased love of this Art, and we must all hope that it is yet destined to take the lead in this matter ; but it can no more stay their onward march than it can “ shut the flood-gates of thought.” Unfortunately, however, it is capable of self-injury, of wounding and lacerating its own fair form, and bringing injury into its personal domain, in opposition to all that is apposite to its primary inten¬ tions and formation. Horticulture in 1875 needs not the prestige of titled names or of Royal Societies to insure its ultimate prosperity ; the former may be good for the latter, but in the earnest warfare to which I have pointed, horticulture needs no extraneous helps. Sorry indeed would be its future, were this the case. The past has given ample proof that to raise the order we must elevate the individual. No society can advance the legitimate wage-price, or teach individual members ; hence practical workers must aid and emulate each other, and they who lend their thoughts and abilities to this end are the true gardeners, and the best friends of gardening, f.e., horticulture. The wretched debt so frequently referred to will never permit the Royal Horticultural Society to assume its legitimate position, whilst it hangs like a mill¬ stone about its neck. Temporary help at 5 per cent, interest does but lay aside the load for a time, that it may become weightier in the future. If the Society is worth purchasing at such a price, then, even though a Council may not be justified in making the proposal or acting in the matter, cannot individual Fellows apply to all well-wishers of the cause for subscriptions sufficient to pay off this incubus. Thus only can the Society be assured of another fair start, or one holding out a hope of even moderate success. — William Earley, Valentines. PEAKS FOR THE NORTH OF SCOTLAND. HE two Pears named below — Beurre Navez * and Comte cle Lam y — have done so well with me in this and in former seasons, that I venture to recommend them for similar cultivation. They are both fine-looking fruit, and the quality, especially that of the former sort, is excellent. It ripens * Beurre Navez is described by Mr. Scott as follows: — “Roundish turbinate, bossed near the top; skin greenish-yellow, slightly dotted with grey, patched and clouded with brownish russet, and often tinged with rose on the sunny side ; stalk long and bent, sometimes short and straight, inserted in a wide knobbed cavity; eye large, half-closed, and rather deeply set; flesh white, firm, half-melting, juicy, sugary, and acidulated, and with a delicate, musky perfume. The tree forma one of the handsomest pyramids possible, either on the pear or quince stock, and bears* abundantly. . J.L.Macfarlane del. Peai’ Louise Bonne d 'Avr a riches Panachee. ■i 1875. J THE POLYANTHUS. 281 . immediately after Louise Bonne of Jersey , which with me has this season been particularly fine, both on espaliers and standards. Marie Louise , under similar treatment, is also large, russety, and fine. The year 1875 will be long remembered in the North of Scotland for its large crops of Pears, and the high quality of the fruit. — J. Webster, Gordon Castle. LOUISE BONNE D’AVRANCHES PANACHEE PEAR. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. wNE of the most useful of dessert Pears in its Season — October — is the Louise Bonne of Jersey , one of the synonyms of which is Louise Bonne J ' Avranches. Of this excellent Pear, that which we now figure is a variety which originated, as Dr. Hogg tells us, in a bud-sport, and in consequence of its beautifully marked fruit was distinguished as the striped variety ( panachee ). A glance at our figure will show its leading peculiarity, and will also indicate how desirable it is, that so handsome a fruit should be freely cultivated, so as to become a frequent ornament to the dessert-table. The Striped Louise Bonne , as may indeed be concluded from its origin, is in all respects similar to the well-known Louise Bonne of Jersey — or Bonne Louise , as some say it should be called. It is a good grower, and a good bearer ; it succeeds well as a pyramid on the quince stock ; it is invariably of good quality and flavour ; it may be had for some time in use in the autumn season ; and a good sample nicely coloured forms a dish of most tempting fruit for the table, and one, moreover, which will bear the test of trial, seeing that its quality equals its appearance. — T. Moore. THE POLYANTHUS. JNDER this heading I intend to treat of the fine old named varieties that were once pretty common, but now unhappily very scarce. Here are a dozen varieties that twenty years ago were somewhat generally grown : — Alexander (Pearson), Beauty of England (Maud), Cheshire Favourite (Sanders), Duke of Northumberland (Thompson), Earl of Leicester (Hufton), Exile (Cronshaw), George the Fourth (Buck), Highland Mary (Oraiggy), King (Nicholson), Kingfisher (Addis), Lord John Russell (Clegg), and Princess Royal (Collier). Add to these Bullock’s Lancer and Nicholson’s Bang Europe, and we have the cream of the varieties that were grown by the past generation of florists. Alas ! how difficult to obtain any of them now. I have Cheshire Favourite. Exile, and Lancer, and beyond the possession of these I am not able to get. These, with Kingfisher and Beauty of England, put in an appearance at the meeting of the National Auricula Society at Manchester, but no one appears to have them in quantity. I am afraid that hard propagation has had some¬ thing to do with bringing about a certain deterioration of constitution ; and BB 282 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ December, any one wlio would succeed with these named Polyanthuses must pay them very great and constant attention. I am confirmed in this opinion by a letter just received from a Manchester cultivator. And yet, after all, a highly finished Polyanthus, after the style set up by the old florists, is a lovely flower, and it is incumbent on florists to set themselves to work in order to promote its improvement. Some of the Northern growers have taken seed from the named sorts, and among dozens of seedlings no advance has manifested itself. But the hand of the cultivator must not be stayed, and if he be persistent in his endeavours, he will eventually succeed. The demand now being made for named Polyanthuses is a proof that they possess a greater interest than they did a few years ago. I have made crosses with Lancer and Cheshire Favourite, and with the last and Exile, and I hope to get something good ; but as a rule, seedling Polyanthuses are very disappointing. Two years ago a keen old florist, who has made the Polyanthus a speciality for many years past, sent me a box of seedlings raised from seed taken from a few of the finest flowers ; but some of the greatest rubbish sprang from them, and it was remarkable to see the number of pin-eyed flowers that appeared among them. A little caution is now necessary on the part of purchasers of named Poly¬ anthus. I have known mere seedlings offered as the old named varieties, to the great disappointment of the purchaser. Unfortunately there are those in flori¬ culture who in this way prey on the non-vigilant grower. On the other hand, lists of named Polyanthuses are now being offered that in several instances lack the fine qualities that distinguished the flowers of a quarter of a century ago. We want to go forward rather than backward ; a large measure of Haddock’s somewhat loose ideal is as yet unrealised, and till a nearer approach is made to it, the energies of raisers should not be suffered to abate. — R. Dean, Ealing. CROSSING AZALEA MOLLIS AND INDICA. JN 1872, I had six varieties of the showy hardy Azalea mollis from M. Van ^ Houtte, named as follows : — Isabelle Van Houtte , dark nankeen colour ; Madame Camille Van Langenhone , white, striped with rose and carmine ; Nonpareil , white, bordered with rose, a fine variety ; Ebenezer Pyke, buff- yellow ; Centi Striatella and Baroness Rothschild. I find that all the varieties cross very readily with Azalea sinensis — the yellow and white varieties, and I have many healthy seedlings this year from these crosses. I have likewise this season set, with mollis, some flowers of the fine strong-growing orange-scarlet Indian Azalea Stella, and the seed seems to be swelling well, so that there is a chance of a new strain in Azaleas. When planted out in masses the varieties of Azalea mollis must have a grand effect in the shrubbery, from the size of their flowers, and their bright colours. All my plants of it are yet in pots, but they have stood out all the winter unprotected, so that they are as hardy as any of the Ghent Azaleas. — William Tillery. 1875. ] ACALYPHA WILKESIANA MARGINATA. 283 ON RAISING THE CLEMATIS FROM SEED. tS a liardy plant now indispensable as a climber in shrubberies and for clumping, I may instance the Clematis , of which it is very easy to raise a ¥ large collection from seed in a short time. Last year, I seeded some of the early-flowering sorts, such as Albert Victor, Lady Londesborough, Lord Londesborougli, Mrs. James Bateman, Miss Bateman, Standishii, and Azurea grandiflora, and when the seed was ripe, sowed it in the autumn. None of it vegetated till this spring, for the seed is very hard, and requires time to vegetate, even when in a slight b6ttom-heat ; but the young plants have made wonderful progress this summer, and a few are now showing a bloom on them. It may be said that as plants of all the best varieties of Clematis can now be procured from nurserymen at a reasonable rate, there is no use in trying to raise seedlings of them. There is, however, an excitement in trying to raise some new sorts, of good properties, and in a large collection of seedlings this may be expected, as they gradually come into bloom. — William JLllery, Welbecl:. mm ACALYPHA WILKESIANA MARGINATA. OST lovers of ornamental plants are now familiar with the aspect of a broad-leaved plant, with foliage of a bright coppery tint, usually shown at exhibitions, under the name of Acahjpha tricolor , but more correctly called A. Willcesiana, The present subject is nearly related to that bb 2 I 284 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [DECEMBER, plant, but is nevertheless very distinct. The growth in either case is stontish and vigorous, and the foliage large and long-petioled. Here it is ovate-acuminate in outline, somewhat narrowed near the base, and beset on the margin with very distinct and rather distant saw-like teeth, u into each of which run out one or two branches from the marginal vein.” The leaves have the centre parts of an olive green, with a border variable in width, but averaging over an eighth of an inch, of a pretty rose-colour. Those who have seen it in the wild state speak of it as a very beautiful shrub, never even in its rankest growth losing its variegation. As a free-growing plant, it is likely to be of considerable value amongst those possessing ornamental foliage. Being a native of the Fiji Islands, it requires stove-culture. We are indebted to Mr. B. S. Williams for the use of the illustration. — T. Moore. ZONAL AND NOSEGAY PELARGONIUMS.— II. SHE scarlet and crimson sorts, most numerously represented at the exhibition which formed the subject of my previous communication on these flowers f(p. 259), served to bring out in a remarkable degree the very fine quality of the newer varieties raised by Dr. Denny and Mr. J. R. Pearson. These two celebrated growers have each taken his own line ; the former paying atten¬ tion to the improvement of the finely-formed Zonals ; the latter, the nosegay type. Dr. Denny, starting with form, substance, and size in the pip, has gone on to noble trusses, of large size and great beauty. On the other hand, Mr. Pearson may be said to have commenced with size of truss, and he has gone on improving the quality of pip till he has almost or quite rivalled Dr. Denny in the exquisite shape, substance, and rotundity of his flowers. And what has been so well done will no doubt serve as inducements for these accomplished florists each to make a new departure, and work out another series of important results. In giving my selection, commencing with the flowers having pale hues of scarlet or crimson, I commence with Mrs. J. George (George), bright orange- salmon scarlet, very fine pip, and noble truss ; Mrs. Wliiteley (Pearson), bright scarlet, very fine ; Mrs. Lacicroft (Pearson), bright pale red, fine and effective ; Mr. W. Brown (Pearson), pale bright rosy-crimson, very fine ; John Gibbons (Pearson), bright shaded scarlet, very large truss ; Idalia (Denny), scarlet, flushed purple and orange, finely formed pip and good truss ; Eros (Denny), very bright scarlet, showy white eye, extra fine ; Dell (Pearson), bright orange- scarlet, fine pip and noble truss ; Lancelot (Denny), rich orange-scarlet, very fine truss ; Harriet Helen (Pearson), very bright orange-scarlet, fine pip and large truss ; TEnore (Denny), soft glowing scarlet, pip and truss, extra fine ; Brassidas (Denny), large bright orange-scarlet, fine pip and truss ; Orion (Denny), bright orange-scarlet, flushed with purple, fine pip and noble truss ; Percy Cooper (Pearson), clear pale orange-scarlet, fine pip and truss ; Thomas Hood (Perkins), very bright, large rounded pip ; Corsair (Pearson), bright and striking ; John Fellowes (Pearson), cerise-scarlet, very fine indeed : Rievzi (Denny), fine bright scarlet, pip and truss striking ; Richard Ccenr de Lion (Denny), bright orange- crimson, fine and bold. Those having deeper shades of colour were more numerously represented, and 1875.] GARDEN GOSSIP. 285 my selection of tlie best varieties comprises : — J/rs. Huish (Pearson), shaded cerise-red, very fine truss ; Mrs. Vincent (Pearson), deep crimson, fine pip and large truss ; John Fellows (Pearson), very bright orange-crimson, immense truss ; Rev. F. Atkinson (Pearson), dark scarlet, very fine pip and wonderful truss; Scilathiel (Denny), bright orange-crimson, very fine pip and large bold truss ; Lavinia (Denny), clear bright orange-crimson, very fine form and large truss ; Aspasia (Denny), dull crimson, large truss; Oberon (Denny), shaded bright crimson, very fine pip and immense truss ; Portia (Denny), fine bright crimson, quality high ; Alonzo (Denny), orange-crimson, flushed with purple, fine pip and large bold truss ; Imogen (Denny), crimson, much flushed with purple, splendid pip and large truss, distinct and very fine ; Zuleika (Denny), bright pale orange crimson, flushed violet, great refinement of character ; JEneas (Denny), rich deep orange scarlet, very fine pip and noble truss, extra fine quality ; Colonel Ilolden (Pearson), deep crimson, tinted purple, very fine ; Minerva (Denny), deep bright orange-crimson, flushed with purple, fine pip and bold truss ; Douglas Pearson (Pearson), bright deep crimson, extra fine quality ; H. R. Clifton (Pearson), pur¬ ple orange-crimson, extra fine ; Diana (Denny), showy and striking ; Miss San¬ ders (Pearson), a very large hybrid nosegay, rosy crimson, flushed with purple, and noble truss ; Prince Bismarck (Burley), dark crimson, fine and effective ; Dr. Roch (Boucharlat), bright orange-red, distinct and striking ; Lord Macaulay (Denny), crimson, fine shape ; Salathiel (Denny), rich bright crimson, extra fine ; Globosa Major (Denny), dark bright crimson, a huge nosegay for decorative pur¬ poses ; Heartsease (De Waldie), a distinct and taking variety, colour purple- crimson, fine form, small truss ; W ellington (Denny), very rich and bright in colour ; The Shah (George), bright crimson, very large pip ; Cassandra (Denny), bright crimson, fine bold pip'; and Sir II. S. Stanhope (Pearson), very dark crimson, fine pip and truss. Such, then, are my selections of the various hues of colour of the best types of Zonal Pelargoniums. Some supplementary remarks which I had hoped to have added to these last must be reserved for want of space. — Bicijaed Dean, Ealing , W. GAKDEN GOSSIP. HE Pelargonium Society , the establishment and successful labours of which during its first year of existence we have already noticed, has just issued its Schedule for 1876, from which we find that Prizes are offered for com¬ petition on June 7 and 8, for 6 Show Pelargoniums; and on July 19 and 20, for 12 Zonal Pelargoniums and 4 Zonal Pelargoniums, of the “ Florists’ Class for 12 Zonal Pelargoniums of the “Decorative Class;” for 30 Zonal Pelargoniums and 18 Zonal Pelargo¬ niums, “ irrespective of class for 1 Zonal Pelargonium, “ irrespective of class,” to be shown for novelty of colour; for G Double-flowered Zonal Pelargoniums; for 1 Double-flowered Zonal Pelargonium, with white flowers ; for 1 Double-flowered Zonal Pelargonium, of any colour, except white ; for 3 Hybrid Ivy-leaved Pelargoniums ; for G Ornamental Cape Pelar¬ goniums ; and for 1 Hybrid Pelargonium, of distinct and ornamental character. The Prizes are open to competition amongst Members of the Society only. - 0UR gardens owe much to the labours of the successful hybridisers, amongst whom of late years Messrs. Veitch have taken the lead, especially amongst Orchids. M. Bause has also been most successful, and the Caladiums, Coleuses, Dieffenbachias, and other plants raised by him at Chiswick, should have secured him a medal of honour from the Royal Horticultural Society. M. Baus6 has again come to the front, with a batch of Hybrid Draeccnas , raised in the nursery of Mr. Wills, at Anerley, of 286 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ December, ■which the number is legion, and the variety is astonishing, there being amongst them some wonderfully beautiful novelties. They comprise varieties with broad, medium, and narrow leaves, bronzy and green, with crimson, rose, pink, violet, and white variegations, and with drooping, spreading, and erect habit — these features being blended in all sorts of combina¬ tions. _ The effect of a whole house full of these grand novelties was quite startling. - £The veteran pteridologist, Mr. John Smith, has just published his matured views on the Classification of Ferns , in a handy volume of some 429 pages, under the title of Historia Filicum (Macmillan), and illustrated by thirty Plates drawn by Fitch. Mr. Smith’s primary division is into circinate Ferns and Ferns not circinate, the former including nearly all known genera, the latter the three genera of Ophioytossacece. The first group is then broken up, as usual, into those with the ring of the spore-cases vertical (PolypodiaceceJ, or horizontal-central ( Gleicheniece , Hymenophyllecd), or horizontal-apical or incomplete ( Pchizcece , Osrnundacece), or wanting ( Marattiacecm ). Then comes in Mr. Smith’s special feature of classification; the Polypodiacea3 are divided -into Eremobrya , with “ fronds solitary, lateral, and articulate with the caudex and Desmobrya , with “ fronds terminal, solitary, fasciculate, adherent to the caudex while the Marattiaceso form the third division, Scaphobrya, with “fronds terminal, rising between the stipuliform or socket-like appendages, and articulate with the caudex.” This mode of division naturally breaks rip many of the old associations of species brought together by similarity of fructifica¬ tion, and appears to be, at least, open to as many and as strong objections as the use of any other single character. Under these three divisions there are ranged 220 genera, of which the characters are given, and the names of the species if a few, or those of a selection, where numerous. The work will be extromely useful to students of Ferns, from the structural observations it embodies. - @There is no lack of Books on British Ferns. Mr. Newman lias lately issued what he calls the Fifth, or People’s Edition of his History of British Ferns (Van Voorst), a small volume, of handy size for the pocket. The merits of Mr. Newman’s writings on Ferns are well known ; it, therefore, will suffice to say that this small book is a modern epitome of the larger one. It is reliable as to the information it gives, and that is no small praise. There is a vein of egotism throughout it which, to say the least, is amusing, as, for instance, in the following passage : — “ This final edition, like those which have preceded it, will doubtless raise up its host of imitators; to all such I most cordially ■wish success. But it is a still greater satisfaction to me to know, that by introducing this new study, I have afforded pleasure to thousands and pain to none ; wherever I go, there are Ferneries in the open garden, in the greenhouse, or the dwelling-house; and Newman’s Ferns, albeit sometimes under another name, has bocome a household book.” It is nevertheless, as we have already said, a good book, and we wish it success. - thoroughly useful book to young gardeners wbo venture on tbe higher branches of study is Baker s Elementary Lessons in Botanical Geography (Eeeve and Co.), which gives in little compass what could only otherwise be obtained at considerable expenditure of time and attention. Its object is well explained in the preface, where the author remarks that he fe’lt it was extremely desirable that gardeners and other learners in biology should be encouraged as much as possible to acquire compre¬ hensive and correct ideas of the laws and leading facts of plant- distribution. The matter originally appeared in a series of papers in the Gardeners’ Chronicle, and has since been reprinted, with some alterations. We strongly recommend it to the notice of students. - Some of the best of the Herbaceous Phloxes will be found among the following : — White Lady, the best of the whites in the decussata section ; Madame A. Dumesnil, white with purple eye ; Madame Maisonneuve, white with crimson eye, and somewhat flushed ; Mademoiselle Marie Saison, white with purple eye ; Coquette du Parc de Neuillv, white with bright purple eye ; Eugenie Immer, white with delicately- tinted purple eye ; Comtesse de Turenne, white with delicate purple eye, a very chaste- looking flower ; Coccinea, a bright but dark carmine-crimson ; Resplendent, carmine-scarlet ; Lothair, light salmony-scarlet with dark eye ; Madame Caillard, bright salmon with dark eye; Riviere, fine salmon-scarlet with dark eye ; Mons. Jigne, rosy salmon with dark eye; Mademoiselle Ilermine de Turenne, purple-crimson ; Madame Godfrey, bright purple; M. Guldenscliuch, rosy pink with dark eye ; Menotti, lilac with white eye, very distinct; and 1S7£. ] GARDEN GOSSIP. 287 Madame Durenne, lilac with broad dark purple centre. These are all fine, of good habit, and striking colours. - 2The finely variegated Fuchsia Sunray , which is believed by many to have originated as a sport, is, it appears, a seedling raised by Mr. G. Rudd, Under¬ cliff e, Bradford, who has also produced some other fine Fuchsias. It was ob¬ tained from the variegated Cloth of Gold, fertilised with pollen from a single Fuchsia having a white tube and sepals and a red corolla. Mr. Rudd observed a spot of white on a leaf of one of these seedlings, and finding it to be a promise of variegation, he, in the autumn, cut the plant back to this particular leaf, and the following spring it broke out into the beautiful variegated form it has never lost. - ^ newt Hyrid Tacsonia, which it is proposed topiame Tacsonia Andersoni , has been raised by Mr. Anderson, of the Gardens, Sowerby House, Hull, being a cross between T. Van Volxemii and T. insignis. The colour is intermediate between those of the two parents, more a scarlet than either, the size of the flowers being from 5 in. to 6 in. in diameter. Out of about forty plants raised from two seed-pods, all, with one exception, have the divided leaf of the male parent. The internal conformation of the hybrid flower is very curious. The calyx, corolla, and corona are all normal, but the stamens, instead of bearing anthers, are surrounded by petals. Beneath, the filaments, previous to their separation one from another, form a tube, from whose edge springs an additional corona, just as the corona springs from the flower- tube at the base of the petals in ordinary cases. We have here not only a very interesting malformation, but the germ of a double Tacsonia. - ®he fine hybrid Lilium Purity , a cross between L. auratum and speciosum, raised by Mr. Thomson, and of which little has been heard since it was exhibited before the Floral Committee in August, 1870, and received a First- class Certificate, has flowered vigorously this year at the Knap Hill Nursery, and proves to be a good acquisition. It has quite the habit and aspect of a vigorous large-flowered form of L. speciosum , having lanceolate leaves and large flowers, the segments of which are at first spreading, then reflexed, the ground-colour pure white to the very base, and spotted with rich carmine-crimson dots and papillae. The fragrance is intermediate between that of the twro parents. It is a distinct Lily, and a well-marked improvement on L. speciosum album. - iA paper on the Destruction of Chlorophyll by Light , by Dr. Askenasy, has recently been published in the Botanische Zeitung. He finds that the parts of fruits and plants most deeply coloured are those most freely exposed to light ; and that fruits of the same kinds if ripened in the shade remain green to the end. His ex¬ periments, so far, have not led to the discovery of anything positive with regard to the active agents in these effects, and their physiological importance. The facts mentioned by Hr. Askenasy have been well known to gardeners for years, and in cases wThere the value of fruit depends upon its appearance shading and exposure have often been resorted to. - (£)f the new Pea Dr. Maclean , Mr. Bailey of Shardeloes writes : — “It is a remarkably fine Pea of the Turner’s Prolific type, grows about o ft. high, is very productive, with pods which are large and well filled, and produced from the bottom to the top of the haulm. It is of excellent flavour, and is altogether a first-class Pea. - ©ne of the most interesting objects in the well-conducted kitchen- gai’dens at Thoresby Park, as we learn from the Gardener , is a Wall of Warrington Gooseberry-trees. They are planted some two or three feet asunder, against a north wall, and trained vertically, the branches being about 4 in. apart ; the wall is now almost entirely covered with them. Mr. Henderson states that this wall of Gooseberry- trees is of more service to him than all his other bushes put together, the crops being certain, regular, and conveniently preserved on the trees till late in the autumn. The branches , having a considerable vertical extension on a wall 12 ft. high, are not disposed to make gross lateral growth ; and the summer treatment consists in simply shortening back the breast- wood, which in winter is finally pruned to short spurs in the usual way. 288 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ December, 1865. - - &he new Pelargonium Beauty of Oxton is a splendid companion plant to that called Queen Victoria. The varieties of this crimped-flowered class, such as Queen Victoria, Captain Raikes, or Prince of Pelargoniums, are amongst the handsomest and most useful of the family; their petals are so numerous that they lap overreach other, and they are of such substance, and so much crimped, that they appear double. Queen Victoria is of a rich vermilion, the petals broadly margined with white. Beauty of Oxton is also margined with white, and beautifully fringed, but the upper petals are rich maroon darkly blotched, and the under ones dark crimson, shaded with maroon ; the flowers are particularly large and full. These two varieties may be strongly recommended for decorative purposes. — — ^t Mr. J. Fraser’s Nursery, Lea Bridge Road, we noted, during the past summer, some Verbenas adapted for Bedding ; they were German varieties, and seemed to have inherent vigour of constitution, such as our English varieties once had, but which many of them now lack — a fact which, perhaps, accounts for the neglect into which they have fallen. Some of the most distinct were : — Baron von Bookheim, bronzy scarlet ; Rudolph Brandt, purple, with white eye, somewhat recalling the fine olcl bedding plant of yore, Lantana Selloana ; Moritz Schulz, deep claret, with small white eye ; Baron von Apraxine, rich violet; Hofgartner Noak, rosy pink, pale scarlet eye; Baronin von Paussinger, rose with crimson eye ; Alemaine, deep rose pink with white eye ; Theodor Emmel, light vermilion, with white eye ; Paul Vas, deep scarlet with dark eye ; La Loire, maroon with white eye; and Gruss van Strassburg, orange-scarlet with large white eye. These may be recommended as well worth a trial. - - err Albert Bruchmuller, one of the most enterprising and perhaps most successful collectors that ever entered South America, was killed in OcaTia some time early in August last, by a French criminal, who had been a soldier in the French Army. A revolution had been going on in the United States of Colombia, and some parts of that country were in a state of anarchy. Mr. Bruchmiiller was a native of Magdeburg, in Prussia, and some few years ago entered the service of Messrs. Low and Co., of Clapton. As a plant collector he was eminently successful, sending home to the Messrs. Low, and subsequently to Mr. Bull, several fine new Orchids, and immense quantities of the best known sorts. His extensive consignments to Mr. Bull may be said to have done a great deal towards the great reduction in the price of Orchids which has taken place within the last few years. — m. Alexander Boreau died recently at Angers, at the age of 72. He was best known as the author of the useful Flore du Centre de la France , of which three editions have been published. He was one of the school of critical botanists. - fEL W. DE Schonefeld, who has filled with admirable ability and zeal the post of Secretary to the Societe Botanique de France since its founda¬ tion in 1854, died recently. The Society and botanists in general were under special obligations to this distinguished man for his services in reference to the publications of the Society. - - ®Illiam Plant, Esq., M.D., died at bis residence, Monkstown, on October 23. The name of Dr. Plant had been associated for more than half a century with the most successful cultivation of his three specialities — Auriculas, Carnations, and Tulips. As a grower of Auriculas, in particular, he had few, if any, equals, certainly no superior; and to see his Auricula-frames, and again, his marvellous Tulip- beds, in their flowering season, was a sight worth going a long way to see. Dr. Plant was, we believe, at his death the oldest member of the Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland, having been for more than forty-five years a member of its Council ; he had arrived at tho ripe age of 85 years. I N D E X . Aoalypha Wilkosiana (tricolor) marginata, (woodcut) 283. Adiantum (Capillus-Yeneris) Liid demannia- num, 233 ; A. prince, ps, 238 ; A. speciosum, (woodcut) 271. Aga pan thus Mooreanus, 216. Althaea frutex, (Avoodcut) 21. Amaranthus Henderi, 46. Amaryllis culture, hints on, 177. Amateur’s Guide, Suttons’ Miniature, 47. Anemone, double scarlet poppy, 163. Annuals for Spring-bedding, 196. Anthurium Scherzerianum, 23. Ants, Black, removal of, 240. Apple, French Paradise, (col. plate) 97 ; Lady Henniker, (col. plate) 61 ; Lane’s Prince Albert, (col plate) 233. Apples, frequent use of, 119; late-keeping, 139 ; ncAv, of 1874, 42. Aquarium, Liverpool, 24 ; Royal, at West¬ minster, 47, 262. Artocarpus Cannoni, (Avoodcut) 210. Asparagus, early forced, to obtain, 70. Asplenium forulaceum, 238. Auriculas, seasonable notes on, 38 ; notes on, 126, 165 ; Alpine, 180 ; sIioav, and Iioav they are sIioavu, 137. Azalea mollis and indica, crossing, 282. Bean, dwarf French, Canadian Wonder, 68. Bean, ScA’ille Early Longpod, 191. Beaucarneas, Avatering of, 263. Begonia, Emperor, (col. plate) 265 ; B. Model, (col. plate) 109. Begon'as, Schmidt’s ncAv race of, 239. Bertolonias, ncAv, 143. Birch, decorated with Jasminum and Loni- cera, 68. Blumenbachia coronata, (Avoodcuts) 136. Botanical Geography, Baker’s Elementary Lessons in, noticed, 286. Botany, Elements of, noticed, 24. Bouquet-making, 22. Bouvardias, Avintor-flowering, 45. Brahea filamentosa, 238. Broccoli, early winter, preserving, 70. Broom, the garden, and Iioav to use it, 212. Burbidge and Baker’s Narcissus, noticed, 140. Bush-trees, now style of planting, 262. Caiopiioka absintliifolia, 136 ; C. coronata, 136. Calanthes as Decorative Plants, 5. Calceolaria, Avintering the, 254. Camellia Mathotiana rosea, 118. Campanula Stnitliii, (col. plate) 209. Carnations, notes on, 222. Celery, Col. Clarke’s, 46. Cclosias as decorative and exhibition plants, (Avoodcut) 98. Cerasus caproniana ranunculiflora, 141 ; C. .Sieboldii rosco-plena, 144 ; C. Watererii, 144. Chamnorops excelsa, (Avoodcuts) 123 ; C* Griifitliii, (woodcut) 102. Clioirunthus Dillenianus, 188 ; C. Marsliallii, 187 ; C. ochroleucus, 187. Cheiranthus, the perennial, 187. Cherries, Gean, Early Lyons, (col. plate) 193 ; Ohio Beauty, (col. plate) 193 ; double- flowered, 144. Cherry-forcing, 1 . Chestnuts of 1873, preserved alive, 47. Chlorophyll, destruction of, by light, 237. Chrysanthemums, large-flowered, 23. Cinerarias, neAv, 104. Clematis, Jackman’s Exhibition of, at Regent’s Park, 142 ; raising from seed, 283 ; new double, Belle of Woking, 189 ; C. indivisa lobata, 102, 119; C. montana, 119; C. Willisoni, new double, 191. Clianthus magnificus, hardiness of, 147. Coal-ashes, beneficial effect of, on land, 68. Coditeum (Croton) appendiculatum, 117; C. Disraeli, 117, 238; C. Lord Cairns, 117; C. ovalifolium, (Avoodcut) 7; C. tortile, 117; C. variabile, 117. Conifers, Ornamental, Fraser’s Handy-book of, noticed, 262. Conservatories, Roof, 118. Cooling apparatus for liquids, 144. Coprinus comatus, 261. Correa Lawrenceana, 191. Cotoncaster frigida, 6 1. Crinum brachynema, 118. Crops, condition of the fruit, 215. Cucumber, disease of, (Avoodcut) 28. Cucumbers, smooth-skinned, 239. Culture, restrictive v. free, 193. Currants at Christmas, 186 ; budded on Ribes palmatum, 69. Cutler, E. R., testimonial to, 47. Cyanopliyllum marmoratum, 238. Cvdonia Maulei, (col. plate) 49. Gypripedium japonicum, (Avoodcut) 220. Datura Kniglitii, 236 ; D. suaveolens, 236. Daturas, shrubby, 236. Dendrobium Devonian um, culture of, 73. Desmodium penduliflorum, 23. Deutzias, seedling double, 190. Dieffenbachia brasiliensis, (Avoodcut) 273. Dracaena amabilis, 62 ; I). angustifolia, 238 ; D. Baptistii, (Avoodcut) 53 ; D. Candida, 118; D. Hendersoni, (woodcut) 53 ; D. im- perialis, 62 ; D. insignis, 118; D. regina, 62. Dracaonas, hybrid, Bausc’s, 285. Drying paper, NoAvman’s botanical, 47. Earth temperature, 120. Echeveria Peacockii, (col. plate) 121. Edging-plants, 262. Endive, mode of blanching, 191. Epipliyllum truncatum, display of, at Chats- Avorth, 70. f 200 INDEX. Erauthemum pulchelliun for winter-blooming, 248. Eucharis amazonica, 12, 67. Eulalia japonica, 237. Euphorbia falgons, alias jacquinne flora, 89, 159. Exhibitions : Alexandra Palace, International Potato, 2G2 ; Cologne International Horti¬ cultural, novelties, at, 237; Edinburgh International Fruit and Flower, 261 ; Here¬ ford and Perth Fungus, 261; Manchester Botanical and Horticultural Society’s Whit¬ sun, 143; May and June, 167; Jackman’s Clematis, at Royal Botanic Society, 142 ; July Floral, 188; Midland Counties’ Grand Horticultural, 189 ; National Auricula Society’s, 143 ; National Carnation and Picotee Society’s, 215, 265; Nottingham and Midland Counties’ Grand Rose, 189 ; Paul’s (W.), Pot Rose, at Royal Botanic Society, 142 ; Royal National Tulip Society’s, 190; Special, for 1875, 45. Ferns, Lowe’s New British, awards to, 189 ; raising from spores, 143, 167. Ferns, Newman’s History of British, noticed, 286 ; Smith’s Classification of, noticed, 286. Festucas as edging-plants, 262. Fig, Negro Largo, 19. Floricultural Notes, 104. Florists’ Flowers, seasonable notes on, 38 ; per¬ centage of improved novelties amongst, 118. Flowers for table decoration, 226. Flower-shows, annual, for the Benefit of Public Institutions in Birmingham, 46. French Bean, Canadian Wonder, 68. Fruits as a substitute for high-priced meat, 30 ; which shall we grow — sweet or acid ? 163 ; Orchard-house, improvement in flavour of, 264 ; Mr. Rivers’ new, 248 ; new, of 1874, 42. Fruits, Wall, culture of: Chap, i., Introductory, 25 ; Chap, ii., Soil, 50 ; Chap, iii., Roots, 121 ; Chap, iv., the Peach and Nectarine, 1 69 ; Chap, v., the Peach and Nectarine, 274. Fruit Crops, condition of the, 215. Fruit-culture v. Cremation, 55, 88. Fruit Manual, Hogg’s, noticed, 125. Fruit-trees for North Walls, 64, 269. Fruit-trees in blossom, protection of, 166. Fruit-trees, transplanting, 19S. Fruit-tree training, 17, 61. Fuchsia corymbiflora, 80 ; F. Riccartoni, 68 ; F. Sunray (variegated), origin of, 287. Fuchsias, new, (woodcuts) 129. Fungus of the Potato-disease, (woodcuts) 171. Fungus Shows at Perth and at Hereford, 261. Garden, public, at Liverpool, 24. Garden, Royal, Summer and Winter, at West¬ minster, 47, 262. Garden, Winter, in the open air, 86. Garden Gossip, 22, 45, 68. 95, 117, 142, 167, 188, 215, 237, 261, 285. Garden Work: January, 9; Fobruarv, 32; if f * v 7 / M arch, 56; April, 81; May, 105; June, 130; July, 153; August, 182; September, 205 ; October, 229 ; November, 249 ; De¬ cember, 275. Gardens, economy of labour in, 63, 114. Gardeners’ Year-Book and Almanac for 1875, noticed, 24. Gardenias, Ladd’s grove of, 119. Gardening and the Royal Horticultural Society, 241, 279. Genista virgata, (col. plate) 169. Geonoma gracilis, 117 ; G. Soemanni, 23. Geranium and Pelargonium, supposed cross between, 23. Germination, hastening, by camphor, 215. Glass, toughened, 70. Glass-houses, new range of, in Glasgow Botanic Garden, 24. Glazing curvilinear roofs, Rendle’s system of, 68. , Gleiclienia, notes on the, 219. Gooseberries, budded on Ribes pahnatum, 68 ; at Christmas, 186. Gooseberry-grub, Toads and the, 178. Gooseberry-trees, wall of Warrington, at Tlioresby, 287. Grapes, Edinburgh Champion, clusters of, (woodcuts) 244 ; Venn’s Black Muscat, 22. Grapes, Hardy, ripening in 1874, 54 ; new, of 1874, 43; preserving after cutting, 145; scalding of, 270 ; unpopular by adverse treatment, 71. Gravel Walks, how to clean, with salt, 15. Guano, Penwian, 70. Hautbois, forcing the, 209. Heath-soil, 263. Helianthus globosus fistulosus, (woodcut) 69. Heliotrope, M. Sement, 239 ; H. Surpasse Guascoi, 239. Hellebores, new hybrid, (woodcut) 159. Hibiscus Syria mis, (woodcut) 21. Historic. Filicum, Smith’s, noticed, 286. Hogg’s Fruit Manual, noticed, 125. Hollyhocks, Chater’s new, 13. Horseradish, cultivation of, 191. Hyacinth, Etna, 117. Hyacinths, new, 105. Hyacinth-spikes, double or fasciated, 118, 144. Hybridising Plants, 22. Im Axorii y lll’m Aitoni, new variegated variety of, 238. J uniperus chincnsis aurea, 232. Kitchen - gardening, High - class, Earley's, noticed, 192. Labels, wooden, receipt for preserving, 120. Labour, economy of, in gardens, 63, 114. Laburnum as a forcing-plant, 190. Lagerstromia indica, to flower, 146. Lantanas as bedding-plants, 123. Lapageria rosea, hardiness of, 68. Leaves, absorbing power of, 24; used for garnishing, 69. » INDEX. 291 Leeks, notes on, 02, 271. Libonia penrliosiensis, 168. Lilies, Garden : Chap, viii., Liliuni canadense and its varieties, 157; Chap, ix , Liliuni Humboldtii, and L. pardalinum, and their varieties, 217. Lilies, Japanese hybrid, 215. Liliuni, monograph of, Elwes’s, 46. Liliuni auratum at Buckley Hall, 262 ; L. au- ratum, Mr. McIntosh’s specimens of, 240 ; L. avenaceum, 190, 263 ; L. callosum, 190 ; L. canadense, (woodcut) 157; L. c. rubro- flavum, (col. plate) 157 ; L. c. rubrum, (col. plate) 157 ; L. cordifolium, 238 ; L. Eliza¬ beths?, 215; L. Hansoni, 263; L. Hum- bold ti;, (col. plate) 217; L. japonicum = Krameri, 240 ; L. medeoloides, 189 ; L. nepalense, 189; L. oxypetalum, 189; L. pardalinum, (col. plate) 218 ; L. p. californi- cuoa, (col. plate) 218; L. Parkmanni, 215, 263 ; L. Purity, 287. Liparis elegantissima, 238. Liquids, cooling apparatus for, 144. Litliospermum prostratum, 171. Loasa coronata, 136. Lupinus arboreus as a sea-side shrub, 70. Maranta Massangeana, 238. Martinezia erosa, 117. Melon, Suttons’ new pear-shaped, (woodcut) 44 Melons, new, of 1874, 43 ; soil for, 196. Mildew, destruction of, by sulphur, 24. Mimulus, fine strain of maculosus type, 96. Mistleto parasitic on itself, 69. Musa Champa, 43. Mushrooms, growing, in saw-dust, 270. Narcissus ; its history and culture, Burbidge’s, noticed, 140. Nectarine, Welbeck Seedling, (col. plate) 13. Nectarines, culture of, 169, 274; early, 177. Nepenthes intermedia, (woodcut) 257. Newman’s History of British Ferns, noticed, 286. Novelties, improved, amongst Florists’ flowers, 118; at Cologne International Horticultural Exhibition, 237 ; at Royal Horticultural Society, 117. Oak, Lucombe, 69. Oaks, new Japanese evergreen, (woodcuts) 89, (woodcuts) 199. Obituary : Appleby, Thomas, 264 ; Ayres, William Port, 48 ; Bewlev, Thomas, 120 ; Boreau, Alexander, 288 ; Bragg, W. R., 72 ; Brown, George, 24 ; Bruclnnuller, Albert, , 288 ; Buckley, Wilbraliam, 48 ; Burnett, Thomas, 72; Courtois - Gerard, M., 48; Cullum, Lady, 72 ; Edward, George, 192 ; Fielder, Benjamin, 72 ; Gibson, John, 48 ; Ginger, W. S., 264; Gray, Dr. J. E., 1^0; Hanbury, Daniel, 120 , Hextall, J. D., 120 ; Lancashire, Robert, 120 ; Leroy, Andrd, 216 ; Nash, Daniel, 24 ; Plant, Dr. William, 288 ; Rollisson, William, 192 ; Rucker, Sigismund, 264 ; Schonofeld, W. de, 238 ; Standish, John, 216; Stelzner, Adolphe, 240; Tait, Alex¬ ander, 24; Taylor, Thomas, 216; Thuret, Gustave Adolphe, 192 ; Turnbull, Archi¬ bald, 48 ; Von Jacobi, General, 48 ; Weaver, Thomas, 72 ; Willison, William, 264. Onion, Queen, 168. Orchard-trees, trenching the ground for, 254. Orchids, cool, watering, 18. Pansies, bedding, at Chiswick, 150. Paste for fixing labels on glass, wood, or paper, 23. Pavonia Wiotii, 238. Pea, Beck’s Gem or Tom Thumb, 7 ; Dr. Maclean, 287 ; Supplanter, (woodcut) 45. Peas, early, 6 ; new, 37. Peach, Condor, (col. plate) 133 ; Dr. Hogg, (col. plate) 185 ; Desse Tardive as a late, 18. Peaches, early, 177. Peach, culture of, 169, 274. Peach and Nectarine blossoms, premature di'opping of, 74. Peach-borders, covering, 152. Peach-trees, standard, in the open ground, 258. Pear, Groom’s Princess Royal, alias Matthews’ Eliza, (woodcut) 77 ; Louise Bonne d’ A ranches Panacheo, (col. plate) 281 ; Lucy Grieve, (col. plate) 85 ; Souvenir du Congres, (col. plate) 37. Pears, Chaumontel and other, at Floors, 244 ; influence cf soils on, 162 ; late, 36, 79, 158 ; new, of 1874, 42; for July till May, 216; for the North of Scotland, 280. Peat-soil, 263. Pelargonium, Beauty of Oxton, 288 ; P. Crown Prince, (col. plate) 25 ; P. Constance, (col. plate) 25 ; P. pseudo-zonale, 68 ; P. Rienzi, (woodcut) 116; P. Buchner, (double) 238; P. Sylpliide, (double) 238. Pelargonium, fancy, origin of the, 239. Pelargoniums, bedding, 238 ; M. Jean Sisley’s new double, 263 ; select zonal and nosegav, 259, 284. Pelargonium and Geranium, supposed cross between, 23. Pentagonia macrophvlla, 238. Pentstemon liumilis, (col. plate) 241. Pentstemons, for mixed borders, 158. Pcronospora infestans, (woodcuts) 171. Phloxes, herbaceous, the best, 286. Pliormium tenax Colensoi, flowering of, 191. Phylloxera, plan for destroying, 47. Picoa magnifica, coning for the first time at Knap Hill, 216. Picotees, notes on, 40, 222. Pinetum, Gordon’s, 2nd edition, noticed, 134. Plants, edging, 262 ; sickly pot, cure for, 239. Platanus orientalis Rosentlialii, 71. Pleroma macranthum and its allies, 3. Plum, Prince Englebert, 240 ; Prince of Wales, (col. plate) 253 ; Sultan, (col. plate) 145. Plums for a north wall, 64, 269. Polyanthuses, 281 ; gold-laced and otlior, 93. 292 INDEX. Polygonatam multi florum, 14-1. Pommicr do Paradis, (col. plate) 97. Portulacas, how to grow, 141. Potatos in Algeria, injured by larva), 47. Potato-disease, fungus of the, (woodcuts) 171. Pothos Endresii, 237. Pot-plants, sickly, cure for, 239. Primroses, new, 115. Primula japonica, raising of, from seed, 163 ; P. pulcliorrima, 113. Prize, Empress’, award of, to Messrs. Jas. Vcitch and Sons, 239. Protectors, Paper, for early crops, 71. Pruning, close, effect of, 71. Prunus tomentosa, 144. Pyramid Trees, new style of planting, 262. Pyrus Maulei, (col. plate) 49. Quercus acuta albo-nervis, (woodcut) 91 ; Q. angustifolia, (woodcut) 92 ; Q. bambusifolia, (woodcut) 200 ; Q. Burgerii, (woodcut) 202 ; Q. Cerris subperennis, 69 ; Q. cuspidata, varieties of, (woodcuts) 92 ; Q. gilva, (woodcut) 91 ; Q. glauca, varieties of, (woodcut) 89, 90, 91 ; Q. salicifolia, (wood- cut) 199 ; Q. sclerophylla, (woodcut) 202 ; Q. setifera, (woodcuts) 199. Ranunculus Ficaria calthifolius, 68. Raspberry, Northumberland Fillbaslcet, 240. Reference Catalogue, Country Gentleman’s, to the best modern books, 144. Renanthera coccinea, at Chatsworth, 71. Rotinosporas, Golden, 258. Rhododendron (standard), Scipio, 190. Rose (II. P.) St. George, (col. plate) 1 ; R. (II. P.) Duchess of Edinburgh, 96 ; R. (tea) Catherine Marmot, (col. plate) 73 ; R. Macartney, for walls, Ac., 66. Roses, new, of 1873 and 1874, 104; new, of 1874 and 1875, 227 : Laxton’s new English seedling, 264; new Tea-scented, 73; Pot, Wm. Paul’s Exhibition of, at Regent’s Park, 142. Rose-buds, button-hole, foliago for, 119. Rose-liedges, 247. Rottlera barbata, 237. Sarracenia purpurea, outdoors, at Glasnovin, 68 ; S. Stevensii, 118. Saxifraga ciliata, 95 ; S. umbrosa, a good shade-plant, 239. Schizostylis coccinea, 27. Scion, influence of, on stock, 73. Scutellaria Mociniana, 210. Selaginella textura, 238. Senecio, double purple, 190. Shade of trees, Saxifraga umbrosa for planting under, 239. Societies: Manchester Botanical and Horti¬ cultural Whitsun Exhibition, 143 ; National Auricula, annual exhibition, 143 ; National Carnation and Picotee, annual exhibition, 215; criticism of exhibition of, 2(55; Pelar¬ gonium, annual meeting of, 215; issue of schedule for 1 876, 285 ; show of, 1 89 ; Royal Caledonian Horticultural, International Fruit and Flower Show at Edinburgh, 261 ; Royal National Tulip, annual exhibition, 190; Royal Horticultural, July exhibition, 188 ; meetings of, 95 ; novelties produced at, 1 1 7. Society, Royal Horticultural, and Gardening, 241, 279. Soil, Heath, or Peat, 263; influence of, on Pears, 162; for Melons, 196. Solanum liumile, 28. Spatliiphyllum Wallisii, 118. Spiraea pfflmata, 144, 168. Spiraeas, hybrid, 190. Spring-bedding, annuals for, 196. Stevias, cultural notes on, 2 S3. Stocks, doublenoss of flowers in, 238. Storm of December, 1874, effects of, 43. Strawberry, Hautbois, forcing the, 209. Sulphur for destruction of mildew, 24. Sweet William, auricula-eyed, (woodcut) 40. Table Decoration, flowers for, 226. Tacsonia (hybrid) Andorsoui, 287. Tillandsia musaica, (woodcut) 15. Toads and the Gooseberry-grub, 178. Tomato, culture of the, 4 ; early, 220. Transplantation, effect of, in averting damage by frost, 69. Tulips, gossip about, 202; seasonable notes on, 40. .Verbenas adapted for bedding, 288. Vine without roots, tenacity of life in, 134. Vines, the Lambton Castle, 100. Vines and Vine-culture: Chap, vii., Dis¬ budding and stopping the shoots, (woodcuts) 110; Chap, viii., Thitfning . the Fruit, (woodcuts) 147. Vine-culture, peculiarities of, 19, 65. Vine-shoots, tying down, 128. Vino Sport, 4, 47. Vinoyard, Garston, sale of, 119. Violets, tree, 197. Vriesia musaica, (woodcut) 15 ; V. regina, 71 ; V. splendens, 30. Wellington a gigantea aurea, 118; W. gigantea pendula, 69. Wistaria sinensis, 86. Yews, Irish, at Ingestrie Hall, 47. Yucca fllamentosa angustifolia variegata, 237. , ' I i«S . _ ' ' : . HHSK3 MMW. - - * . I M