HARVARD UNIVERSITY LI B R A. Ui Y OF THE GRAY HERBARIUM Received S I I I r » ..fT i THE i[l0nst mh A PICTORIAL MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF FLOWERS, FRUITS, AND GENERAL HORTICULTURE. CONDUCTED BY THOMAS MOOKE, F.L.S., F.R.H.S., c^c., eURATOIt OF THE CHELSEA BOTANIC GARDEN; EDITOR OF “THOMPSON’S GARDENER’S ASSISTANT;” CO EDITOR OF “ THE GARDENERS’ CHRONICLE ” AND OF THE “ TREASURY OF BOTANY ;” AUTHOR OF “THE FERNS OF GREAT BRITAIN AND IRELAND NATURE-PRINTED,” “INDEX FILIOUM,” “THE HANDBOOK OF BRITISH FERNS,” ETC 1877. LONDON; rUBLISIIED FOR THE PROPRIETORS BY MESSRS. KENT & CO., 23 PATERNOSTER ROAV, E.C. MDCCCLXXVII. GrTjv 'He^h^rium Harvard Univcrsiijf 5.(»Chx^ • i ^ ^ LIST OF COLOURED FIGURES \ Apple, White Winter Calville... • Begonia Davisii*^ . Boronia elatior^ ... ‘ Camellia Madame Cachet /CORNUS MASCULA AUREA ELEGANTISSIMA ... * Hyacinth Queen of Lilacs » Mimulus (double-flowered) Crown Prince' 5? Galatea ... Spotted Gem „ (scarlet) Fire-King -Nectarine, Lord Napier^.. t Odontoglossum triumphans*^ i Onion, Trebon^ ... •^Orange, Tangierine^ • Peach, Belle Imperiale' y 9 l-i « Dymond Early Alfred^ MagdalaK^.. Premier ... ^ Pear, Amiral Ckcile^ l- ' Beurre de Jonghe... Doyenne du Comice The Peach'^... Willison’s Queen Victoria^ ✓ Pelargonium, Princess of Wales Primula sinensis Eva Fish • Bhododendron, Princess of Wales I Bose, Magna Charta*^ Tulipa Eichleri^ ... u Facing page Hageri 1/ io 85 145 121 101) 241 253 253 253 253 229 217 37 205 25 185 277 277 97 01 01 133 157 13 193 205 3 49 109 101) LIST OF WOODCUTS ♦ Abutilon rosEeflorum . 211 Adiautum C apillus- V eneris comubiense 105 Adiantum princeps Apple, Striped Beefing Aralia filicifolia Araucaria Goldieana ... Auricula disease Begonia kallista 243, 244 ... 79 ... 126 ... 39 ... 134 ... 221 Bouvardia Humboldtii corymbiflora . . . 149 Bug, Mealy . . 267 Cordon Training of Wall Fruit Trees 42 Crotou Lord Cairns ... ... ... 57 Croton Queen Victoria... ... ... 258 Croton trilobus ... ... ... ... 56 Curmeria Wallisii ... ... ... 233 Cycas Normanbyana ... ... ... 35 Uactylopius adonidum... ... ... 267 UracEena Goldieana ... ... ... 247 CupEitorium Berlandieri ... ... 27 Eupatorium ligustrinum ... ... 27 Fruit Trees, Cordon Training of ... 42 Fruit Trees, wires for training on walls 24 Fungus causing Pcacli Blister ... 175 Grapes, Mildew of ... ... ... 51 Hymenanthera crassiflora ... 201, 202 Ecmiaria DtdgaimsiaD ... ... ... 197 Mealy Bug . ... 267 Mildew of Grapes (Oidium Tuckeri), with conidia germinating ... 51 Nephrolepis davallioides ftircans ... 19 Oidium Tuckeri .. . ... 51 Peach Blister, and its accompanying Fungus 175 Pears, New Ornamental Japanese 100, 101 Pheenix rupicola ... 165 Phylloxera vastatrix, galls of, on Vine- leaf ... ... .;. 270 Phylloxera vastatrix, various states of root-ferm and leaf-form of . . . 271 Bed Spider ... 266 Sarracenia psittacina, leaves of ... 254 Selaginella japonica ... 137, 138 Spider, Bed ... 266 Tetranychus telarius ... 266 Thrips minutissima • * • 266 Trama auriculae ... 134 Trellis, West’s Patent Adjustable ... 71 Vine-leaf infested with Phylloxera ... 270 Vines, Adventitious or Air Boots of... 7 Vines, Mildew on Young Leaves Fruit of and 51 West’s Patent Adjustable Trellis ... 71 Wires forTraining Fruit-trees on Walls 24 Zamia crassifolia 51 I Hhododcridron Princess of W'ales. W.H.Fitcli del • * ■ THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. RHODODENDRON PRINCESS OF WALES. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. Q liave already figured several of the beautiful hybrid forms of warm green- house Rhododendrons which have been bred from E. jasminijlorum^ by the W Messrs. Veitch and Sons, of Chelsea. The original cross yielded the well- known useful decorative plants Princess Royal, Princess Helena, Princess Alexandra, &c. ; and as the result of a subsequent cross, there has been obtained through these a race with larger flowers, and having all the other good qualities of the first hybrids. The variety we now figure, Ehododendroii Princess .ofWciles^ is one of this second race of hybrids, and one of the most beautiful of them all, the colour being a peculiarly soft but brilliant tint of rose-pink, which is set off by contrast with the pure white of the throat and tube. The foliage is similar to that of the other hybrids of like origin. This variety has been certificated by the Royal Horticultural Society and also by the Royal Botanic Society, and we are sure that those who grow it will be as charmed with the flowers themselves, as they must be by Mr. Fitch’s attractive picture of them. As decorative plants these cross-bred Rhododendrons are a decided acquisition, since in the genial atmosphere of a warm greenhouse they go on growing and flowering indefinitely. — T. Moore. NEW TUBEROUS-ROOTED BEGONIAS. W. E. GUMBLETON, of Belgrove, Queenstown, has communicated to the gardening journals the result of his careful study of several of the new Begonias of 1876, from which it appears that he would place Gloire de Nancy at the head of all the double-flowered varieties. This is really a magnificent plant, with flowers of a beautiful deep carmine-colour, of an upright and branching habit of growth, and exceedingly free-flowering ; it has the additional great merit of having nearly all its blossoms male, and there¬ fore double ; altogether he thinks it is by far the finest variety that has yet appeared. Its raiser was M. Lemoine. Balsamincejiora is another exceedingly beautiful and full double-flowered variety, with rather irregularly developed outer or guard- petals ; it has light green foliage, and apparently a compact and low habit of growth ; the blossoms are of a very pleasing shade of light red, and are produced in the usual proportion of one double male between a couple of females, which are invariably single. 3rd series. — X. B 2 4 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST [ January, The finest and most brilliantly coloured of M. Lemoine’s singles is Orijiamme, which produces large and perfectly formed flowers, of a fine deep carmine-colour and great substance ; it is of an upright habit of growth, with dark green hairy foliage, and is very free-flowering, but it is not easy to get cuttings from it. Diaiaant has fine large blooms of a deep rose-colour outside and rosy-blush inside, very freely produced ; its habit of growth is low and tufty, with large, bold, deep green foliage, slightly veined with white. It is altogether a most distinct and beautiful variety, of quite a new shade of colour in these plants. Madame Oscar Lamarche^ one of M. Van Houtte’s, is an exceedingly fine large-flowered variety, of perfect form and deep glowing carmine-colour, one of the very best and most free-blooming of all. Charles Raes^ also sent out by M. Van Houtte,is of upright habit of growth, producing large blooms of a fine deep rose-colour, very free- blooming, and a lovely variety. These have all been grown in the open air at Queenstown. As summer-flowering greenhouse plants, and also as summer flower-garden plants, these new forms of Begonia promise to become real acquisitions. — T. Moore. ON CHANGES EFFECTED BY GKAFTING. N a late issue of the Florist (1876, 255), Mr. Wighton made some remarks respecting grafting, which the light of modern experiences seems destined to modify, even if the statements of Bradley, who wrote long ago, and the late Thomas Andrew Knight’s remarks on the variations of grafted Apples, in the second volume of the Horticultural IVansactions^weie not sufiSciently conclusive as to the operation of grafting being nearly as likely to change a variety, as to insure its permanence in the form of a young tree on another stock. Mr. Meehan has just published the results of some experiments undertaken by him in which the grafts of Ehode Island Greening Apple and those of a Bed Astrachan were split down the middle and joined together tally-fashion, these being then grafted on stocks in the ordinary way. Twelve of these tally-scions, each formed of the tw^o halves of wood of the before-mentioned varieties, were so worked, and three (25 per cent.) grew. One of the survivors has already fruited, and differs from either of the parent trees which supplied the scions, both in flower and fruit. Many ancient writers have asserted that such a practice had been successful in producing new sorts of fruit, but we had all got into a sceptical state respect¬ ing the truth of their remarks, this being in a measure owdng to our not knowing rightly the plants to which their names refer, and partly because their statements were unproved by experiment. We now know that variation can be infused into green-leaved stocks of many plants by grafting them with variegated scions, such having been the case with the Laburnum, Spanish Ohesnut, Mountain Ash, Pelargonium, Holly, Passion-flower, Jasmine, Abutilon, and many other plants. This ought to be amply sufficient to prove that the returning leaf-elaborated sap is not confined to the wood of the scion the leaves of which have purified it. I 1S77, ] VINES AND VINE-CULTURE. - CHAPTER XI. 5 have seen many cases of fruits and flowers having become changed by grafting, and our gardening periodicals teem with records (from many separate observers) bearing out the fact that varieties of fruit-trees, but especially Apples, Pears, Grapes, and Oranges, are changed by grafting, and that not merely in quantity of produce, but in size, shape, colour, time of ripening, and flavour. We all know how Muscat Ham¬ burg is improved when worked on a Black Hamburg stock, while Mr. David Thomson, Mr. Jack, of Battle Abbey, and many other cultivators, have given us evidence of the changes for the better effected by grafting other varieties. It is said — but I do not yet know how truly — that Mr. Maule has obtained tubers from plants of the common Sun-flower, this result having been brought about by grafting the Jerusalem Artichoke on that plant as a stock. If this statement proves to be true, it is even more remarkable than the same results obtained by the same experimenter in grafting potato-haulm on Solanum Dulcamara as a stock, about which the only doubt is as to whether the last-named plant does not sometimes produce tubers, or the semblance of tubers, on its fibrous or woody roots, when punctured or accidentally injured in some particular way. Mr. Darwin mentions in his Animals and &;c. , that parti-coloured tubers of the Potato have been obtained by grafting, z.e., inarching the haulm merely of red and white varieties together. Again, there is the famous Cytisiis Adami. But really, the evidence that grafting does sometimes give rise to varia¬ tions, in a manner analagous to hybridism, is now so patent, that little more need be said on the subject, which in all its bearings is most w'onderful. I do not wish to throw any doubt on Mr. Wighton’s experiments, the results of which I feel sure are exactly such as he describes them, but as his remarks generally point to the conclusion that grafted plants always keep true to their kind, while, in many, very many cases, the opposite is known to be the case, I feel sure he will excuse my stating my belief on the point, my only apology for which must be a desire to induce other observers to come forward with the results of their experience, for the benefit of all the readers of the Florist and Pomologist. — F. W. Burbidge. VINES AND VINE-CULTUKE. Chapter XI. — Diseases and Injuries, and their Eemedies {continued), HANKING. — Of all the perplexing maladies that affect grapes, this is the worst ; other agencies may destroy a crop, or even the plants, much more speedily and completely, but there is no ill pertaining to vines the true causes of which are so difficult to estimate and to grapple with as this. The term “ Shanking ” is applied to denote the drying or withering-up of the stalks of the bunches and berries of Grapes. Sometimes it is only a berry or two that ‘‘ shanks at other times it is the whole bunch, and in extreme cases it may be the entire crop. The period when shanking commences is just as the berries begin to change colour, or to ripen, and it continues more or less in action until they are ripe. The berries that thus shank or lose the vitality of their stalks 6 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ January, never colour or ripen, but they become intensely sour, and they soon decay and require to be cut out. In many cases, all that the eye can detect is a minute black speck, or a ring round the stem or stalk of the berry. In other cases, the whole stem is quite blackened. It may be noted that shanking is far more prevalent amongst late grapes than amongst early forced ones ; and again, that it is but seldom seen amongst out-door grapes ; while some varieties — those of the Frontignan class, to wit — are far more subject to shanking than others, such as the Eoyal Muscadine. As to the causes of “ shanking,” many and varied opinions have been given. It is not so much, we believe, the result of any one special cause, as of a variety of concurrent causes. In a broad or general sense, shanking seems to be the result of some overstrain, some bad condition or injury, to the feeding or respira¬ tory organs of the vine. Either the foliage has been in some way injured, or prevented from performing its proper functions ; or the roots have got into bad condition, and cannot perform theirs ; or, it may be, a combination of both these causes may exist. As to the immediate or leading causes of shanking, we shall briefly call attention to some of the principal : — 1. Overcropping. — The crop of fruit must be regulated according to the strength of the plant, and this may nearly be estimated by the amount of properly developed leaves ; so that an over-crop of fruit is just tantamount to a scarcity of leaves, an overstraining of the power of the plant, and the result is shanking to a very serious extent. 2. The destruction of the foliage by red-spider, burning, or other causes, which, again, is equivalent to a scarcity of leaves. 3. A stripping-off a great quantity of fully developed leaves at one time, as is frequently done by those who neglect timely stopping, which interference with the foliage affects in a corresponding degree the action of the roots, and so on. 4. The roots getting into a cold subsoil, or the border becoming sour and soddened, whereby the young spongioles of the roots are destroyed. 5. Borders composed of too rich materials, containing too much organic matter, in consequence of which the vines may grow with great luxuriance, but seldom ripen the wood well. The roots formed, although plentiful, are very soft and spongy ; they do not acquire firmness, but rot and decay during the winter season, and consequently the next season a fresh supply of rootlets has to be pro¬ duced ; then, when the strain upon the energies of the vine by the advancing fruit crop takes place, the roots are not in a proper condition to meet it, and as a result shanking begins. This late production of roots, their decay in winter, and the subsequent shanking, may go on year after year. C). Excessive dryness at the roots, such as to cause injury to these organs. If the border is allowed to get dry whilst the vines are in full growth, and is then deluged with water, the young roots will as a consequence be certainly destroyed. These, then, are several of the causes that directly or indirectly lead to shank- 1877. ] VINES AND VINE-CULTURE. - CHAPTER XI. 7 ing, acting cither singly or in combination ; yet when a case of shanking appears, it may be very difficult to trace it to its true origin, or to apply a remedy. Many of the above-named causes may be avoided by good management, as indeed they all should ; but where the roots are at fault, either through being in a too rich or a too wet sour border, the only remedy that can be adopted is to take them up carefully ; remake the border thoroughly, taking care, if in a low or damp locality, to use a greater proportion of porous materials than before, so as to secure good drainage ; and replant them. Adventitious^ or Air-Boots. — These are so called from their being pro¬ duced on the stem of the vine, and their being sus¬ pended in the air like so many threads, as repre¬ sented by the accompany¬ ing figure. They are of the same character as the true roots, and only re¬ quire to be brought into contact with the soil to be¬ come such. These air-roots are sometimes produced in great profusion from every part of the stem, frequently attaining a foot or more in length, and so give the vine a strange appearance. There is no particular harm in them per se, but their presence betokens a want of proper action on the part of the true roots run¬ ning naturally in the soil. They are a sign of bad health, and are frequently the precur¬ sors of shanking. They give evidence that the ' adventitious roots op Vines. proper roots are not in a condition to supply the great demands of a large expanse of foliage, &c., and that, aided by a warm, moist atmosphere within the house. Nature is trying to supply this want. Close warmth and moisture will induce the formation of such roots from vine-stems at any time. But if the true roots in a border are in a perfectly congenial condition, no air gr adventitious roots will bo produced in any ordinarily well- 8 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ January, managed YinGr3\ They are, in short, the result mainly of the roots being in a cold, wet border. To prevent their formation, or to recover vines subject to this evil, the amelioration of the borders must be seen to. Some varieties of vines, such as those of the Frontignan class, being of a more tender constitution, are more subject to the formation of air-roots than others. When they are produced, they need not be cut off, except for appearance’ sake, for they will wither up and die as the wood ripens. — A. F. Barron, Chlsivick. FIG NEGRO LARGO. |F all the Figs which grow in the garden, this is, to my mind, the most de" sirable, being fruitful to a degree, and the flavour being the finest I ever tasted. My experience of its good qualities is as grown under glass, and I ^ do verily believe it will yield fruit continuously for eight months out of the twelve. In the early part of December*, the flavour was as good as it was in June. No class of fruit-trees are more improved by root-pruning than the Fig ; they are thus kept within bounds, and made to produce fruit at an earlier period, while those on the open wall should have a double net over them during April and May, to guard them from the frost. — J. Bust, Bridge Castle. NERTERA DEPRESSA FOR CARPET BEDDING. C^THE Nertera is certainly a very effective little plant, and deserves a place in every establishment where there are any pretensions to carpet bedding. fHere, the first week in October the plants are taken from the beds, good-sized plants being divided into three, each piece neatly rounded, and then potted in a light compost, having a small portion of peat and sand mixed with it ; 3-in. pots well crocked are used. The pots are then plunged in coal-ashes in a cold frame facing the south, in an open space not shaded by trees ; they are well watered, the lights put on, and very little air given until they get established. They must never be allowed to get dry, for they are water-loving plants, and I do not think it is possible to give them too much. Although the plant is almost or quite hardy, I think it best to put a mat on the frame in severe frosty weather, though I have had them frozen through many a time, and have not found the frost injure them at all, if it is allowed to go out of the frame quietly, as it went in. During the winter the plants will make some growth, but not so much as some persons would like ; and here it is that they make a mistake. They grow it too fast, and get a lot of growth, but not the kind to bring flower, consequently they are not successful in getting a mass of berries. To make it berry freely it must be grown slowly, so as to obtain matured growth, and this will flower freely. In the beginning of March give plenty of air and water, and by the middle of the month take the lights off in the day-time ; and if there is any appearance of frost, put the lights on in the evening. Towards the end of the month the lights can be left off altogether. The plants will begin to show flower about the end of April, and by the end of May the little green berries may be seen nestling in 1877. ] THE AURICULA. - CHAPTER IX. 9 among tlie green foliage. I plant it out in the beds during the first week in June, taking care not to disturb the ball more than is necessary. It will be found to contrast beautifully with Sedum glaiicum. The habit of the Sedum is so neat, and the colour so soft, that it suits the Nertera well. The Nertera must be raised a little above the ground-level, to allow the foliage of the Sedum to be kept down close under it, in order that the berries may be seen just above the foliage. The berries of the Nertera begin to colour about the middle of July, and by the end of the month they will produce a good effect. Growing the Nertera in warmth causes it to berry too soon, and consequently the plants will not last the season through. It seems that we have had it berried here more freely than it has been seen elsewhere, and ever}’- one is pleased with its charming effect. — G. Legg, Cleveland lloiise^ Ckq:>liam Parle. — {Abridged from the Gardenerd Chronicle.^ THE AURICULA. Chapter IX. — Notes by the Way. — Election Lists (continued). ^^HERE are many more cheerful things in a day’s work than having to get lJ) up in the raw dark of a winter morning to catch the earliest train. It is day by the clock, but blind night to the eye ; and yet who has not, for all that, thrown open the shutters downstairs for the first streak of morning grey or red to gladden him at his untimely candle-light breakfast ! And when thus pressed into a highly unseasonable activity, have none of us horticulturists felt a humorous kind of S3’mpathy with our forced rhubarb, seakale, mushrooms, and other disturbed vegetables ; as if we, too, knew what it was to be “ forced,” and could understand the discomfort they must go through in their vegetable way, in being compelled to “ get up ” before their usual time, like ourselves blinking in the candle-light, to find the world wintry and dark I Of all our florist flowers, the Auricula is almost the lightest sleeper, and a very early riser. With it, January is like the hopeful hour within which the winter day will break ; and as the month grows old, wo begin, on the same prin¬ ciple as opening the shutters in the dark, to look earnestly for the first faint tinge of colouring that tells of the bright spring growth. By the end of the month, the plants will become excitable, and in a spell of open weather one here and there may show the green which there is no mistaking, or a leaf may spring back from the heart that has seemed so still. Do not, however, be tempted to change winter treatment yet. There will be no growth for the next six weeks to require more water than the strict winter supply. This should never be so short that the plants flag. If they have to show that sign of distress, with foliage short and thick, and little evaporation to cause thirst, they will have been in want for some time ; for at this season they will bear more than is good for them before they express suffering. I have the pleasure of appending some election lists, which, for various 10 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ January, causes, did not, reach me in time for the press last month. I trust that with those already given, they will he found to occupy a useful place in these papers ; — ■ Green-edged. Leigh’s Colonel Taylor. Booth’s Freedom. Trail’s Prince of Greens. Trail’s Anna. Ashton’s Prince of Wales. Hudson’s Apollo. Grey-edged. Headly’s George Lightbody. Lancashire’s Lancashire Hero. Mr. R. Lord, Todmorden. Hoadly’s Charles E. Brown. Sykes’ Complete. Kay’s Alexander Moiklcjohn. Cunningham’s JohuWaterston. White-edged. Heap’s Smiling Beauty. Hep worth’s True Briton. Ashworth’s Regular. Summerscalos’ Catharina. Lee’s Bright Venus. Wright’s Emma. Selfs. Spalding’s Blackbird. Pohlman’s Garibaldi. Lightbody’s Meteor Flag. Campbell’s Pizarro. Turner’s Charles J. Perry. Martin’s Mrs. Sturrock. Mr. Clement Royds and Mr. Jas. Ciieetiiam, Rochdale. Green-edged. Booth’s Freedom. Litton’s Imperator. Leigh’s Colonel Taylor. Trail’s Prince of Greens. Trail’s Anna. Ashton’s Prince of Wales. Grey-edged. Lancashire’s Lancashire Hero. Headiy’s Geo. Lightbody. Green-edged, Leigh’s Colonel Taylor. Booth’s Freedom. Litton’s Imperator. Page’s Champion. Beeston’s Apollo. Ashton’s Prince of Wales. Grey- edged. Headly’s Geo. Lightbody. Lightbody’s R. Headly. Kay’s Alex. Meiklejohn. Walker’s Geo. Lovick. Road’s Czar. Conqueror of Europe. White-edged. Heap’s Smiling Beauty. Hepworth’s True Briton. Taylor’s Favourite. Ashworth’s Regular. Mr. J. Douglas, York. Lancashire’s Lancashire Hero. Sykes’ Complete. Smith’s General Bolivar. Lightbody’s R. Trail. White-edged. Heap’s Smiling Beauty. Taylor’s Glory. Ashworth’s Regular. Hepworth’s True Briton. Taylor’s Glory. Trail’s Beauty, Selfs. Pohlman’s Ellen Lancaster. Lightbody’s Meteor Flag. Turner’s Charles Perry, Campbell’s Pizarro. Kay’s Topsy. Berry’s Lord Primate. Snmmerscales’ Catharina. Cbeetham’s Countess Wilton. Selfs. Netherwood’s Othello. Campbell’s Pizarro. Martin’s Mrs. Sturrock. Spalding’s Blackbird. Lightbody’s Lord Clyde, Pohlman’s Garibaldi. Mr. John Ratcliffe, Ovenden, Halifax. Green-edged. Trail’s Prince of Greens. Leigh’s Colonel Taylor. Trail’s Anna. Booth’s Freedom. Ashton’s Prince of Wales. Litton’s Imperatoi’. Grey-edged. Kay’s Alexander Meiklejohn. Headly’s George Lightbody. Green- edged. Leigh’s Colonel Taylor. Litton’s Imperator. Ashton’s Prince of Wales. Booth’s Freedom. Oliver’s Lovely Ann. Pago’s Champion. Grey -edged. liancashire’s Lancashire Hero. Sykes’ Complete. Read’s Dr. Horner. Lancashire’s Lancashire Hero. Sykes’ Complete. Cunningham’s John Waterston. White-edged. Heap’s Smiling Beauty. Hepworth’s True Briton. Ashworth’s Regulai*. Summerscalos’ Catharina. Mr. J. Kenyon, Halifax. Kenyon’s Ringleader. Headly’s George Lightbody. Grimes’s Privateer. Waterhouse’s Conqueror of Europe. White-edged. Heap’s Smiling Beauty. Hepworth’s True Briton, A shworth’s Regular. Summerscalos’ Catharina. Loo’s Earl Grosvonoi*. Lee’s Bright Venus. Selfs. Spalding’s Blackbird. Netherwood’s Othello. Pohlmau’s Garibaldi. Spalding’s Metropolitan. Lightbody’s Meteor Flag. Lightbody’s Lord Clyde. Choetham’s Countess Wilton. Lee’s Bright Venus. Selfs. Pohlman’s Ellen Lancaster. Nethorwood’s Othello. Pohlman’s Garibaldi. Spalding’s Blackbird. Whitaker’s True Blue. T urnor’s Charles J. Periy. We shall all doubtless have felt interested to see one another’s candid avowal 1877.] SELF ALPINE AUBICULAS. 11 of concealed affections, and the choices which we have perhaps never before studiously laid open to our fellow-florists. I think it plain that the lists will be collectively a lucid guide to any beginner wishing to know the best flowers. He cannot make a mistake among those on which all have laid such distinction. And which of us does not rejoice to find that Smiling Beauty — loveliest of white-edges, fairest of that fairest class, richest in her frosted-silver foliage, stateliest in her graceful bearing, purest in snowy edge, and blackest velvet of her blossoms — is, by acclamation. Queen among Auriculas ? No one who has seen Smiliug Beauty in her health and glory will easily forget her. With her high lead in first-place votes she represents the Auricula right royally. Some of us will have felt a great wish that we had had room here and there for another good sort. I, for instance, was sorry I had not room enough among the Selfs for such a flower, as Othello always is with me. But other points duly considered, I had made a rich variety and distinction in true Self ground-colours a rule of choice, and entrusted the black grounds to Ellen Lancaster^ a velvety, intensely black Self of great substance, and a direct descendant of Othello ; for the seed that produced Ellen Lancaster had rattled in a chance pod, shaking in the wind in Mr. Wilson’s garden. Mr. Pohlman had pity on the pod, and in due time his reward in a fine seedling. It is a brilliant exception to the rule that chance-saved Auricula seed is comparatively worthless. — F. D. Hoeneb, Kirlchy-Malzeard^ Bipon. SELF ALPINE AUKICULAS. S it is now decided that there shall be an exhibition of Auriculas in London during the coming spring, and as it is probable that some of the northern growers may be induced to bring their flowers southwards on that occa¬ sion, I venture to express the hope that, if a schedule of prizes be framed, it will be cast in as liberal a spirit as possible. Take, for instance, the pre¬ sent race of Alpine Auriculas, mainly raised by Mr. 0. Turner. Among these there are many flowers that are Self Alpines, and which, as a consequence, would be excluded from competition at the exhibitions of the National Auricula Society. They are too good, too brilliant in colour, and too striking in appear¬ ance to be passed over altogether ; they are the result of immense labour, and mark a wonderful stride in the march of improvement. But they are not true Alpines in the northern acceptation of the term. The first property in all Alpines is the shaded corolla lobes or petal, — z.c., the base of the marginal or ground-colour must be dark, with a paler edge, the dark hue shading off into the pale, and the more richly shaded a flower is, the better is it appreciated. Another important property is that, whether the centre or paste be yellow, or sulphur-yellow, or cream, or even white, it must be free from any trace of that meal which forms the paste in the true Self Auricula. I mention this, because I have met with named Alpine Auriculas that are not true Alpines, but nondescripts, because of the presence of this mealiness. 12 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ JANUARY, TliG yellow centre is not indispensable to the true Alpine, for there are some fine shaded flowers having white centres, but the yellow-centred Alpines are by far the most valuable ; pale-yellow, or custard centres, are admissible, but the nearer they approach to white, the less their value. So much were the yellow- centred Alpine Auriculas esteemed above those with white centres, that within the last year or two it has been found necessary to create a special class for the last-named at the exhibition of the National Auricula Society. But as every correct Alpine, according to the northern estimate, must have shaded petals, it is obvious that some of Mr. Turner’s flowers, and those produced by other raisers, though perfect in the centre, are yet inadmissible, because of their unshaded margins. But why cannot there be a class for Self Alpines, as there is for Self Auriculas in the show division ? Take flowers like Blade Prince^ Colonel Scott, Diamond, Etna, John Leech, King of Crhnsons, Mercury, Perceval, and Spangle, out of many others which have been raised at Slough, and they would find no place among shaded flowers, because almost entirely self- coloured on the margin ; and yet, though they have large finely-rounded pips, with golden meal-less centres, and brilliant marginal colouring, they are not allowed to start in the competitive race. By all means allow the shaded marginal colour to be characteristic of the true Alpine, but let there be a class provided for the Selfs, so that they also may have a chance to make a reputation on the exhibition-table. The concession made in favour of the white-centred flowers may well be carried a little farther, so as to include the beautiful Self Alpines now being pro¬ duced. The Floral Committee of the Eoyal Horticultural Society has awarded First- class Certificates to several of them, on account of their rare beauty. What do Auricula cultivators say to this proposal ? — Eichaed Dean, Ealing, W. COEN SALAD, OK MANCPIE OF THE FKENCH. (^fHIS forms an excellent and nutritious salad, little known and little culti- vated. Great quantities are grown in France, and consumed during the winter months. The little daisy-like tufts are cut off near the ground, thrown into water, washed clean, and switched dry in a towel ; then they are put in a salad-bowl, with a nice bit of tarragon and of chervil chopped up fine. The Mdnche is not cut up, but left entire. Oil and vinegar, pepper and salt, are added, of course, and the result is a very excellent dish; many a meal has been made of it and a bit of bread, and if the proportion of oil is two to one of vinegar, the meal is, of course, more nutritious and wholesome. Seed of this plant is sown at the end of August. Choose on a wet day a small piece of dug ground, and with the spade smooth dhe surface over equally. Sow the seed on the surface, and if the weather is likely to be dry, shade with a mat laid on flat, a stick or two being laid across the bed beneath. In a week or so, the little plants will appear in thousands, when the mat may be removed. They are ready for use after the first frost, and are the better for frost, to make them tender and crisp. It is highly commendable as a salad.— -H. Knight, Floors, r'- Rv, - * . 5#* » w* 4 ' • r. ) •V. ?' A •■ . '' ( 'V V ■■ to'V > WillisoiL's Queen Victoria Pear. J. L Marfarlane del. C. Sever eyns CliTomolilli,.Brussels. 1ST7.] MUTILATED FLOWERS OF CARNATIONS AND PICOTEES. 13 WILLISON^S QUEEN VICTOEIA PEAR. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. ^^^AMPLES of this excellent autumn Pear were sent to us in September, 1875, by the late Mr. W. Willison, of Whitby, who was well known as a florist and rose-grower. Along with the fruit came the following particulars of its history : — “ My Queen Victoria Pear was raised about twenty years ago, but whether from Marie Louise or Jargonelle I am not sure. I think it was from the latter, as it ripens nearly at the same time, and is of about the same size. This season the fruit is rather small. Like the Jargonelle, it does not keep long, and consequently it requires to be caught at the right stage ’of ripeness. Some of our best pomologists pronounce it the best early Pear they have tasted, and describe it as having a peachy flavour. The seedling tree has exhibited no sign of canker, and is very prolific.” Our plate gives an excellent representation of the appearance of this Pear, which reached us about the middle of September, and was then in condition for eating. The following memoranda -were made at the time : — Fruity about medium size, 7 in. round at the thickest part, and 4 in. on the longest side from the centre of the eye to the base of the stalk ; ovate, with the sides slightly hollowed. Stalky about in. long, set on very obliquely. Fi/e, large, with bold spreading segments, set in a very slight depression. Skin greenish, or pale brownish-tinted yellow-green, the exposed side with a thin coating of pale but bright russet-brown, just sufficient to give a warm tinge to the colouring. Flesh very juicy and sugary, having a strong pear flavour, blended with a smatch of that of noyeau. The flavour is most pronounced when the fruit is eaten without paring it. — T. Moore. MUTILATED FLOWERS OF CARNATIONS AND PICOTEES. Z.” writes : — “ I have not seen any reference in your papers on the Carnation and Picotee to the subject of ‘mutilated’ flowers, or what constitutes a ‘ mutilated ’ flower. The first rule of the schedule of prizes of the National Carnation and Picotee Society for the past year says, ‘ Any flower, or stand comprising a mutilated flower, will be disqualified.’ Late on the day of exhibition I saw several flowers from which the upper points of the calyx had been cut — from which, indeed, the whole of the incurved points had been removed : was not this a mutilation, and should not such flowers have been disqualified ?” Yes, undoubtedly a mutilation, and as undoubtedly should have been dis¬ qualified. But did our correspondent find any flowers so treated amongst the winning blooms ? If he did, I can only plead, as a set-off, the impossibility of making the full examination required in the time at the command of the judges. Late on the day of the exhibition my attention was called to this fault, which, as Talleyrand is reported to have said, was worse than a crime, ’twas a blunder,” 14 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST [ January, for if the exhibitor had properly recurved the points of the calyx, he would have had a support to the petals which this cutting-down mutilation deprived them of ; but no flower so treated was brought under my notice which had been placed amongst the winners. In the future, it will be well to recite what constitutes “ mutilation.” “ Any flower from which a rough edge has been taken by the use of the scissors, or the calyx cut, other than the dead tips, which in some varieties are invariably developed.” These being dead are lawfully subject to removal, as a grown-rent petal, or petal otherwise injurious to the symmetry of the flower, may be removed. What the florist may not do is to confer, by the dexterous use of the scissors, a smooth edge where nature has denied one, or to cut down the calyx. — E. S. Dodwell, Clapham. ZAMIA CRASSIFOLIA. IQnDER this name, Mr. Williams has exhibited during the past season, and ''A now catalogues, the striking-looking Oycad represented by the annexed woodcut (p. 1 5), which he has obligingly placed at our disposal. He describes (i) ... .... \ it as a distinct and dense-growing species, with pinnate leaves about two feet long, the petioles covered Avith a dense whitish tomentum ; the pinnae are from 2 in. to 2^ in. long, sharp-pointed, closely set, to which we may add that they are also variously directed. The plant is said to succeed Avell in a green¬ house. — T. Moore. POTHOS ARGYREA AS A WALL-OLOTHER. y|"|?EW plants are more beautiful than this Pothos, which forms one of the most striking and attractive of basket-plants. There are several varieties, but it is very seldom that any of them are seen in gardens. The above is no doubt the most beautiful, but Pothos ruhrinerma (the red- veined), is also a beautiful plant. They are semi-epiphytes, the branches throwing out into the air rootlets that adhere to a wall like ivy. The}!-, therefore, not only grow well ag-ainst walls, but run and root on them ; and it is in this stvle that the finely marked silvery variegated leaves of these plants show to most advantage. There is no plant at all like this Pothos in character or appearance. Every one is arrested by its novelt}'’, and struck by its beauty on walls. It is not a very fast grower, but the leaves last long in their perpetual beauty, as the plant is a true evergreen, and never seems to shed its foliage. The leaves, unlike those of many other choice variegated plants, also continue as bright and beautiful when old as in a young state. The}'- possess great substance, and will bear washing with less injury than almost any other leaves, should they unfortunately get soiled. The plant does remarkably well in a pocket of virgin cork, stones, or clinkers, on a wall. It is by no means particular' as to soil ; a mixture of equal parts of turfy loam and peat, with the usual addition of silver-sand, suits it admirably. It is very effective, hanging over a pocket on a wall, or from a high mass of rock ; 1S77. ] POTIIOS ARGYREA AS A WALL-CLOTHER. 15 but the plant delights to hug the wall closely, and if left to its own devices — and this is the surest method to secure artistic results — it will run into the chinks Zamia ceassifolia (see p. 14). and crevices of the rough cork, stone, or other substance with which the walls of houses are now so often made interesting, if not picturesque, and break out in branchlets or leaves of exquisite beauty in the most unlikely places. These IG THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST, [ January, Fotlios surprises arc remarkably satisfying, for their intense beauty, as well as naturalness. Fothos on a wall speedily loses the character of having been planted, and seems as if indeed it might have been generated or produced by the wall-material itself. This, I take it, is almost the perfection of wall-furnishing, for the hand of art to be hidden under the art and beauty of a natural-like effect. The Fothos argyrea is also easily propagated. The tip or any portion of each shoot or branchlet will grov7, if merely placed in soil and subjected to a temperature of from 65° to 70°. This is also the heat that suits the Fothos best in a growing state ; therefore the places for it are the walls of the plant-stove or orchid-house. — D. T. Fish, Hardwiche House. THE CARNATION AND PICOTEE. Chapter XIII. — Descriptions of the Best Varieties, Old and New. EFOEE I had completed my self-imposed task of writing a monthly paper on these flowers, it was urged upon me by various correspondents that my work would be incomplete without a descriptive list, setting out the p specialities of the various kinds now most esteemed, with any peculiarity of treatment required ; and I so far see the force of this argument, that I have willingly undertaken this further task. I have myself — and I have not the slifflitest sense of shame in the avowal — such a keen sense of the beauties of O the Carnation and Picotee, such an enjoyment in watching them through every stage and phase of their development, and such an eager appetite for every particular of their history, or specialities of their cultivation, that I cannot grow tired or satiated, though the story be oft-told. To me “ age cannot wither, nor custom stale ” their infinite variety but whether this may be the case with my readers, I am not able to judge. Still, if I may draw an inference from the correspondence reaching me — which comes with an ever-increasing volume — I am bound to believe the love for ‘‘ florists’ flowers ” is decidedly in the ascendant. For the descriptions to which an asterisk [^] is prefixed, I am indebted to my friend, Mr. George Eudd, of Bradford, his experience of those varieties being more extended than my own : — Scarlet Bizarre Carnations. Admiral Curzon (Easom). — Twenty-four years ago I wrote : — “ Commencing alpha¬ betically, this variety is first on my list, as it is first in my regard,” and despite the change such a lapse of time inevitably brings, it is pleasant to record the Admiral is yet left to us, and is as worthy of admiration as in the days of his earliest youth. Wherever Carnations are grown, north, east, west, or south, there is Curzon, and, wherever shown, always to the front ; indeed, quite nine times in ten it is the best flower of the exhibition. Raised at Derby by James Milwood, but sold by him prior to blooming to Mr. Easom, whose name it bears ; first bloomed in 1844, sent out in 1845 ; it was one of those large leaps in advance which seem to defy all efforts to surpass. For several years its origin was the subject of dispute, Milwood asserting the seed was taken from his Premier P.P., but in this I have good ground for believing he was mistaken ; and I have as little reason to doubt, it sprang from Walmsley’s William IV., which, excepting only the “ legginess ” of that old variety, it closely follows 1877. ] THE CARNATION AND PICOTEE. - CHAPTER XIII. 17 both in habit and grass. It has a beautifully shaped petal, smooth, gently cupped, and of good substance, though it requires the aid of a card in blooming. Its colours are rich, bright, well-delineated, and strongly contrasted. Its outline is as unbroken as any flower I have ever cultivated, and its form when skilfully dressed good. It is of medium size, and a good grower, and generally produces abundance of pollen, but rarely bears seed unless carefully impregnated. When fairly started, during the swelling of the buds, an occasional dose of clear manure-water will add to the lustre of its colours and the size of its flowers, but it must be understood, this is never given to any weakly plants, whether of this or other varieties ; such are always stopped, not stimulated, and thus their energies being devoted solely to the young growth, strong, healthy layers are generally obtained for another season. Campanini (^Turner).* — A very large and very full variety, also full of colour, but sadly too confused to please the taste of the northern florists. Mr. Turner has shown this, I am told, in good style, and with well-defined markings, but with me not only have the centre petals been narrow and confused, but the markings have been broken and undefined. Duke of Edinburgh (Abercrombie).* — Good-shaped petal, very leathery in texture, but difificult to open in our northern air. The colours are good, and the flower lasts long in bloom. Dreadnought (Daniels). — A variety of extra tine character wherever grown true, though, unhappily, from the fault or misfortune of the raiser, in many, if not in most cases, Admiral Curzon was distributed for it. A seedling from Curzon, it follows its parent in most of its characteristics, save that its habit of grass is somewhat more erect and stiff, and when in good health it grows from six to twelve inches higher ; the bizarre colour is also markedly darker. Raised at York. Sent out in 1858. Garibaldi (Heap). — As seen at Manchester, a variety of good form and well-defined markings, but the colours lack the richness needed to constitute a first-class variety. A good grower apparently. • Guardsman (Turner).* — Shown in good character by Mr. Turner at the July Show of the Royal Horticultural Society, and then pronounced by D. Deal, the representative and exponent of “florist’s flowers” in the Journal of Horticulture, as the best flower of the exhibition, but so far were the Judges, as I can testify, from sharing the opinion, that it seriously detracted from the merits of an otherwise flrst-class collection. It is a variety of lai’ge size and rich colours, but the centre petals are much too small and too con¬ fused to please the northern taste. John Burnett (Harland).* — A sport from Wm. Harland S.F., by the same raiser. The petal is scarcely so fine in form as Admiral Curzon, but nothing can surpass its lovely colours. Requires generous growth, and should not carry more than two flowers on a plant. Medium early in flower. Lord Derby (Heap). — A flower of good form and medium size ; petal smooth, well shaped, fair substance, and the markings distinct. Of its white ground I cannot speak, as my plants were “ run,” but I thought it worth replacing. A good grower. Lord Napier (Taylor).* — A largo fine flower, with plenty of colour and well-distributed, but the bizarre is pale, which injures the effectiveness of its contrast. Requires good growth. Raised by the late Mr. James Taylor, of Sneinton, near Nottingham. Lord Rancliffe (Holliday). — Bloomed, I believe, first in 1844, and sent out as a variety of high pretensions. Twenty-four years ago, I wrote, “I think this flower has been quite sufficiently praised. I have seen it good once or twice, and only once or twice since it came out. It has fine, large, broad guard petals, but the higher tiers diminish too rapidly, and are too confused. When good the colours are very dark, regular, and well-contrasted, the white being pure, but I never saw it so smooth as several other varieties I could name. The grass is small, but prolific in increase.” I have nothing to add to or detract from my description of such far-off time, but I am glad to recognise the vitality which gives it life and a place to this day. Mars (Hextall). — Raised by my lamented friend, Mr. J. D. Hextall, of Ashby de la Zouch, in the last years of his green old age, and sent out in 1873. A seedling from Admiral Curzon; it is larger than the parent in size, and a more vigorous grower. A seasonal variety, requiring a hot summer to bring out its white ground in good character, it yet de- . serves cultivation, wherever the Carnation is esteemed, for its massive style, symmetrical form, and well-defined markings. Colours rich. Grow generously, but with a liberal ad¬ mixture of charcoal in the compost. Will carry two full-sized flowers. Mercury (Hextall). — A companion flower to the above, and from the same parentage ; scarcely so rich in its colours, — as seen by me last season, but my plants were not in rude health, — nevertheless, a variety of fair promise. Sir .Joseph Paxton (Ely). — Sent out in 1851, being a seedling of that year. A flower of noble proportions, full of coloux-, and very commanding, though far behind Curzon, which when offered for sale, it was said to surpass. The petal is smooth and gently cupped, but slightly too long. Habit of grass compact ; a tall grower, and prolific. Origin unknown. 0 18 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ January, Tkue Briton (Hepvvortli). — One of the oldest varieties known. When ill-grown, a wretched thing, serrated and roflexed ; but when well-grown, it is a very showy, strongly marked, and strikingly bold variety, forming a capital object for the back row of the home stage, and very often a good flower for the back tier of the stand. It is a good grower, has a fairly shaped petal, and the colours are well distributed. — E. S. Dodwell. NEPHROLEPIS DAVALLIOIDES FURCANS. 'HE type of this fine new Fern is the extremely handsome Javanese species, N eiihrolepls davallioides^ now become familiar in cultivation. The charming and very distinct variety, of which the annexed woodcut (p. 19) is an illustration, was originally described by us in the Gardeners^ Chronicle for 1873 (p. 213), our knowledge of it having been derived from Messrs. Veitch and Sons, of Chelsea, to whom our thanks for the use of the figure are due. They state that the plant was received by them from Messrs. J. Baptist and Sons, of Sydney, N.S.W. ; that it was exhibited at the International Exhibition in Cologne in August, 1875 ; and that it received certificates from the Royal Horticultural Society in 1873, and the Royal Botanic Society in 1874. It is a noble fern, of robust growth, sending forth numerous arching fronds, from 3 ft. to 4 ft. long. From the normal form it differs obviously in the multifid furcation of the pinnae. In the sterile pinnae, which are few in number, at the base of the fronds, the furcation is rudimentary ; but the upper fertile pinnae are deeply parted, the furcation being twice, or even thrice, repeated in the extremities of the first divisions, the furcation thus becoming more complex towards the point of the frond ; the lobes are all more or less divaricate. It is a stove fern, of evergreen habit, and the multifid apices of its pinnae render it one of the most ornamental of the larger-growing sorts. — T. Moore. *. , V ■v^ - NOTES ON THE CULTURE OF VINES IN POTS. '^HEN it is intended to produce Grapes very early in the year, many persons prefer growing the Vines in pots ; and when they are well managed, very good fruit can be obtained in April. Vines are so easily raised from eyes, and can be grown with so little trouble into fine fruit- ing-canes, the same season in which the eyes are planted, that any one having the convenience of a forcing-house can grow them. All free-fruiting varieties of vines are suitable for early forcing, but some varieties are much better adapted to this purpose than others. The best of all is Blade Ilamhiirg ; it is a certain bearer, and produces fruit of large size and ex¬ cellent quality. I have tried nearly all the most ‘popular black sorts, to compare with it, but none of them are equal to it on all points. Snow’s Muscat Hamburg bears very freely, but I never found it set well on its own roots as a pot-vine, and as a consequence, the bunches were loose and the berries irregular in size. When Royal Ascot was sent out, it was thought to be well adapted for pot- 1S77. ] NOTES ON THE CULTURE OF VINES IN POTS 10 culture, as well as for early forcing, but it lias not justified tlie expectations formed of it, and it cannot be depended upon to supply good early grapes from pot-vines. • Perhaps the best white variety is Fosters White Seedling; it is of free- bearing quality, and the berries set well, and are of good flavour early in the c 2 20 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ January, year ; for forcing and pot-culture, it is the best white companion to Black Ham¬ burg. Biiclcland Siveetivater comes next, and would be placed first, but I have not found it do well except when worked upon Black Hamburg. For many years I have exhibited Buckland Sweetwater at the early shows of the Eoyal Horticultural Society and other exhibitions, nearly always taking first prizes with them, but the vines are all grafted on Black Hamburg stocks, and planted- out. If Buckland Sweetwater can be grafted on this stock, and the vines be placed in a sunny position, no white grape except Muscat of Alexandria can be compared to it. White Frontignac is a very good white grape for pot-culture, and should be grown for its distinct, rich musky flavour. The new varieties raised by Mr. Thomson, of Clovenfords, I have not tried in pots. They are noble grapes, but I am afraid too tender for pot-culture ; they are both grown at Loxford Hall in the early vineries, and when we can pilot them over the various ills that grape-vines are heir to, no other white grapes are equal to them in appearance, and the flavour is distinct and very rich. They are worked on the Black Hamburg stock ; but even then, should the sun catch the leaves, through insufficient ventilation or other causes, Duhe of Buccleiich will suffer first, and Golden Champion next. But then we ought not to be caught napping, and knowing that high-class Crapes are likely to be injured if we are, it will be only an incentive to increased vigilance. Well, then, in a few words, the sum of the matter is this : — If the largest quantity of first-class grapes is to be furnished from a given space from pot- vines, and if a few white grapes are wanted, it will be best to grow five canes of Black Hamburg to one of Foster’s Seedling. Excellent pot-vines can be supplied by the trade for forcing purposes, but they are very expensive, and when gardeners have to grow a large number, they must also propagate their own stock. The eyes should be saved from vines that were fruited early, and they should be put in, each eye singly, in small pots in December, about the middle of the month. Towards the end of January place the pots in a forcing-house with a temperature of 55° at night. The pots should be plunged in a bed of tan, or other fermenting material, in a bottom-heat of 85° or 90°. When the young vines have grown three or four inches, repot them into 5-inch pots, and plunge the pots again into the bottom-heat. When the roots have grown to the sides of the pots, raise them up and simply stand them on the surface of the plunging material ; in ten days or a fortnight after this, the vines may again be potted into 8-in. pots. I never plunge them after this, as they make a better class of roots when the pots are not plunged. After these pots are again well filled with roots, the vines will be ready to be potted into their fruiting-pots. 11-in. or 13-in. are the best sizes. Each time of potting, the compost should be well rammed in round the ball. Vines luxuriate in rich clayey loam, with some crushed bones added to it. If the loam consists of the turfy part of an old pasture, no manure will be re¬ quired ; but, if the loam is not fibrous, a little rotted stable-manure added to it 1877. ] VILLA GARDENING FOR JANUARY. 21 will serve to keep the material open. When the vines are in full growth, they require plenty of tepid water to be applied to both roots and leaves, and the house should be shut up early in the afternoon, to utilise as much as possible the heat of the sun. The temperature may rise as high as 05° after the house is shut up ; the best time to syringe is when the ventilators are opened in the morning, and at shutting-up time in the afternoon. Eed-spider will be kept off by frequent syringings, and should thrips appear, it will be necessary to fumigate. — J. Douglas, Loxford Hall Gardens^ Ilford. VILLA GAKDENING FOR JANUARY. HE out-door garden being practically closed to gardening operations, for the soil is so thoroughly saturated with moisture, that getting on it is ® likely to do it much more harm than good, the greenhouses and pits afford many little matters of occupation for the lover of flowers. The Cold Greenhouse : If this be a house without means of artificial heating, the plants in it cannot well be kept too dry during the prevalence of so much moist, dull, mild weather. Some persons have an idea that plants of a tender character cannot be wintered in a cold house, but experience proves that many things can be wintered unharmed, if but a few precautions be taken. Such plants as Cinerarias.^ Calceolarias., Pelargoniums., both of the show and zonal sections ; Mimulus., Azaleas., Ilerhaceous Begonias., Fuchsias., and others of which these may be taken as fair representatives, can be successfully wintered in such a house, if so be they receive some attention. All these plants are, more or less, at a state of rest at this time of year, and those that may be said to be growing, of which the Cineraria., Calceolaria., and Pelargoniums are the best representatives, only require just sufficient moisture at the roots to keep the plants from flagging. Many and many an effort is put forth to winter a few plants, and if failure comes, it conies through damp rather than frost and cold. Now, but little water should be given, and in giving it care should be taken that none of it falls on the leaves, or any drips from the plants on to the leaves of plants below them. If the shelves and the soil of the plants be dry when frost comes, then the possibility of harm is re¬ duced to a minimum. A strong paraffin lamp will keep out much frost, and the plants can be made additionally secure by placing a few newspapers over them. This is a capital plan. Give a little air, except when the wind blows cold, and even then a little air can be given on the side of the house opposite to the quarter from which the wind is blowing. The W arm Greenhouse : By this is meant a house heated by means of hot- water pipes or a brick flue ; and here many tender plants can be wintered, and by means of a few winter-flowering plants, such as Cyclamens., Bouvardias, Zonal Pelargoniums., Hyacinths., &c., a pleasing display of bloom can be had. The common fault of amateur gardeners is that they fire-up too much, and by doing so, get the house filled with a dry atmosphere in a greater degree than is really re- 22 THE FLOETST AND POMOLOGIST. [ JANUAEY, quired. During tlie weather that now prevails, no fire-heat is required by day, but a little may be put on by night, and only enough to make the temperature agreeable, — a genial, temperate warmth of from 50° to 55°. Advantage may be taken of a sunny day to give a gentle syringing with tepid water, and plants must not be suffered to want for water ; at the same time, only what is abso¬ lutely necessary is really required, and as much as can be given. Green-fly will put in an appearance in both houses, and they are partial to the buds of Ctjcla- mens, and to Cinerarias, and the young points of &\\o'N-Pelarrjoniums. Fumigate the house with tobacco-smoke, or if the vermin are not in sufficient force, wash the few plants affected with Fowler’s gardeners’ insecticide, or soft-soap and sulphur dissolved in warm water. Frames : Many persons are found gallantly fighting against many difficulties in their desire to winter a few choice plants in a cold frame. Here also, as in the case of the cold greenhouse, the great enemy is damp. Too often the frame is set down in a low damp spot, where there is little or no natural drainage, and no attempt made to secure it. It is almost impossible that plants can do well, for while the frame may be covered to exclude frost, it will not exclude damp. The drier the soil is kept about the roots of the plants the better will be the chance of wintering them in safety ; and the more air that can be given in favour¬ able weather the better for the plants. If the soil be wet on which they are placed, it is a good plan to raise the pots above it by standing them on other pots inverted, or by raising them on bricks, pieces of timber, or anything else available for the purpose. All decaying leaves need removal, as damp hangs about them, and by this means spreads to others. Vegetable Garden : As soon as the weather breaks to drier times, all pieces of ground from which crops have been removed should be half-trenched or deeply dug over. It will be sufficient to simply dig light soil, going down to the depth of a good spit, bringing up the lowermost soil to the surface. In the case of re¬ tentive soils, trenching is to be recommended, and it should be set about by taking out a trench across the piece of ground at one end, either throwing it back or wheeling it to the other end, and then take out another trench three spits wide, throwing the surface-soil to the bottom of the trench first opened, and bringing up the second spit to the surface, going on thus till the ground is finished. The heavier the ground, the greater the necessity for laying it up rough in ridges, so that frost and wind can act upon it. If it has not been pre¬ viously worked, too much of the lower stratum should not be brought up at one time, but the bottom should be broken up and left in the trench. There are many small gardens, round London, for instance, in which yellow clay prevails to a great extent, and the London clay is a stubborn material to bring into subjection. Almost anything mixed with it makes it more open and workable. A good dressing of mortar-rubbish from an old building, decaying vegetable refuse of any kind, the ashes from burnt heaps of rubbish, and cinder- ashes, are all good. The contents of many an ash-hole would be of great value 1877. ] GARDEN GOSSIP. 23 if, instead of being carted away by tbe dustman, it were worked into the ground at this season of the year. It is not required on light soils, but it greatly tends to make heavy and retentive soils more workable. — D. GAKDEN GOSSIP. are pleased to find that the efforts being made to secure a Southern, Show of the National Auricula Society,, are likely to lead to a f successful issue. A conference of gentlemen interested in the advance¬ ment of Floriculture was held as already announced at South Kensing¬ ton, on Xovember 8, when the following resolutions amongst others were unanimously agreed to: — “That the invitation to hold an exhibition of Auriculas in London in 1877 be accepted, and that the gentlemen present do form a Committee, with power to add to their number, to carry out the same. That Francis Whitbourn, Esq., Loxford Hall, be requested to be Presi¬ dent; that Mr. Charles Turner be Vice-President; and Mr. Dodwell be Hon. Secretary. That a subscription list be opened for the purpose of obtaining the funds needed (from £50 to £70), to ensure the display which it is desired to produce. At a subsequent meeting held on December G, the Hon. Secretary reported that Mr. Whitbourn had kindly accepted the office of President, and promised a donation of £5 to the prize fund. Mr. Turner reported that the Crystal Palace authorities would make arrangements to hold the Show on Tuesday, April 24, and offered a donation of £10 to the prize fund, which offers were accepted. At the same meeting Mr Turner, Mr. Douglas, and Mr. Dodwell were appointed a Sub-Committee, to draft a schedule of prizes to be submitted to a future meeting of the Committee, and were instructed to provide therein certain prizes for Polyanthuses. The list of subscriptions promised already amounts to upwards of £56. Burbidge announces tlie speedy publication of a new book specially devoted to propagation and hybridism in plants, under the title of Culti¬ vated Plants, their Propagation and Improvement. Amongst the subjects to be treated on are Natural Propagation; Hints on the Improvement of Fruits, Vegetables, and Flowers ; Propagating-Houses, Pits, Frames, &c. ; Seed-Saving and Seed-Sowing ; Trans¬ mission of Seeds, Plants, Cuttings, and Pollen from Abroad ; Artificial Propagation ; Hy¬ bridising and Cross-Breeding ; Bud Variation or Sports ; Notes on the Parentage of Existing Hybrids ; and a Propagator’s Calendar. The work thus seems to be a popular vade-mecum on all the many interesting points connected with the hybridisation, propagation, and improvement of plants. ^ - 3In the greenhouse, Niel Rose,, planted out, will now (January) be bursting its buds freely, and it should be smoked before the shoots grow much. The plant should be provided with free and liberal doses of manure-water, and if practical, a top-dreasing of rotten dung and soil mixed, and if plants have to stand on tbe bed in which they are grown, this top-dressing may be again covered with gravel or river-sand. This Kose, Mr. Knight observes, is really worth a house to itself, for with liberal treatment it may be more or less in flower half the year. There are few places where it gets enough room to develope itself. - the meeting of the National Carnation and Picotee Society, held in Leeds on the 15th ult., -it was unanimously resolved to hold two exhibitions in the northern districts during 1877, one at Manchester, and the other either at Leeds or Bradford, as may bo locally arranged. A liberal subscription was commenced as a nucleus of the necessary pi'izes. It was further unanimously resolved that the schedule of prizes shall be founded on the suggestion of the President, as given in a recent paper in the Florist and Pomologist, and that in the classes for single specimens there shall be no re¬ striction as to the number of times a variety should win. A proposal for a third show of the society, to be held in London, making three in the season, mooted in some correspondence i-ead by Mr. Dodwell, was received with acclamation by the meeting, and it was understood would be pressed forward so soon as the arrangements for the National Auricula Society’s 24 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ JANUARY, Southern show was complete. The meeting was especially interesting for its unanimity, warmth, and fervour. _ ^he use of Wires f 07' tndiwig Fruit-trees on Walls^ instead of nails and shreds, is becoming more com¬ mon ; and so long as the wires are kept close in, so as to avoid draughts, they are doubtless as con¬ genial to the tree as the older and more tedious method. The wires and eyes, both galvanised, are now to be ob¬ tained readily, but there are various modes adopted for tightening the wires. One of the simplest and most effective plans we have seen is that of Messrs. Reynolds and Co., of Soho Square, and which consists simply of a screw provided with a loop at the one end and a nut at the other. The screw end is passed through the eye, and by turning the nut, which is done with a spanner provided for the pur¬ pose, the wires can be promptly and with little effort drawn up as tight as may be required. - ®!he Gai'denei^s' Yea7^-Booh and Almanacl:^ for 1877, comes again as a welcome reminder of many things one is apt to forget. The tabular information is ample, and of a practically useful character ; and the notes on New Flowers, Fruits, and Vegetables, form a fairly complete register of the novelties of the year. One of the special features of this issue of the Almanack is the reproduction of some of the Chiswick trial reports. - Hn Sutton’s Amateui's’ Guide in Iloi'ticidtm'e^ we have an elegantly got-up quarto hi^ochiu'e^ intended as a drawing-room book of reference for amateurs. It is handsomely printed, profusely illustrated, and prefaced by a faithful and well-executed large group of flowers done in colours, and forming a folding introductory plate. The contents consist of paragraphs on the culture of the different vegetables and flowers, similar to those usually given under the several subjects in the seed catalogue, but here associated with the illustrations in a separate book. It contains 220 engravings, and the coloured plato represents 25 choice flowers. ©fiftttarg. - |Ue. John Ingram, of Huntingdon, died on December 10, aged 54 years. He was a partner in the much respected firm of Wood and Ingram, nurserymen, Huntingdon, of which town he last year filled the office of Mayor. - J^ENRY Steward, Esq., of York, died on December 15. Mr. Steward, who took an active part in municipal life, having been Lord Mayor of York in 1873, was an active and ardent florist, and had been for upwards of 40 years a member of the committee of an ancient society of florists of that city, founded in 1 7(>0, find now in a flourishing condition. Auriculas, Tulips, Carnations, and Picotees alike sliarcd his regard; a nd as an exhibitor of show Pelargoniums, he frequently carried off the highest honours at the York Horticultural Galas, of which also he had been for several years chairman of committee. The memory of jMr. Steward will be affectionately cherished by all florists who had the pleasure to know him. - ;fI®lR. William Ingle died at Birch Hall, Colchester, on December 13, aged 52, having been for 30 years gardener and steward to the late C. G. Round, Esq., and his family. He was a frequent and successful exhibitor of roses. f I ( ) i f I t. ] , L . MaoiarlaTie del , Bel Ic rni[)ei*iale Pc aeh . THE PEAR SEASON OP 1876. 25 BELLE IMPl^RIALE PEACH. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. HIS is a late variety of Peach, well deserving to be better known and more extensively cultivated. It ripens about the same time as the Late Admirable, and is often highly coloured, like the Bellegarde. The sample from which our figure was made ripened about the middle of September, and having been grown under glass, is consequently somewhat deficient in colour. The fruit is large, somewhat ovate, being taller than broad and rather smaller upwards, marked with a shallow suture, and having a slight terminal depression. The skin is finely downy, of a pale greenish-yellow, more or less marbled with rosy crimson on the sunny side. The fiesh is pale greenish white, very juicy and tender, deeply stained with red at the stone, from which it freely parts ; it has a pleasant and refreshing flavour, fully equal to that of the best late varieties in cultivation. The leaves are crenate at the margins, and furnished with roundish reniform glands at their base. Mr. Scott, in the Orcliardist^ describes it as of the first size and quality, ripening in September, and he gives Admirable de Septembre as a synonym. He further states it is “ a variety of the Peach Bon Ouvrier, which it much resembles ; skin pale yellow, with a bright purple flush on the sunny side ; flesh vinous, sugary, rich, melting, and excellent. Introduced by me from Paris, 1867.” — T. Moore. THE PEAR SEASON OF 1876. (T is extremely difficult to name the correct time when Pears should ripen, for much depends upon the season, and the soil in which they grow. The flavour of some Pears is likewise determined by the seasons, and in the exceptional one of 1876, there has been a great difference both in ripening and flavour of some of the varieties grown here compared with other years. The soil of the kitchen garden here is of a stiff, adhesive nature, with the sub¬ soil of strong red clay, but well drained, and in dry, warm summers the Pear generally grows the strongest and shows the finest fruit. The spring of 1876 was not, however, favourable for Pears setting their fruit well, especially on standards, and the crop was below the average. Of the earliest ripening section. Doyenne d^Ete\ Citron des Carmes^ Beurre Giffard, and Clapp’s Favourite^ grown as bushes on the quince stock, and ripen¬ ing as they did during the warm months of July and August, were excellent in flavour. Some trees of the Jargonelle^ double worked on the Beurre d’Amanlis as the stock, ripened their fruit juicier and of higher flavour than wall-grown fruit. In September, Louise Bonne of Jersey^ Souvenir du Congres^ Williams’ Bon Chretien Beurre Superfin^ and Beurre Bosc^ were the best-flavoured of the varieties grown here ; and all are on the quince stock, and grown as bushes or pyramids. The principal collection of the mid-season and late Pears is grown here on a wire-trellised arcade, and they are mostly on the Pear stock. Comte de Lamy, 3bd series. — X. D 26 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST, [ February, Marie Louise^ Huy she's Victoria^ Qratiola of Jersey^ GanseVs Bergamot^ Fondantc (TAutomne, and Thompson's ripened average crops, and the flavour of the fruit was excellent. The fine old variety, Glou Morqeau^ I never saw clearer in the skin than it was this year, and the flavour was exquisite. In most seasons, this variety, grown on standards, shows the fruit cracked and variable in size, but the dry and almost tropical heat in August seemed to suit it. Of the very late varieties of Pears grown on this trellis, Winter Nelis docs not yield so fine fruit as on the walls, but it is nevertheless one of the best late sorts grown for flavour. Knight's Monarchy Nouvelle Fulvie^ Huyshe's Prince of Wales^ Josephine de Malines^ Easter Beurre\ Ne Plus Meuris^ Beurre de Rance^ Bergamotte d'Esperen^ Madame Millet^ and Doyenne d'Alenqon^ all ripened crops of average-sized fruits, which are keeping well. Hacon's Incomparable^ a large round-fruited sort, like Easter Beurre in flavour, always grows well on the strong soil here, and keeps till June. Of stewing Pears, Catillac and St, Lhin always bear well on this trellis, and I find no other varieties are wanted, for they keep well all the season through, and cannot be surpassed for baking or stewing purposes. — William Tillery, Welbech. ODONTOGLOSSUM PULCHELLUM GRANDIFLOEUM. y ^P'EW if any Orchids are more chaste and beautiful than this lovely, white, sweet-scented species. It is a very easily grown plant, and may be ranked amongst the cool kinds. It should be potted in very lumpy fibry ^ peat, silver-sand, and small crocks, and not raised too much above the rim of the pot, as it likes a good share of water when growing. It begins to flower at this season, and each spike on well-grown plants bears from twelve to twenty flowers. We had a plant here, which, until it was broken down, carried every year some two dozen spikes. The flowers of this lovely orchid are about the size of a shilling, with the perfume of the Lily of the Valley. Those who have not got it, will be always satisfied if they purchase a plant or two, for it is most commendable.- -Henry Knight, Floors Castle. WINTER-FLOWERING EUPATORIUMS. fAM much pleased to learn that there is a probability of the confounding multiplicity of names by which these most useful and deliciously fragrant ? evergreen greenhouse shrubs have hitherto been known, being at last definitely rectified, and that henceforward we may know their authentic designations. The accompanying woodcut will greatly facilitate the recognition of them. Of this interesting group there are three which have a natural tendency to bloom during the winter months, when flowers are most prized, and which, as they yield a succession of fragrant blossoms without forcing, are acceptable additions to our winter-flowering plants, commending themselves to notice, more¬ over, as they do by their easy culture, and by producing their clusters of elegant white flowers in the greatest profusion. 1877.] WINTER-FLOWERING EUFATORIUMS. 27 In offering a few remarks upon tlieir cultivation, I sliall take them in the order of their blooming. Eupatorium Berlandieri^ which is the first to bloom in autumn, has a somewhat slender habit of growth, with thin, heart-shaped, slightly serrated leaves, requiring a little more care in cultivation and general management than cither of the others herein referred to. Any extra care is, however, amply * rewarded by the extreme fragrance of the abundant flowers, which is so powerful as to be at once manifest even when a couple of plants only are present in a large conservatory. This plant flourishes best during the blooming period in a warm Fig. 1. Eupatoridm Bbrlandibri ; 2. E. ltgustrinum. greenhouse temperature, which insures more perfect development, as it is some¬ what liable to lose a portion of its wiry shoots when subjected during dull weather to the atmosphere of a cool greenhouse. A suitable soil in which to grow this Evpaiorinm may consist of two parts turfy loam to one of peat and leaf-mould, adding sand and charcoal to secure porosity. To obtain good-sized flowering plants the first year, cuttings should be struck as early in the season as possible, and pushed forward in a brisk grow- D 2 28 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ February, ing temperature. If potted-on as the roots extend, they will make rapid pro¬ gress, and will require to be shifted into 6, 7, or 8-in. pots during May. In order to insure a neat, compact habit of growth, it is very important that they should be fully exposed to light, and kept near to the glass, pinching back the shoots repeatedly, which is the only means to insure density of habit. When the young growth is somewhat advanced under glass and judiciously hardened, which will be after midsummer, remove the plants to a sheltered situation — yet fully exposed — out of doors ; and from this time discontinue the stopping of the shoots, more particularly of such as are required to bloom very early. To obtain larger plants a portion of the one-year-old plants should be cut closely back after flowering, and as soon as the buds have pushed, repotted, reducing the balls and roots, and afterwards encouraging active growth. As this plant blooms so early in the season, I prefer to grow the earliest batch in pots. They, however, grow freely planted out upon a warm garden-border, and may be taken up and potted during September. [This, the most highly-scented of the species, long known in gardens as E. gracile odoratum^ has been identified with E. Berlandieri, by Mr. Baker.] Eupatorium ligustrinum^ alias E. Weinmannianum^ E. odoratum^ &c., has the great merit of hardiness of constitution, which enables it to stand unaffected in a comparatively cold atmosphere. It is, moreover, a free-growing, dense- habited shrub, clothed with bright glossy leaves, and furnished during mid-winter in the greatest profusion with its fragrant blossoms, which have the additional property of standing for a length of time in perfection. As to treatment, it may accord very much with that of the preceding variety in the younger stages of growth, but being more robust in constitution, it will luxuriate in a richer soil, and being so thoroughly hardy, immense plants may be produced, where space is no object, by planting out the one-year-old plants, and repotting them again during September, placing them in a shady situa¬ tion until established. This is an excellent companion for the former species, and is certain to please all who may essay its culture. It is an old acquaintance, which I have known during the last twenty-eight years, and has been brought again into prominent notice by the large and growing demand for winter-blooming subjects. This plant has been mentioned by Mr. Green, of the Botanic Nursery, Eeigate, as standing out unprotected, and producing flowers for several winters, in Sussex {Gard. Chron.^ n.s., v. 115). This is, no doubt, quite correct, as I have known it to stand occasionally unprotected in favoured situations during mild winters. At the same time, the blossoms do not expand fully or with any amount of freedom ; therefore, excepting in highly-favoured localities and situations, I look upon E. ligustrinum as a worthless plant for the open border. There are two varieties of this under cultivation, but so closely related as to differ merely in the more upright lax habit of the one as compared with the other, the flower-clusters being exactly alike, whilst the growing plants in general aspect are certainly distinct. The Eupatorium riparium very fitly sncceeds E, ligustrinum as to time of 1877. ] THE AURICULA. — CHAPTER X. 29 flowering. This is a free-habited sort, which quickly forais handsome compact bushes, clothed with glossy willow-shaped dentated leaves, and producing in the greatest abundance its silvery blossoms, which issue from the axil of every leaf ; it is indispensable for decorative purposes. These showy and serviceable plants can¬ not be too strongly recommended, as they come into flower naturally, without forcing, and are so easily cultivated that all having the advantage of a greenhouse may enjoy them.—GEO. Westland, Withy Court. THE AUKICULA. Chapter X. — Work for the Month. — Top-dressing. — Self Alpines.— Summary, &o. — Conclusion of Election Lists. HE number lengthens on the heading of these chapters, as on the milestones of a journey, and our round of a year with the Auricula will soon complete its circle. Here is the tenth stage of its appointed twelve ; but along the remainder of the way lie the loveliest scenes of all, the spring life, and the flowering of the plant we have had before us. The Auricula could not have bloomed at a happier period for itself and us than early spring. It comes while there are no intensely gayer flowers against it, to put it out of countenance in the way that the sun outshines the morning brightness of the waning winter moon ; while its richest foliage is developed in those yet early days when every springing leaf, like the dove’s green olive-branch of old, is a sight to gladden waiting eyes. Auriculas in the course of this month begin to unfold their hearts, with an exquisite freshness about all young growth, a snowy whiteness in the mealed varieties and on the tender leaves of some green-foliaged ones a sprinkling of a yellow meal that stands beaded on the curly edges like a dew of gold dust. Gradually, as the plants awake, they may receive a little more water, unless the weather be frosty, but should not be kept wetter yet than the compost was at repotting time. Afford the plants plenty of fresh air whenever the weather permits, avoiding any exposure of young growth to cutting winds, violent rains, or such a murderous thing as hail. The special work for February among Auriculas is top-dressing., an operation which cultivators have always thought one of great importance. It consists in a surface-enrichment of the soil, and the materials for it vary among growers, even as their composts do. For my own plants I have used various mixtures, but generally one part rich unctuous loam, one part leaf-mould, and two parts decayed sheep or cow-manure mellowed under shelter. To make room for the top-dressing, the surface soil is removed for an inch or so, very great care being taken not to break any roots. The fibres are soon sensible of the new soil, and indeed will ascend perpendicularly into it, and run along the top. Many offsets and suckers, which were not ready for removal in the autumn, will be found to have prepared themselves during winter, while apparently doing even less than nothing by losing size. Rooted or 30 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ February, not, take them off, if they have a neck. They may be struck readily in pots not filled with earth within an inch or two of the rim, and covered with a piece of glass. I use no sand about them, and do not like sand ; where any quantity of it lies together in the soil, it seems to have a way of being closer and wetter than the surrounding earth ; and I do not think Auriculas, at any rate, care for it under such conditions. The presence of air in the soil is conducive to root-action, and indeed vital to root-life. Hence how roots will revel in the open crock-work in the bottom of the pots ! How they rise to the surface of well-stirred soil 1 How they flourish round the sides of clean, porous pots ! How they bristle with white fur as they strike across some hollow space within ! — it may be where a -wooden label has been removed. In days when I was collecting Auriculas — and I am a collector still, though it is mainly from among seedlings now — how well I remember noticing the underground differences between plants from various growers ! Here, for instance, would be a stuffy, pounded compost, a mere mincemeat, and not lacking sand. Boots would not stay in the ball, but struggling to the sides, wound round and round, lean white wanderers after something lacking. Other plants would come with roots so matted into every cubic inch of compost that the fibres were like those of grass for multitude and intricacy. It was a great lesson. I see that in the last number of the Florist, my friend Mr. Dean, whose heart is with all manner of Primulas, from a Primrose on the river’s brim to Smiling Beauty at the National Auricula Show, is at my side, with a strange thing in Auriculas, the unshaded or Self Alpine.” With genuine admiration of the flower, and touch of pleading in his words, he asks us what we think of this, and he introduces it as a claimant for rank and title among Alpine Auriculas. The flower comes before us with a broad enough distinction, but it is a rather awkward one, for it makes the flower an Alpine, with the very first and prettiest property of the Alpine left out. For it is not a mere benighted Northern idea that the “ Alpine ” shall be a flower of shaded ground-colours, but it is a leading property universally recognised among florists. So is the Golden Eye, and flowers possess¬ ing these properties will always take high precedence of those with pale eyes, or those nondescript new comers the Self Alpines. Beautiful they are, and cannot fail to be ; but to me, they have the look of dark piercing eyes, of an intensity that is almost fierce ; and I see no such loveliness in them as I find in the true Alpine, with all its tender, sweet expressiveness of softly-shaded petal, and the beauty of the golden centre. This class in its strict integrity forms a very lovely contrast to the Self proper, the consort of the edged classes. The Self, with its densely-mealed centre, must not trespass upon the shadings of the Alpine, nor the Alpine appropriate the pure ground-colours of the Self. Intermixture and confusion among them, in so far as they are floiist flowers, are to be deprecated. If there be Self Alpines, why not also Alpine Selfs, and a host of perplexing half-breeds ? Were I a grower of Alpines, I would admit none to the I 1877. ] THE AURICULA. — CHAPTER X. 31 rank of show varieties but the one legitimate and not necessarily limited class of golden centres and heavily-shaded petals. With the close of the election lists is given below a summary of votes that each variety has received. — F. D. Horner, Kirkhy Malzear'd, Ripon. Mr. J. CocKROFT, Ovenden, Halifax. Green-edged. Loigli’a Colonel Taylor. Booth’s Freedom. Litton’s Imperator. Page’s Champion. Pollitt’s Standard of Eng¬ land. Moor’s Jubilee. Grey-edged. Kay’s Alex. Meiklejohn. Lancashire’s Lancashire Hero. Kenyon’s Ringleader. Headly’s Geo. Lightbody. Sykes’ Complete. Fletcher’s Ne Plus Ultra. White-edged. Ashworth’s Regular. Heap’s Smiling Beauty. Hep worth’s True Briton. Summerscales’ Catharina. Taylor’s Favourite. Selfs. Netherwood’s Othello. Pohlman’s Ellen Lancaster. Redmayne’s Metropolitan. Whitaker’s True Blue. Pohlman’s Garibaldi. Lightbody’s Meteor Flag. Alpines. Fair Rosamond. Conspicua. King of the Alps. Favourite. Fair Ellen. Rising Sun. Mr. William Taylor, Middleton, Manchester. Green-edged. Leigh’s Colonel Taylor. Booth’s Freedom. Litton’s Imperator. Ashton’s Prince of Wales. Beeston’s Apollo. OKver’s Lady Wilbraham. Grey- edged. Headly’s Geo. Lightbody. Lancashire’s Lancashire Hero. Walker’s Geo. Levick. Kay’s Alex. Meiklejohn. Lightbody’s R. Trail. Sykes’ Complete. White-edged. Heap’s Smiling Beauty. Hepworth’s True Briton. Ashworth’s Regular. Lee’s Bright Venus. Taylor’s Favourite. Lord Chancellor. Selfs. Hay’s Apollo. Lightbody’s Lord Clyde. Pohlman’s Garibaldi. Lightbody’s Meteor Flag. Clegg’s Blue Bonnet. Campbell’s Lord of Lome. The subjoined list shows the number of votes given to each variety in the 26 lists published in Chapter VIII. (1876, p. 274), Chapter IX. (1877, p. 10), and Chapter X. (1877, p. 31) : — White-edged. Votes. Heap’s Smiling Beauty . 26 Hepworth’s True Briton . 23 Ashworth’s Regular . 17 Taylor’s Glory ... ... ... ... 15 Summerscales’ Catharina... ... ... 11 Lee’s Bright Venus ... ... ... 14 Taylor’s Favourite ... ... ... 9 Cheetham’s Countess of Wilton ... ... 5 Smith’s Ne Plus LRtra ... ... ... 5 Smith’s Anne Smith ... ... ... 5 Lee’s Earl Grosvenor ... ... ... 4 Walker’s John Simonite . 3 Wright’s Emma . 2 Campbell’s Robert Burns ... ... 2 Ashton’s Bonnie Lass ... ... ... 2 Headly’s Arabella ... ... ... 2 Trail’s Beauty . 1 Lightbody’s Sophia Dumaresque... ... 1 Lightbody’s Miss Lightbody . 1 Lightbody’s Robert Trail . 1 Trail’s White Rival . 1 Turner’s Omega . 1 Lord Chancellor . 1 Selfs. Votes. Netherwood’s Othello . . 19 Campbell’s Pizarro ... ... ... 18 Spalding’s Blackbird ... ... ... 15 Pohlman’s Garibaldi ... ... ... 14 Turner’s Charles J. Perry ... ... 13 Lightbody’s Meteor Flag ... ... ... 12 Martin’s Mrs. Sturrock ... ... ... 9 Pohlman’s Ellen Lancaster ... ... 9 Kay’s Topsy ... ... ... ... 6 Campbell’s Duke of Argyll ... ... 6 Campbell’s Lord of Lome ... ... 6 Lightbody’s Lord Clyde ... ... ... 6 Spalding’s Metropolitan ... ... ... 5 Whitaker’s True Blue ... ... ... 4 Lightbody’s William Lightbody... ... 3 Headly’s Petronella ... ... ... 2 Kay’s Jupiter ... ... ... ... 2 Hay’s Apollo . 2 Berry’s Lord Primate ... ... ... 1 Smith’s Garland ... ... ... ... 1 Smith’s Formosa ... ... ... ... 1 Clegg’s Blue Bonnot ... ... ... 1 Redmayne’s Metropolitan . 1 32 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ February, Gkeen-edged. Leigh’s Colonel Taylor ... Booth’s Freedom ... Litton’s Imperator Ashton’s Prince of Wales... Trail’s Anna Trail’s Prince of Greens ... Page’s Champion ... Beeston’s Apollo . Headly’s Alderman Wisbey Oliver’s Lovely Ann Campbell’s Lord Palmerston Howard’s Lord Nelson ... Hep worth’s Robin Hood . . . Trail’s General Neill Pollitt’s Standard of England Hudson’s Apollo ... Campbell’s Admiral Napier Pollitt’s Highland Boy ... Dickson’s Duke of Wellington Smith’s Lycurgus . Oliver’s Lady Wilbraham Moore’s Jubilee . Votes. .. 26 .. 22 .. 19 .. 14 .. 14 .. 13 .. 13 .. 9 .. 5 .. 3 .. 3 .. 2 .. 2 .. 2 .. 2 .. 1 .. 1 .. 1 .. 1 .. 1 .. 1 .. 1 Grey-edged. Headly’s George Lightbody Lancashire’s Lancashire Hero ... Sykes’ Complete ... Kay’s Alexander Meiklejohn Walker’s George Levick ... Headly’s Alderman Charles E. Brown Kenyon’s Ringleader Lightbody’s Robert Trail Smith’s General Bolivar ... Cunningham’s John Waterston ... Waterhouse’s Conqueror of Europe Lightbody’s Richard Headly Read’s Czai’* . Read’s Dr. Horner . Grimes’ Privateer . Fletcher’s Ne Plus Ultra... Headly’s Stapleford Hero Lightbody’s Unique Jeffreys’ Sir H. Havelock Lightbody’s Sir W. Peel . Dickson’s Duke of Cambridge ... Fletcher’s Mary Ann . Votes. .. 26 .. 26 .. 18 .. 16 ... 10 ... 9 ... 9 ... 8 4 4 3 3 3 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 FIGS— NEGEO LAKGO AND LAMBTON SEEDLING. fOAN fully endorse and confirm all that Mr. Bust says at page 8 as to the excellence of the Negro Largo Fig, when cultivated in a small state, ? either in pots or planted out, having tried it both ways for the last two years. Along with the Negro Largo I last year grew several plants of a seedling Fig I got from Mr. Hunter, of Lambton Castle, two or three years ago ; and now having grown it by the side of the Negro Largo, I have no hesitation in saying that, to my mind, the seedling is the best fig of the two. Many gentlemen saw it growing here last summer, and some who had resided in Italy, and were well acquainted with Figs, tasted it, and pronounced it delicious in flavour, and as compared with Negro Largo, superior. I hope, if spared, to send samples to some of the Royal Horticultural Society’s meetings during the coming season, and I trust that Mr. Hunter will soon be able to give it to the public, and put it into the hands of Fig-growers generally, who I am sure will find it as great a boon as was the Negro Largo, of which I have not one word to say in disparagement. — John Clark, Studley Royal. THE CULTUKE OF WALL FEUITS. Chapter VIH. — The Peach and Nectarine {Continued). HE stage at which we have now arrived in the education of these trees, is that in which they should begin to give a fair return for the time and labour expended on them, by a liberal supply of fruit. When I say liberal, I mean, however, that the supply must be proportioned to the strength of Horner" and “Czar" are in these lists, I believe, one and the same flower, viz., “Dr. ♦ho « u n arisen through a plant of “ Dr. Horner ” being exhibited by pure accident under the name “Czar, which belongs to a different seedling.— F. D. H. 1877.] THE CULTURE OF WALL-FRUITS. - CHAPTER VIII. 33 tlie tree, for as I have already hinted, the operator has in the regulation of the fruit-crop a powerful means of regulating the healthy performance of all the functions of the trees. Thus, supposing a tree at this stage, or a year or two further advanced, to be of a very vigorous habit, and to show a tendency to strong development of growth, more than double the number of fruit may be taken from it than from a tree of weaker constitution and more limited growth. But unfortunately these strong-growing specimens do not always set and carry on a sufficient amount of fruit to act as a sufficient check upon the growth, and hence the only natural resort is root-pruning. Years ago, but it is hoped not now, the check necessary to induce fertility was sought in the free use of the knife — in cutting out, that is, all luxuriant wood at the winter pruning. A greater mistake could not be made, as experience teaches that in the case of healthy trees a strong development of luxuriant growth invariably follows a too free use of the knife. This remark applies equally to all wall fruit-trees in common ; but the Peach and Nectarine especially should be subjected as little as possible to the action of the knife, as they are very impatient of it, and wherever it is necessary to remove a branch of any size, it should be done during the dormant season, and the cut made clean and painted over with white-lead. Now, the prevention of the necessity for this extreme knife-work is the great object of what we generally style summer pinching-back and summer pruning. This is mostly done with the finger and thumb, and, therefore, as our trees ad¬ vance in growth, and the fruit-crop is not sufficient to produce the necessary check upon the growth, all luxuriant shoots which commence early to indicate their unfruitful nature by a free development of lateral shoots, should be at once stopped at one of the lowest laterals, and the lateral shoot trained on as a con¬ tinuation of the main shoot. These shoots, which generally perfect their growth during the best part of our seasons, are often more healthy than, and equally fruitful with, those shoots which, starting early, did not develop laterals ; but this must not be construed too literally, because later on in years, as the trees become more developed in size, it often becomes necessary to cut many of them out altogether, and if this is done during the growing season, no injury will result, but the sap which they would have attracted to themselves by their free growth, will thus be diverted to the weaker bearing shoots. The suggestion which I made when treating of the early training of young trees, to train out all side-shoots from the main radiating stems on the upper side of the branches, cannot always be rigidly adhered to when the trees have advanced in the season’s growth, because unavoidable vacancies will often occur ; but in the early part of the growing season, when disbudding commences, the operator may often by foresight anticipate such vacancies, and train-in extra shoots from the lower side of the main branches in order to supply them. At the same time, the principle of confining the shoots laid in to the upper side of the branches is a good one, and will be found to greatly facilitate an operation which, in pro¬ gress of time, becomes unavoidable. There is a tendency in the lowest branches 34 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ February, to die off, or to become so weakly as to be useless for fruit-bearing purposes ; and in such cases the removal of these branches becomes a matter of necessity, and their place must be kept furnished by an annual lowering of the upper ones, so as always to keep the centre of the tree open. This is imperative, for if the centre shoots, to which all the strength of the trees naturally tend, are not kept in check, the lower shoots will inevitably perish sooner than they otherwise need do ; and this is far better and more efficiently prevented by lowering the branches from the centre, than, by a too free use of the knife in the centre of the trees, which is sometimes resorted to as a remedy. Merely pinching back the strong growth during the growing season, is not enough in this advanced stage, owing to the tendency of the sap to flow most freely into the more vertical shoots, and hence the necessary restriction is best attained by frequently lowering the branches in training, for so long as the tree maintains a reasonable degree of vitality, it will always make its strongest growth at the centre, thus furnishing a continuation of branches to be brought down to take the place of the lower worn-out and ej^ete branches, which have lost the power of attracting a sufficient amount of sap to preserve themselves in a profitable, fruit-bearing condition. This process, when carefully carried out, will not materially interfere with the symmetrical proportions of the tree for some years ; but even if it did, symmetry, after all, is not the great desideratum ; but a reasonable quantity of fruit, not all crowded together on a few branches at the upper part of the walls, but equally distributed as far as may be possible over most of the surface. In old trees, symmetrical training must be made subserviant to utility. — John Cox, Bedleaf. CYCAS NOEMANBYANA. fN this new Australian Cycad we have a welcome addition to a group of ex¬ ceedingly interesting plants, which as yet scarcely enjoy the popularity to ? which their variety, their beauty, and the remarkable persistency of their leaves entitle them. The present subject is fitted for greenhouse cultivation. The leaves are pinnately divided, with a dorsally compressed petiole, having both faces angular, and these covered with furfuraceous down, a prominent ridge being carried up the face of the furfuraceous rachis. The outline of the lamina is oblong-ovate, the segments numerous, contiguous, linear, about 6 in. long and ^ in. wide, very sharp-pointed, almost spiny, slightly narrowed and decurrent at the base, glabrous on the upper surface. It has been recently imported from New South Wales by Mr. Bull, and Dr. Mueller is sponsor for the name. Our figure (see opposite page) is from Mr. Bull’s Catalogue. — T. Moore. ALPINE AUEICULAS. HE Alpine Auriculas are deserving of every encouragement, for they are very beautiful objects in the spring-time, and even when they are out of flower, their distinct, white-powdered leaves form a beautiful edging. Wo have a long edging here, 9 in. wide and some 150 ft. long, at the back of 1877.] ALPINE AURICULAS 35 Cycas Noemanbyana. our Apple cordon border, and it is always very much admired when in flower. The variety is a very dark one having a yellowish centre, and is very distinct-looking, which is owing, perhaps, chiefly to the large quantity of one kind. It is very hardy, and has stood in the same place for six years. It gets an occasional top¬ dressing with ashes, for along-side of it runs a little alley which is ashed every year. 1 36 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ February, I have often wondered why these hardy Auriculas are not more grown. No doubt they like a heavy soil, which it seems we have, to their heart’s content, for it would be impossible to see a row of Auriculas more healthy and happy-like. All success to the Auricula revival. — H. Knight, Floors Castle. NEW FORMS OF PRIMULA CORTUSOIDES AMCENA. (Peimula Sieboldii of Moeeen). ^Though there are many beautiful forms of hardy PnrwwZa, yet I think P. Gortusoides amcena excels them all ; it is so free and so bright, so elegant in character, and on the whole, so easily managed. It is not, therefore, to be greatly wondered at that it should be so much sought after for house and garden decoration. The charming variety called lilacina has so much individu¬ ality of character, and such delicate beauty, as to give its difference from airojena almost a specific value. The white grandijlora, with its snowy disc and rosy reverse, is quite distinct ; while the pure white self-form alba is also distinct, but as yet sadly in need of substance. I have often wondered that more has not been done in the way of crossing these beautiful forms. With the exception of lilacina and grandijlora., they seed very sparingly, but three years ago I was led to think something might be done in the way of fertilising the flowers with a view of securing seed, and with the ulterior aim of gaining new varieties. It is worthy of remark that Mr. James Allen, of Shepton Mallet, a well-known amateur florist, quite unknown to me, also engaged in the same work, about the same time, and we were both suc¬ cessful in raising a batch of seedlings showing considerable diversity of character. From an inspection of flowers sent to me on two or three occasions by Mr. Allen, I have been led to think he has secured some most desirable varieties ; but owing to domestic affliction, and the constant demands of a large business, he has not been able to give his interesting progeny all the attention they deserve. In regard to my own seedlings, which received good attention, I am bound to observe that though I obtained several of the type of lilicina., I have not yet obtained one better than it ; but as far as amoena is concerned, I had seedlings certainly deeper in colour, one of them of a very rich hue, and with the seg¬ ments handsomely fringed ; this was awarded a first-class certificate of merit by the Floral Committee of the Eoyal Horticultural Society, under the name of laciniata. This is the only one of the type that came fine in character the first time of flowering, but some others are very promising, and may be finer when they come to bloom this coming spring. A fine variety, named grandijlora maxima., also received a first-class certificate at one of the exhibitions of the Eoyal Aquarium at Westminster, because of its large size and fine substance. Some seedling flowers of this character had pretty, fimbriated edges, but the blossoms were under-sized. They may, perhaps, come larger with another season’s growth. I am also hopeful that this next spring will show improvements on alba., not so much in the direction of a greater purity of colour or larger size, vw J .L .Macfaj’lane del. Om o II ; 1’ r e b o R s . i-r... ,,„ 1877. ] SALVIA SPLENDENS. 37 as in the important point of substance ; this is a great desideratum, for the somewhat loose and flabby character of the flowers of alha^ greatly detracts from its value. Last season I effected crosses with some of the best of the new types, but pro¬ bably owing to the dry season, but little seed was secured. I hope, however, to be more successful by-and-by, for I made a selection of twelve of the most promising forms, including the two already named, and when* they are in flower it is my intention to submit them to the notice of the Eoyal Horticultural Society, exhibiting at the same time illustrations of the four original types.— Richard Dean, Ealing^ W. THE TKEBONS ONION. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. ’ RES-BON ?” Yes, certainly ! This is the very best of Onions for certain purposes, and so is rightly named “ Tres-bon.” It is a French Onion — not a new variety, but one which is little known or grown in this country. ^ The seed is often singularly scarce and difficult to procure : this im¬ plying a somewhat tender or peculiar constitution. A little more notice may, how¬ ever, conduce to more attention being paid to seed-saving, and in this way to its becoming more plentiful. As a variety for sowing in autumn and transplanting in spring, it is superior to all others. So treated, the bulbs attain a very large size, and ripen-off well, rivalling in size and greatly resembling in appearance the imported Spanish Onions of the shops. It is not a late or sound-keeping variety, seldom lasting much beyond Christmas ; but in its season, there is no Onion of better quality, or any half so handsome. It may be described thus ; — Plant of free growth, bulbs very large, from 13 in. to 15 in. in circumference, and from 3 in. to 3-|- in. deep ; the shape obovate, the base broad and flat, so tapering to the neck ; skin pale straw-colour, peeling off readily, exposing the flesh, which is pale and somewhat soft, the coatings thick and fleshy, and of very mild and excellent quality. SALVIA SPLENDENS. ^OR autumn decoration this fine old showy and neglected plant is well worthy of cultivation. Nicely-grown plants in flower are exceedingly effective during the winter season, and the plant has much to recommend it besides. It is free-growing and soft-wooded, and propagates readily by means of cuttings, planted in the usual way, and placed in a little bottom-heat. To grow and flower it well, it should have a light rich soil, such as a compost of equal parts of loam, peat, and dung, with a little sand intermixed. Cuttings of the the young wood put in during May and June will make nice flowering plants by the autumn, but if large plants are required the cuttings should be inserted in April. As soon as the cuttings are rooted, they should be potted off, put into a frame, and kept rather close until they begin to make fresh roots, when air should bo 38 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ February, given freely. About the end of Juno they may be set out of doors — the earlier- struck cuttings sooner — in a sheltered situation, where they will get a few hours’ afternoon sun daily. To grow largo specimens, the plants must have two or three shifts into larger-sized pots, using a richer compost at each shift. Small plants will only require shifts into moderate-sized pots. On no account should the plants be allowed to get pot-bound or suffer for want of water, as in that case red-spider, to which they are subject, will attack them, and the foliage once spoiled, the beauty of the plant is gone. As the plants advance in growth, they should be kept neatly tied to stakes. They will do well out of doors until September, when they should be housed before they get injured by frost. In a few weeks they will present a gay and showy appearance, well worth the little trouble be^owed on them. We have had here some plants treated as above, which were found very useful. S. patens also does well under the same treatment, but does not continue so long in flower as S. splendens. Plants of Salvia splendens lifted carefully out of the borders early in September, potted, and put into frames, will continue in flower a long time, but they are not quite equal to plants grown specially in pots for autumn flowering. — M. Saul, Stourton. EUPHOKBIA JACQUINIiEFLOKA. N the Floeist, some months ago, Mr. Earley, when writing about this charming plant, threw out the hint that he possessed a secret concerning its culture worth one’s birthright, but he did not mention what it was on that occasion, and I and doubtless other readers have looked anxiously for this information. For the benefit of the craft, I now beg to ask Mr. Earley to enlighten us, as anything which may lead to the more successful cultivation of such a beautiful and useful winter-blooming plant, cannot fail to be acceptable. Un¬ doubtedly the best mode of growing it for furnishing cut blooms, is to plant it out in a suitable structure, as the racemes are considerably larger than those pro¬ duced by plants cultivated in pots. Some few years ago, when passing Mr. Weatherill’s market-growing establishment at Finchley, I noticed a quantity in a span-roofed house covered with bloom ; and no doubt so successful a grower found it useful. Now is the time to propogate a stock for next winter’s display. The tips of the young shoots strike readily in a good bottom-heat ; and they should be potted off singly when rooted, and shifted on as required. During the summer months they will do best in a close pit, syringing them morning and evening, and slightly shading them during the middle of the day, when the sun is very powerful. Stop them occasionally. As to soil, I think fibry loam, peat, and leaf-mould, with a good sprinkling of silver-sand and effective drainage, will answer admirably. Mr. Earley is ever ready to impart his knowledge to his brethren of the craft, so I hope he will excuse me for asking this question. — Geoege Potts, Jun., Sundridfje Park Gardens^ Bromley^ Kent. 1877 ARAUCAEIA GOLDIEAXA 30 AKAUCAEIA GOLDIE ANA. HIS fine greenhouse evergreen requires to be better known before its merits can be fully appreciated. That it is a distinct-looking and ornamental plant there can be no doubt. Mr. Williams, by whom it is offered for sale, and in compliment to whose collector, Mr. Goldie, it has been named, states 40 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ February, that it has the majestic habit of Araucaria Bulei^ while the foliage is of the awl- shaped character seen in that of A. elegans andJ.. CooJcii ; in short, it is described by him as being intermediate in character between A. Rulei and A. elegans^ but having pendulous branches. Some idea of the aspect of young plants may be formed from the accompanying figure. It is said to come from New Caledonia, but was, we believe, procured by Mr. Goldie from a nurseryman in New Zealand. — T. Moore. THE CARNATION AND PICOTEE. Chapter XIV. — Descriptions of the Best Varieties, Old and New {continued). {N continuation of the descriptive list of the best varieties of Carnations and Picotees, commenced at p. 16, I now come to the class of Crimson Bizarre Carnations Albion’s Pride, Gem, and Marshal Ney are varieties raised by the late Mr. Richard Headly, of Stapleford, near Cambridge, who was in life the very type of the fine old English gentleman, and ardent florist ; and whose loss will long be mourned by those who had the privilege of his intimacy. Each of these varieties is distinct in character, from the varying tints of colour and modes of distribution, but they possess in common the good properties of symmetrical form, stout substance, well-defined markings, and rich quality. They are also good growers, and deserve a place in the most select collections. Black Diamond. — Raised by the late Mr. John Haines, of Tipton, from Ely’s William Caxton. First bloomed in 1848. “ A strikingly fine variety, rich in texture and colours, good white, petal very smooth and well-shaped. I think it quite equal to Lord Milton, which it much resembles, as, brother-like, it should. A healthy grower.” This was my description in 1853, and despite some slight evidence of the effects of time, I am gratified to say it yet deserves, and will well repay, the attentions of the diligent cultivator. Captain Stott (Jackson). — One of the later productions of the late Mr. Jonathan Jack- son, of Deighton, near Huddersfield. Evidently, I should say, a seedling from Warrior (Slater), which it much resembles in its sluggish growth and general character, but a better flower, having a broader petal, and, therefore, a finer form. It also is somewhat earlier in flower. Warrior being late. When caught in its best dress it is not easily to be surpassed. Like all the varieties of harder growths and later habit of bloom, it should not be overpotted, and will be greatly advantaged by the shelter of a frame or other means of warding-off heavy drenching rains or cutting winds, in early spring. Eccentric Jack, Graceless Tom, Phidias, Rifleman, and The Lamplighter. — Five varieties, the production of Mr. Edmund Wood, of York, now for some time past lost to floriculture, but who, many years since, was my own well-beloved disciple. Each possesses properties of a very high order, and deserves the widest cultivation. Regarded as a whole, Eccentric Jack may perhaps be the better variety of the five,’ Lamplighter (because of its greater number and narrower centre petals) the worse, more especially as the latter is late in bloom ; but despite the high standard, even almost, as I have sometimes been told, to fastidiousness, of my requirements, I could not banish one from my collection. Grand Master (Schofield). — Described in the catalogues as “ beautifully marked ; very fine and from what I saw of it last season, I think the description well deserved. Isaac Wilkinson (Turner). — “ A flower of the largest size, smooth and well-marked with bright colours ; white good, and guard-petals broad and well-shaped. Unfortunately, the centre petals are narrow, and thus without the aid of a skilful dresser the flowers appear confused. When exhibited by Mr. Turner in 1872, it was regarded as the best of its class, and obtained a First-class Certificate from the Royal Horticultural Society, but it is now beaten undoubtedly by Mr. Simonite’s J. D. Hextall and John Simonite.” I am indebted to my friend, Mr. Douglas, of Loxford Hall Gardens, for the above description, not having grown this variety last season. A seedling, apparently from its grass, from South London (Wood), — a variety remarkable for its spindling growth, and its pale green colour. Jenny Lind (Puxley). — Taken all in all, this probably was the very best variety of this celebrated raiser, now with so many of the fidends of my younger floral days, gone to his rest. In 1853 I wrote of it : — “ The queen of the class. A flower more rich in its colours, and more distinct in its style of marking than any other grown. Added to this, it has a fine, broad, gently cupped petal, a good white, a smooth edge, and extra substance. One only 1877. ] THE CARNATION AND PICOTEE. — CHAPTER XIV. 41 drawback exists, — it is late. It is a stout grower, but very impatient of wet during the winter and spring months. Sent out in 1860.” Jenny has suffered from the effects of age, and does not now give to us the rich lustrous white which distinguished her in days of yore, but even yet she well deserves the little attentions, which, whether applied to or by the fairer part of the genus homo^ or to lovely flowers, give grace to beauty, and an additional zest to at¬ traction. As an illustration of what may be done to bring forward a late variety, Mr. Rudd writes me, “ I planted it (Jenny Lind) a fortnight before the general stock last season, giving it the advantage of a cold frame, and covering when the weather was cold and rough, with the result that I had flowers on the 4th of August, quite a week before the general stock.” J oiiN Harland (Adams).* — A fine flower, petal broad and smooth, outline good, and white extra. Short only of bizarre. Requires good generous growth, and to be freely disbudded. John Simonite (Simonite). — One of the grand productions of my old pupil and dear brother florist, Mr. Benjamin Simonite, of ShefiBeld. A Jenny Lind, from which it was a a seedling, in her best dress, without the “ one only drawback,” as it comes in, in the very height of the blooming season. Sent out last autumn. J. D. Hextale (Simonite). — Another of the grand productions of my fx’iend, named after the late Mr. Hextall, of Ashby de la Zouch, supposed to have been originated (as the mother-plant) from Jackson’s Captain Stott, set with pollen from an unnamed seedling. With me the finest C.B. in my collection last season. For form, substance, shape, and smoothness of petal, pure white, and rich definite markings, impossible to be surpassed. But that I have had some experience of the marvellous diversity of nature, and have implicit confidence in the carefulness of my friend, I should not have attributed its origin to Captain Stott, the grass and mode of growth being so singularly different. But seedling-raising is an admirable school for teaching humility, and opening the mind and heart to the limitless powers of the Infinite. Lord Goderich (Gill). — A very sweet variety. Not very large, but very refined, and admirably marked. The colours are very rich, though the bizarre is not so dark as in Lord Milton and others in the class. It is also very distinct. Being late in blooming, it should have the advantage of a frame or the warmest situation in the garden to bring it forward for the general bloom. Habit of grass dwarf. Raised by Mr. Holmes, parish clerk of Wakefield, from seed taken from Lord Pollington (Ely), S.B., and by him presented to Mr. Gill. Sent out in 1855. Lord Milton (Ely). — Raised from William Caxton C.B., and sent out in 1836. This is one of the oldest flowers of this list, and one of the best varieties of, in his day, a very celebrated raiser. For many years this variety held an undisputed pre-eminence in the Midlands and the South, though, for reasons unknown to me, it was scarcely regarded with such favour in the North. Now, however. Lord Milton has many rivals and some superiors, though even yet he deserves the widest cultivation, despite an inclination to “ sport,” which age seems in no way to check. In its best character, indeed. Lord Milton leaves very little to desire, save it be size and a few more petals. It has a finely-shaped petal, which is gently cupped, of good substance, with smooth edges ; the white is good and clear, and the colours rich and refined, distributed in distinct and bold stripes. Habit compact. A good grower. Crude stimulants should be kept from this, and, in fact, from almost every Carnation grown. Lord Raglan (Bower). — Raised by Mr. Thomas Bower, of Bradford, from mixed seed, and sent out in 1864. An extra fine variety. Full sized, and full of rich, dense, well-dis¬ tributed colours, with a good white and admirably-shaped petal, stout substance, and smooth edges, it will be a favourite wherever grown. Being so high in colour, it must not be subjected to forcing growth, as like all varieties redolent of colour, it is liable to “ run.” Habit of grass dwarf and compact, but a free grower when once the spring start has been made. Mr. Rudd writes : — “ It is best grown in small pots in pure turfy loam, with the addition of a small quantity of charcoal and leaf-mould. Also protect from heavy rains.” Warrior (Slater). — A fine old variety, raised by Mr. John Slater, of Gheetham Hill, and sent out by the late Mr. James Schofield, of Mossley — who bought the stock to save it from destruction — in 1852. In good character, save only an additional breadth to the petal, this variety leaves little to be desired ; but it is one which requires the whole art of the florist, as it is a very sluggish grower, and late in its period of bloom. But grown in a frame in toe early spring months, kept from heavy rains and crude stimulating diet, and not over¬ potted, it will well repay the attention. Colours rich and deep, well-defined, and plenty of them. William Murray (Adams).*— A full-sized flower, with a broad, smooth petal, and plenty of colour ; the best of the Newcastle crimson bizarres. Must not have a stimulating compost. Will carry three blooms. E 42 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ February, Pink and Purple Bizarre Carnations. Falconbridge (May). — “The best flower of its class. Large in size, of good form, smooth, and good substance. Colours rich, regularly distributed and strongly contrasted. White, very pure. First bloomed in 1848, sent out in 1851. A good grower.” This was my description in 1853, and though I had to remark upon its loss of brilliancy in 1875, then due, as I. believe, to the thinness and poverty of my soil, another season’s experience warrants my return to the opinion originally expressed. Fanny (Dodwell). — A pretty variety, noticeable for its excellent habit, and finely formed petal. Colours light, but distinct, and well distributed. First bloomed in 1853. Fanny shows now the effects of age in a diminished stamina, but is yet worthy of a place in even a small collection. James Taylor (Gibbons). — A newly-introduced variety, raised in the neighbourhood of Nottingham, and I assume irom Taylor’s Princess, which it much resembles in habit of flower and grass. Has a well-shaped, broad petal, continued to the crown ; plenty of colour, of a peculiar pink or salmon tint, well contrasted with the bizarre, and regular in its delineation. White clear, substance fair, with smooth edges. The habit is not to bo compared with the variety above described, as the petal is flat, not gently cupped. Sarah Payne (Ward). — “ Well-named after a lady, for it is, indeed, delicacy itself. For refined texture and colour it leaves nothing to be desired. Well done, and at its best, it would grace the finest stand of flowers imagination could paint. The petal is of medium breadth, very smooth, and gently cupped ; colours delicate, sometimes deficient of bizarre, but always rich ; white exquisite. Rather a delicate grower. Originated at Woolwich, by its raiser, a well-known veteran florist, from Puxley’s Prince Albert, crossed with Count Pauline. First bloomed in 1845, sent out in 1847.” This was my description of 1853, and it is pleasant to know, though its raiser has long gone to his rest, the variety yet lives, and fully supports its old renown. In its way, I believe it will never be surpassed. Satisfaction (Bower).* — Pale in its colours, but in form, habit, and rich lustrous white, a perfect gem. Worthy a place in any collection. A fine grower. Not yet sent out. — E. S. Dodwell. - Erratum. — Page 17. In the description of Lord Napier S.B., the raiser is stated to have been the late Mr. James Taylor, of Sneinton. I find this is an error, as it was raised by Mr. William Taylor, of Middleton, Lancashire. — E. S. D. COKDON TRAINING OF WALL FRUIT-TREES. «N planting Fruit-trees against a wall, the first question to be decided should ^ o largest amount of fruit can be procured in a given space, — z.e., how the wall can be covered with fruit-bearing wood in the shortest time. V I am of opinion that the mode of training represented in the accompanying sketch is calculated to produce that result much sooner than the mode of train¬ ing geneially adopted in our gardens. It is no new system, having been practised by our neighbours in France for perhaps centuries. In 1856 I saw a wall coveied with Peach and Nectarine trees trained in this way in the gardens of 1877. ] POLYGONUM CUSPIDATUM AS A TOWN PLANT. 43 Baron Eothschild, at Ferrieres ; these had been planted only a few years pre¬ viously — three or four years at the most — and quite covered the wall ; they were also carrying a much heavier crop of fruit than I have ever seen, in the same space, from trees trained upon the fan system. Moreover, trees trained in this way may be planted at 3 ft. apart, which will admit of a much larger number, and consequently greater variety, in a given space. In this way, now that we have several good early and late Peaches and Nectarines added to our lists, the season of these fruits may be considerably pro¬ longed, which is one object of considerable importance. In addition to the greater variety to be thus secured, the wall may be covered in half the time it would take upon the old system, which, in very many cases, is an advantage scarcely to be overrated, as all new gardens must of necessity be deficient for the first two or three years of a supply of fruit for the dessert. Any other kinds of fruit-trees may, no doubt, be trained in this manner with like favourable results. This mode of planting facilitates the registration of the names of the varieties grown, as a running list is all that is necessary ; and being planted at short, regular intervals, any blanks would be at once detected, which might not be so easily done in the cases of trees occupying greater space. The plan has been adopted at the Eoyal Horticultural Society’s Gardens at Chiswick, both under glass, and against the outside walls. The former lot was planted several years since ; the latter only about three years, and the wall is now nearly covered with good fruit-bearing trees. — George Eyles, 44 Eardley Crescent^ South Remington, POLYGONUM CUSPIDATUM AS A TOWN PLANT. fN the preface to many a small treatise, the author states that “ a great want has long been felt ” for the article which he, in his benevolence, has at length provided ; and following this precedent, I cannot do better than ^ introduce Polygonum cuspidatum, alias P. Sieboldii, as a plant to fill a gap of no ordinary dimensions. The plant belongs to a family of troublesome weeds, of which the Fat Hen (used as a spinach) is a notable member ; and from a certain family likeness, this plant, like the Fat Hen, may perhaps some day do duty as a vegetable at the board of the poor man. Its chief merits at present, however, consist in its being, like Jonah’s Gourd, a plant of rapid growth, and in its taking kindly to town life. It grows at least 10 ft. high, and the rapidity with which it runs up may be seen, when I state that one recently planted against a cottage in a narrow street in Manchester, attained from 6 ft. to 7 ft. in height ; and being a bold herbaceous plant, with a branching stem spotted with purple, and well furnished with leaves all the way up, it has no mean or common aspect. When rising in spring, which it does in May, the succulent shoots are crisp and tender, and rather larger than fair-sized Asparagus. The leaf is heart-shaped, with a narrowed point and truncate base, and handsome. It is thoroughly hardy, and one of its peculiarities is that its underground stems spread widely in search E 2 44 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGHST. [ February, of fresh pasture. I saw it putting in an appearance in a garden adjoining the one in which it was planted, having travelled by the wall and under a flag-stone 3 ft. wide, thereby showing its aptitude for town-life ; and whilst the London Nettle [Coleus] requires to be kept indoors in the dingy windows of the City, this Polygonum will do the work of the Nettle without any protection. In a box or barrel containing half a cubic foot of earth, placed against a wall, or planted out in the paved yard, it will live and do well ; and as it dies down every year, it escapes half the dirt that would have fallen upon its foliage had it been an evergreen shrub. It is, moreover, strong enough to stand alone, and does not need the town-ladder nor even a stake to keep it upright. The Lupinus polypliyllus is one of our earliest spring plants, and has been extensively cultivated for agricultural purposes. Who knows but that this fast¬ growing, early herb may some day rival the Lupine as early food for ewes and lambs. As a weed, it has much of the character of colt’s-foot and couch-grass, and therefore had better be cautiously let into possession, lest it might be difficult to get it out root and branch, for it pushes its underground stems in all directions. Whilst the rich can carry their love of grass and flowers from the country into town-life, and be able to maintain parks and squares where their children can walk under shady trees, and disport themselves on the green sward, the poor people are not deficient in taste for the same luxuries, and would gladly hail a hardy perennial herbaceous plant that would take up its abode with them, and thrive among bricks and mortar, and every year get abler for its work. The Polygomim cuspidatum will do all this, and thereby supply a want that has long been felt. — A. Foesyth, Salford. VILLA GAKDENING FOE FEBEUAEY. «ENGTHENING- days and finer weather, with the same mildness of character that has hitherto prevailed, are leading on to a state of activity in the garden which for several reasons we could wish was less apparent. Wintry weather will surely come, and the young growths can scarcely ^ escape being cut back. The Cold Greenhouse : Hitherto frost has not given any uneasiness^ to the gardener, but there is a peculiar danger attending on the mild weather ; it tends to excite many of the plants too quickly into growth. Large-flowered Pelar¬ goniums cut back in September have been growing rapidly all the winter, and in some cases are already showing their blooming-buds ; it is well to pinch them back, and then keep the plants rather dry at the roots till they start into growth again ; they could thus be kept quiet for a month to come. Fuchsim are pushing into growth also, therefore keep them as dry as possible. When Cinerarias are getting affected with green-fly, wash them over on a fine day with Fowler’s Insecticide. Give plenty of air ; a dry, cool atmosphere will keep things in their places, for we may get severe weather in February and March. Pick off all decaying leaves, and water carefully, and as sparingly as possible. The Warm Greenhouse : This should now be getting gay, but fire-heat should be applied only very sparingly. Make the most of the solar-heat, by shutting up the house between three and four o’clock, putting on a little fire-heat at seven 1877. ] VILLA GAEDENING FOR FEBRUARY. 45 or eight o clock, when it threatens to be frosty or cold. A gentle syringing may be given at midday, when it is sunny. It is a great mistake to keep the atmo¬ sphere of a plant-house too arid and dry ; at the same time, syringing must not he resorted to when frost impends. Such plants as Azaleas, Hyacinths, Camellias, Cinerarias, &c., coming into flower may have a little weak manure-water twice 01 thrice a week,^ or some guanb-water, at the rate of about one ounce to a gallon of water. Occasional fumigations with i;obacco-smoke or washings with soft-soap and warm water will be required to keep down greenfly, especially on Cinerarias, Mimulus, Pelargoniums, &c. Any soft- wooded plants of which it maybe desirable to obtain an increase by cuttings, such as Fuchsias, Petunias, Verbenas, and Heliotropes, should be placed in the warmest part of the greenhouse towards the end of the month to encourage the production of young growths suitable for making cuttings from. Frames : Give plenty of air on all favourable occasions, but close the frames before it gets dark, as fog and mist generate damp, and the plants need to be kept as dry as possible. Many hardy plants, such as Violets, Polyanthuses. Primroses, Hepaticas, Anemone fulgens, Scillas, &c., are now coming into flower and they need to be carefully watered early in the day in fine weather, and have’ plenty of air. A mild, gentle shower or genial rain will do them good, but not enough to damage the flowers. Single and double Primroses are charming objects when in flower in pots, protected in a cold frame. Carnations, Picotees, Pinks, and Cloves in pots, waiting to be planted out in spring, are benefited by gently stirring the surface-soil, and cutting away decaying leaves. Kitchen Garden : Fruit-trees should now be pruned, and hVall-trees trained and the shoots nailed in position. The blossom-buds are fast beginning to swell, and the work shoula be put in hand at once. Currants and Gooseberries, as well as Pasp- berries, may be pruned, and the soil about them dug and made neat for spring. There are signs that the rainy season is changing to finer weather, and thus sowing claims attention. As soon as possible. Early Peas, Longpod Beans, Radishes, and Onions may be sown. A little discretion is necessary in selecting the varieties, for in a small garden dwarf-growing types only should be grown. Radishes (Wood’s Early Frame) should be sown on a warm border, and the seed covered with a little litter as a protection from birds till it begins to grow ; then the litter should be taken off by day, and put on again at night. Seeds of Onions should be sown earlier than is generally the case ; the plants get well started into growth before drought sets in. ^ Rhubai b and Seakale can be blanched or forced by putting pots or any such things over the roots, and covering them with a coating of dung. If Ehu- barb-roots be lifted and placed under a greenhouse stage, with some soil and litter about them, gatherings can be had much earlier than from the open ground. Flowei Garden : Shrubbery-borders should be dug ov er, and a neat appearance given to them. Garden-edgings, such as Box, Thrift, Grass, Daisies, &c., should be trimmed, and mended where there are vacancies. This work should be done as soon as it can be taken in hand. Shrubs should be pruned, and climbers made neat by cutting away all decaying growths, and thinning the leading shoots. Thorn and privet-hedges should be clipped. The Herbaceous mixed border s ould be carefully forked over, and a top-dressing of leaf-mould and dung applied. The dung and leaves required for making-up a warm bed for a frame should now be got together, and well shaken-up, ready for use in the early part of March. Such a bed is most useful ; it comes in handy for raising tender annuals and bedding plants from seed ; for hardening off young-struck cuttings of Fuchsias, Dahlias, Heliotropes, &c. ; and finally, makes a summer cucumber or Vielon-bed. Beds of spring-flowering plants should have the surface stirred, and 46 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ February, empty beds should be dug over and the soil thrown up rough, till the time for planting comes round. — D. GAKDEN GOSSIP. proposal to hold a Southern Show of the National Auricula Society which we briefly alluded on a former occasion, is being freely responded to, fand upwards of £60 has been promised towards the necessary prizes and expenses. A slight further augmentation of this amount is needed to permit of the work being efficiently done, and it is to be hoped that some admii’ers of the Auricula who have not yet subscribed may be induced to do so by the prospect of an attractive show. The sub-committee, consisting of Messrs. 0. Turner, J. Douglas, and E. S. Dodwell, appointed to draft a schedule of prizes, has completed its work, and the prize list was to be submitted on the 31st ult. to the general committee for approval. The prizes will, we believe, amount to not less than sixty guineas, and will include classes for collections of fifties, twelves, sixes, fours, and pairs, with a long list for single specimens in classes, and in addition, prizes for Polyanthuses. The show will be held at the Crystal Palace on April 24, and as the northern show of the society is to be held at Manchester on the 27th of the same month, there is every reason to expect a display of these flowers such as old florists even have rarely, if ever, known. As we have already stated, the honorary secretary is Mr. E. S. Dodwell, 11 Chatham Terrace, Larkhall Rise, Clapham, S.W., who will be glad to hear at an early date from intending exhibitors or subscribers. - ^HE year 1876 was not very prolific in new kinds of vegetables, the principal additions being among Peas and Potatos. It is as well always to order a few of the new kinds for trial, especially of Potatos, and then one can judge for oneself which kinds are best adapted for the particular locality. Mr. Powell recom¬ mends the following as a few good old things, that should not be overlooked when the seed- list is made up ; — Of Early Potatos, Lee's Improved Ashleaf and Myatfs Ashleaf, which can bo depended on. Sangster's No. 1 and Early Empei'or are among the best early white Peas, with Little Gem as an early marrow. Dr. Maclean^ Advancer, and Champion of England will always keep their place for the main crops. In Cauliflowers, Lenormand's, Erfurt, Walcheren, and Veitch’s Autumn are all good kinds. Among Celery, Incomparable Dwarf White and Manchester lied are among the best. The Goutte Lettuce is a nice little hardy variety, of good flavour, and suitable for either winter or summer use ; and the old Brown and White Cos should not be forgotten. - ®HE summer shade afforded by Street Avenues is most grateful, and the aspect of thoroughfares thus furnished most picturesque. Wherever prac¬ ticable they should be introduced, and no planting season should be passed without some progress being made in this respect. They should everywhere be encouraged, but it should always be under careful supervision, so that proper trees may be selected, and proper means taken to ensure their success. The trees found most suitable for London are the Plane, the Lombardy Poplar, the new Canadian Poplar, the Sycamore, &c., the Plane (^Platanus acerifolia') being by far the best, though it is less suitable in the north. In some towns the Siberian Elm does well ; in Birmingham the new fast-growing form of Canadian Poplar, Populus canadensis nova, is found to do well — all which shows that observation and forethought are required before making a choice. In all cases a mixture of trees should be avoided. In America, where street planting is almost universal, and where every person is free to follow his own inclinations, this liberty, it appears, is sometimes asserted in the selec¬ tion and planting of the wayside trees, and while one person plants one kind, his neighbour will plant another, till the whole becomes a heterogeneous assemblage of trees, instead of a stately avenue. The rule of uniformity as to the kind of tree planted, should be enforced, at least so far as any one street, or of corresponding lines of trees are concerned. - ^HE^beautiful Maple called in gardens Acer colchicum nihimm, has been determined to be identical with the A. Icetum of Meyer, from the Caucasus, and the A. pictmn of Thunberg, from Japan, which latter name takes precedence.. Professor Karl Koch adopts this view, which is confirmed by Mr. Hiern in Dr. Hooker’s Flora 1877. ] GAEDEN GOSSIP. 47 of British India (p. 696). Acer pictum has therefore naturally a wide range, extending from the Caucasus, through Persia and Kashmir to Bhotan, and thence eastward to China and Japan. - ^HE Album Benary (Ernst Senary, Erfurt) is a very useful series of coloured figures of vegetables, issued as a means of identifying the different varieties. The Album, which we presume is to be continued, consists of four numbers small folio size, each containing four chromo-lithographed plates, which are remark - ably well done by M. Severeyns, of Brussels. On each plate is a series of figures, reduced in size, but large enough for identification ; each is accompanied by a leaf of text, giving the names in Engli.sh, German, French, and Russian. The first plate is devoted to Cabbages, one-seventh the natural size, the varieties being large blood-red Dutch, earliest solid. blood-red Erfurt, very large early Schweinfurt, small early solid white Erfurt, white (sugar-loaf) Winnigstadt, and largest white Brunswick. Then follow savoys, kales, carrots, cabbage-lettuces, cucumbers, French beans, radishes, beets, various culinary roots, sugar-beets, mangolds, gourds, and onions. The plates will be very useful to seedsmen as illustrations of the seeds they sell, and to others, as a means of identifying the sorts they purchase. - '^The Fertilisation of Plants^ recently treated on by Mr. Darwin, in a volume published by Mr. Murray, is a subject of the highest interest for cultiva¬ tors ; and every one who can obtain the book should read Mr. Darwin’s account of his experiments, and of the inferences to be drawn from them. The work consists of twelve chapters, of which the first half form a record of experiments with different orders of plants, and the remainder treat on the means and effects of cross-fertilisation, and the habits of insects in relation thereto ; the concluding one giving the general results of the author’s observations, one of the most important of which is, that “ the mere act of crossing by itself does no good ; the good depends upon the individuals which are crossed differing slightly in constitution, owing to their progenitors having been subjected, during several generations, to slightly different conditions, or to what we may call, in our ignorance, spontaneous variation.” The book will well repay the most careful study. - ©NE of the most clianning of all the Spruces is the Abies Menziesii Parryana^ from the Colorado Mountains, of which some small examples may be seen in Mr. A. Waterer’s nursery at Knap Hill. Two very beautiful selected trees of this new Fir are growing in the garden of Professor C. S. Sargent, at Brookline, near Boston. These trees are from 7 to 8 feet in height, with the symmetrical growth of typical A. Menziesii, but specially remarkable for the bright blue glaucous hue of the entire plant, which as a blue is as bright and striking as is the green of the Knap Hill Cypress. The tree is, indeed, on account of its very pronounced glaucous hue, and its naturally symmetrical habit, one of the most lovely conifers that can bo imagined. - ^HE first number of the Journal des Poses (Paris : Coin), founded by M. S. Cochet, and edited by M. Camille Bernardin, is before us. It is to be issued monthly, each part illustrated by a coloured plate, that given with the January number being the Belle Lyonnaiso — a tea rose of premier vi&iie — from one of Mr. Macfarlane’s admirable drawings. The text consists of an address to rose-growers, and a chronicle of rose-gossip, followed by articles on the Knight of the Rose, the new roses of 1876, the rose-tree of a thousand years — a historical legend on the Rosa canina, a rose-fete at Grisy-Suisnes, the rose Belle Lyonnaise, the false roses, and a chronicle of general horti¬ culture. We look to its continuation -with much interest, as it is a genuine Rose Journal. - 0UE old correspondent, Mr. Wifjldon^ the gardener at Cossey Park, has lately been presented with a valuable purse of money by his employer. Lord Stafford, as a testimonial of respect for long service in his lordship’s family. It is always pleasing to hear of .such good-feeling existing between masters and servants, and we con¬ gratulate our con-espondcnt on his having for so long a period given satisfaction to so kind- hearted and appreciative an employer. - ^MONG the Special Exhibitions of the Royal Botanic Society duiing the present spring ]are included Messrs. Jackman and Son’s show of Clematises, com- 48 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ February, mencing on May 2nd ; Mr. Anthony Waterer’s show of Ehododendrons and American plants, commencing on June 1 ; and Messrs. Carter and Co.’s show of Flowering and Fine-foliage Plants, extending from June 27 to July 12. - 3It is well known that in some old garden soils Carrots cannot be grown successfully, on account of the presence of the wireworm. The Gardener mentions a case of this sort, in which part of the land was watered before sowing with diluted paraffin oil — two wine-glasses full of the oil to four gallons of water — and on this portion a luxuriant crop of carrots was secured, whilst those sown on the unwatered portion failed as usual. This hint may be turned to account before cropping time. - ^HE Belgians have raised a new white double-flowered variety of the Sweet Violet, called Alha fragrantissima plena^ which is described as excelling all previously raised varieties of the double class, since the flowers are pure white, very double, and equally fragrant with those of the common sweet violet, and the plant blooms profusely, and forces well. It was raised from seed a few years ago in the neigh¬ bourhood of Ghent. - S^HEN the Coolcing of Beet-root is unskilfully done, it often happens that the colour is lost or spoiled, and this is generally thought to be due to the roots having been either cut or bruised before they are put into the water. This? however, is not so, for if the roots are dropped into boiling water, all their beautiful colour will be retained, whether the skin be broken or not. This fact has been abundantly proved, and is one which housewives should make a note of. - 0F the now well-known Horticultural Directory (171 Fleet Street), the edition for 1877 has recently been issued. The utility of such a desk-book, when kept fairly posted-up, as this is, is indisputable. — jr. G. Wilkins, Esq., of the Poplars, Leyton, died on December 9, aged 39 years, after having been in ill-health since August last. He was a great sup¬ porter of flower-shows, by reason of his love for plants, as his contributions to and prize-taking at all the leading Metropolitan exhibitions during the last ten years give evi¬ dence. His collection of plants, which ultimately became so famous under the experienced management of Mr. Ward, was begun some thirteen years since. - James Andrews, the well-known floral artist, died on December 17, aged 75 years. For many years, commencing in 1849, Mr. Andrews’s talents as an artist were successfully engaged in the illustration of the Florist. - |Hr. Peter Stewart, gardener at the Glen, Peeblesshire, died at Lugton, near Dalkeith, on December 22, at the early age of 33, leaving a widow and young family. He was a native of Dalkeith, and served in the Duke of Buccleuch’s gardens there for about twelve years. His career has been a comparatively short one, but few young gardeners have displayed more energy and ability, or been more successful, for under his able management the gardens at the Glen have become one of the most noteworthy places in the south of Scotland. - Alfred Smee, Esq., F.E.S., died on January 11. He was a keen horticulturist, and his garden at Wallington was a perfect epitome of all depart¬ ments, useful and ornamental ; his collection of hardy fruit-trees was one of the largest of any private collector in this country ; and his garden experience was manifested in his richly illustrated work, entitled “ My Garden ” — a treasure-house of infoimation for amateur gardeners. Mr. Smee was for some time chairman of the Fruit Committee of thq Royal Horticultural Society, and also a member of Council. “f*' « -■ .r WiHIPiVliVfSi ip- X, .>V j ; . i'»- 4 * . / i--* ' ■ 'Jr. ^ • •■ f i tv. >. • V .. ■■ '‘%: > ■ V i?'.-' ; ^ll, w . ■?’ '■ ■»"v-. ■ ♦ ■•a ,^=- • •rfcs. -r. 5- ... '1^- V' . V r,'^, ?jv • -S' ■ • * **j.r ^’'‘ • 4», • Tf rri -S-V ^ , . f - ■■ ■■«' :VV' v7* .-.'r ^ ■ ■ •’^♦.v' - r* , ■^• 1.^ ■ *'■•.- - ' • ' p I \ li f I f I t t f ( 1 I i \ I / i \ 'i [ I I D T *! ■* no-i-Tiner^ iri Rose Magna Charta. Chrcir\o. ^ev-rreyn-i. BrasstB « i i I 1S77. ] CULTURE OF DOUBLE PRIMULAS. 49 ROSE MAGNA CHARTA. • • ' • • • WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. HIS is a new English-raised Eose, possessing all the qualities essential to,an exhibition flower of the first r^nk. Being at the same time^ remarkably fi'ee in growth, hardy in constitution, and prolific of blossoms, the siib- ject of the present illustration must be regarded as a most valuable addition to that class of Eoses which will thrive and give abundance of flowers under circumstances adverse to Eose-culture, and can hardly fail to become a favourite with all growers of Eoses. Indeed, it cannot be too highly recom¬ mended to the rose-lovers who reside in the neighbourhood of large towns, or in bleak or otherwise unfavourable situations. Mr. Paul describes the colour of the flowers as a clear pink suffused with carmine, very bright and striking ; and they are of immense size, full, and of finely cupped form. The habit is erect, and the foliage is of a deep glossy green, ver}' large, and forming a beautiful contrast with the flowers. This variety was raised from seed at the Waltham Cross Nurseries, whence it w'as introduced to the public b}'- Messrs. William Paul and Son in the spring of 187G. It has received the award of a First-class Certificate both from the Eoyal Horticultural Society and the Eoyal Botanic Society, and is in every way a most charming and effective flower. — M. 1 I. '.1 . CULTURE : OF ^ppUBLE PRIMULAS. _ r. ■ t ^ • * . IT ONSIDEEABLE difficulty is often. -experienced in the’ propagation and S) culture of the forms of Double Primula sinensis^ and hence the few remarks which follow^ may prove of interest to some of your readers. In the first place, I have found these plants to root readily at any time during the spring, by taking off with each small crown, a heel or piece of the old stem, potting them singly and rather firmly in small pots (60s) in a light porous soil, and giving a gentle watering to settle the soil, being careful not to let any get into the heart of the cuttings. Thus prepared, they are plunged under a hand-light in a bottom-heat of from 70'^ to 75°, shaded from the sun and kept close, excepting so far as giving a little ventilation to the hand-light, but closing again before the house is opened to admit the external air. When they have made a few roots, gradually harden them off ; and they are then ready for shifting into 48-size pots, using in the compost rather more than half of fibrous loam, the remainder being leaf-soil, with a good dash of sharp sand, and good drainage being given. Pot the plants rather firmly, keeping the bottom leaves on a level with the surface of the soil. Then remove them to a cold frame with a north aspect, as they delight in a cool shady position, and give abundance of air both night and da}', shifting them into larger pots as may be required. About the beginning of October they should be removed into their winter quarters, placing them on a stage, so as to get a circulation of air between them. 3rd series. — X. F 50 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, As the days short(?n give a little fire-heat, so as to keep the temperature' at 50° at night, with a rise of about 5° during the day. When they begin to bloom (which they will do early in November), give weak manure-water at every alternate watering, being careful to keep the heart of the plants dry. When there is a great demand for flowers, it is best to keep the bloom off some of the plants, and give them an extra shift. By this means, they can readily be had in bloom for six months. The reader should be reminded that when any of the leaves show signs of decay, it is much the best way to get hold of the leaf-stalk close to the stem and take it clean off ; for if it is picked, as is usually the case, the part left will damp back to the stem, and soon affect the whole plant, which will gradually lose its fresh appearance and go off at the collar. — D. Burke, llie Kitchen Gardens^ Burleigh. Mr. Gilbert adds in a note ; — “ The above is from the pen of one of the young gardeners here, who has grown Double Primulas, from what were single crowns last spring, to what are now plants three feet across.” Some blooms sent at the same time were first-rate in quality, of full size, as double as balsams, and finely fimbriated at the edge. VINES AND VINE-(3ULTUKE. Chapter XII. — Diseases and Injuries, and their Remedies {continued), ^l^rl^UNGUS on the Boots. — This is not of very frequent occurrence, yet it is of W very serious import where it does find a footing, and should be carefully guarded against. The difficulty of dealing with it is the want of know¬ ledge of its existence until the vines are perhaps killed through its effects. Tlie healthy vines of one season may in the next, when in the fullest vigour., sud¬ denly droop and flag and die, when upon examination of the roots it is found that they are completely covered with small white threads, these being the mycelium, or spawn of some fungus which has generated from decaying vegetable matter that has got into the border. The most fertile agents arc bits of wood, or the broken stems or branches of trees, or it may be the stump of a vine that has been cut down and left in the border. Therefore, these should all be rigidly excluded in the formation of vine-borders. If once fungus is introduced, its growth is very swift, and the fine threads of the mycelium will soon permeate the whole border, and choke the action of the roots. Fungoid growth may also be introduced into the border through heavy top-dressings of leaves or stable- manure. Where its presence is detected, every bit of soil in the least affected should be taken out, and the roots of the vines washed, sprinkling the remainder with quick-lime, so as to destroy every vestige of its existence. Mildew. — This is a fungoid growth upon the young leaves and fruit of the Vine, and was not known in this country until the year 1847, when an account of it was given by Mr. Tucker, of Margate, where it was first observed. Hence it received the name Oidiuni Tuckeri. In America, however, it had been known 1877. ] VINES AND VINE-CULTURE. - CHAPTER XII. Ol to exist for many years previously, although, singularly enough, the American varieties of Grapes are but little affected by it. In this country, it has caused great destruction amongst Grapes, both in vineries and in the open air, and in Vine-growing countries the entire season’s crop is frequently destroyed by its agency. This mildew appears to the naked eye like a little white powder only, resting on the leaves, &c. ; but by the aid of the magnifying-glass, it is seen to be a true vegetable parasitical growth, as we see it represented by the accompanying figure. It is a most insidious enemy, and requires extreme watchfulness, so as to observe its very earliest appearance, in order to check its progress. It vegetates very rapidly ; from a small speck, it will in the course of a few days spread over an entire house, and if not arrested in its growth,, its roots will have penetrated Mildew of Grapes and Oidium Tuciceri, with conidia germinating (x 200 dia.). so deeply into the tissues of the affected parts as completely to destroy them. The mildew itself may be arrested and killed, but its effects are left, the skin or cuticle of the berry being blackened and injured beyond recovery. It seems to render the berry incapable of distending further, so that it soon splits open, and is of course ruined. The tissues of the leaves are also injured in much the same way. As to the causes of the Vine mildew, they are, as in most other diseases, very difficult to trace. It is sufficient that it does exist. Certain atmospherical con¬ ditions are favourable to its development, as to that of all fungoid growth. There is no more fertile source than cold, damp, sunless weather, with a stagnant atmosphere, and especially if this is succeeded by bright sunshine. On Vines grown in the open air, there is seldom a season that they are not affected to some extent, but frequently it occurs so late in the season as practically to do but little harm. The prevention of mildew ought, if it be possible, to be the chief endeavour of all Vine-growers ; and in houses or vineries it may be almost prevented. In the open air, it is much more difficult to grapple with. As a stagnant atmosphere F 2 52 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, is favourable to its development, it naturally follows that one of the surest preventives is air — plenty of sweet fresh air — and this can be secured to a great extent b}?^ proper ventilation, and a judicious use of the heating apparatus to set the air in motion. Where this is not available, a drier atmosphere should be maintained in the house during cold damp weather, avoiding all unnecessary syringing or damping. To arrest or destroy the mildew where it has once obtained a footing many and varied means have been adopted and recommended. The most effective, indeed the only truly effective agent, is sulphur, or certain compounds of which sulphur forms the major part. It is chiefly in regard to the method of application that the distinction between the various agents is made. Firstly, let it be noted that the sulphur must not he ignited in any iray^ that Avould to a certainty not only destroy the mildew, but also the vines themselves. We have seen vines so treated and so destroyed. As a preventive or safeguard, it is not a bad method to give the hot-water pipes — not a flue — a washing or coating over with the flowers of sulphur mixed with water, the gentle sulphurous fumes thereby arising being destructive to the mildew. Another very, effectual method is to throw sulphur on lumps of freshly slaked lime, which will have a like result. The most effectual and simplest remedy of all is to dust flowers of sulphur all over the vines. This will, in the course of a few days, destroy it, when the sulphur should be imme¬ diately washed off by a forcible syringing with clear rain-water, otherwise the grapes, being covered with the sulphur, would be spoiled. Many varieties of sulphurators for the application of this sulphur have been introduced, but the simplest of all is the ordinary penny pepper-box. Various liquid compositions, which are applied with the syringe, have also been introduced, and are effectual in its destruction, such as the Gishurst compound, and others, but as these frequently contain a proportion of oleaginous matter, their use for the destruction of mildew on grapes is not to be recommended. Quite recently, a .very effectual and excellent liquid application for its destruction has been introduced by Mr. Speed, of Chats worth, which is stated to be altogether innocuous, and immediate in its effects. It is applied with the syringe, and immediately washed off. — A. F. Barron. WIRING GARDEN WALLS. )OUR recommendation of screws, as described at page 24, is not, I suppose, intended as introducing anything new, but merely as a notice of a neat and useful contrivance for the purpose. No doubt need be entertained on this y matter. They have been in use on walls and otherwise for peaches, climbers, vines, &c., under glass before I was a cultivator; I therefore do not know how long they may have been acting as wire -tighteners. I have used them here, as well as raidisseurs, for that purpose ; but those I have known in years gone by, were always liable to become rusted, so that the threads gave -way. , [The screws in quest ion are galvanised, and should therefore last for a considerable 1877.] ALPINE AURICULAS. 53 time. — Ed.] If those which you recommend are proof against this evil, there can be no doubt of their value as being neater and more efficient than most other “ wire-tighteners ” which I have seen in use. — M. Temple, Impney ITall, ALPINE AURICULAS. ; S a grower of Alpine Auriculas for a period longer than I have grown their refined sisters, I have been interested in the remarks made about them in recent numbers of the Florist. It was not until last year that I was ^ made aware that such flowers as those of which Mercury (Turner) is the type, would be subject to disqualification if exhibited at a show held by the National Auricula Society. It may be a fact that to the eye of a trained florist — that is, one who has been educated to require certain properties, and who looks for them in a flower that has received its most perfect development, to the exclusion of other properties that would perhaps be more admired by the ordinary amateur — the shaded Alpines are the most beautiful, and that this shading is the “ first and prettiest property of the Alpine,” but I demur to the statement “ that shaded ground-colours is a leading property universally recognised among florists.” It is a fact that by far the largest proportion of flowers shown in London are Selfs. Nearly all of them have been ^raised and sent out by Mr. C. Turner, of Slough ; and it follows naturally that if shaded flowers had been most admired, they would have been raised and sent out. Our great nurserymen and florists know what the public are most likely to purchase, and will invest their money and talents in that which will give the best return. I certainly consider it a national misfortune or calamity that the National Society should disqualify Self Alpines. At the London exhibitions the Self Alpines have been admired by many of our best amateurs and gardeners, and many of them have preferred these flowers to the very best green, grey, or white-edged Auriculas. I do not say they were right, but I could prove what I say, if necessary, by referring to the pages of our leading gardening papers. One whose name I could mention, and who stands very high as an editor and horticulturist, pointing to a Self Alpine in my own collection, said, “ How much more beautiful is that flower than these monstrosities, the green-edged Auriculas.” So much for being educated up to recognise certain properties. Alpine Auriculas still admit of much improvement, and as Mr. E. S. Dodwell truly says in the Florist (p. 41), “ seedling-raising is an admirable school for teaching humility, and opening the mind and heart to the limitless powers of the Infinite.” Why should we puny creatures limit that power by drawing narrow lines of demarcation ? I like freedom of action, and would not consent to be bound by prejudice, either northern or southern. All the Alpines I have as yet seen have green foliage, without any white powder, but here comes Mr. Knight, of Floors Castle (p. 34), with a row of one sort beautiful at all seasons by its mealy leaves, the flowers “ very dark,” with a yellow centre. Evidently, Mr. Knight requires educating in Auriculas ; he must 54 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ MARCH, liave here a Self of the true Auricula, hardy enough for a very cold district in the south of Scotland, and judging by the description, I think it is the same that t used to be grown at Ednam (about two miles from Mr. Knight’s), when I was a boy, under the name of Dustj/ M iller. I have seen clumps of it at least a couple of yards in circumference. We used to part the clumps in the spring by cutting through them with a spade, and the divided portions grew luxuriantly in rich garden soil, and were very pretty when in flower. The great Auricula Show to be held at the Crystal Palace will be the means of eliciting some useful discussion on these and other matters. Shaded and self flowers will be shown side by side, for as the schedule admits both classes, the}’’ will each have to stand on their own merits ; and it will be very strange if both fanciers and the general public do not learn a useful lesson by the arrangement. It must be very gratifying to all true florists, north, south, east, and west, to see such a wide-spread interest in what one of our best professional gardeners called “ these grand old flowers.” In the days of pack-horses and stage coaches, there were great jealousies and much bitterness existing between the Northern and Southern growers, through a difference of opinion on some points. That is all over now, and whatever differences may exist, they are caused only by a desire to learn and to search for the truth. — J. Douglas, Loxford Ilford^ E. THE CAKNATION AND PICOTEE. Chapter XV. — Descriptions of the Best Varieties, Old and New {continued). TILL going forward with our descriptions of the best varieties of these flowers, we now come to the group called Purple Flake Carnations. Ajax (Hextall). — Origin unknown. First bloomed in 1870. Sent out in 1874. A large, full flower, with a well-marked and broad petal ; useful for the back row of the home stage, but rarely sufficiently refined for the purpose of the exhibitor. A good grower. Dr, Foster (Foster), — Raised at Todmorden, from a fine old useful variety (Jackson’s Squire Trow), which it follows, with some slight variations, in its habit of growth and colour, but is incomparably better in its white ground, which is perfection itself. Petal broad and smooth, slightly cupped (unlike the parent, which has a tendency to reflex), of full size, and a fine grower, it would be at the head of its class, but for one unfortunate defect, — its generally insufficient marking. Nevertheless, and despite this serious drawback, it is a variety of gi’eat excellence, and such as will please a taste refined to fastidiousness. Early in bloom. Earl of Stamford (Addis). — Raised at Wolverhampton, from the same parent as the above, it is yet very distinct in its character, generally coming with plenty of colour and very fairly distributed, but is rarely seen with the fine quality and white ground of Dr. Foster. It is, however, a good, useful variety, a good grower, and well deserves a place in the best collections. Sent out in 1850. An early bloomer. Esther (Dodwell). — A sport from Fanny, P.P.B. — that variety again being a seedling from a purple flake of the Squire Trow family. For some years after the sport, this variety well maintained the high place it took in its class, but now,'like Fanny, shows pal¬ pable signs of diminished stamina. It yet, however, deserves cultivation, for its fine form, finely foimed petal, good white and rich distinct markings. Being, like all seedlings of the Squire Trow breed, open and succulent in its habit of grass, it is especially liable to the attacks of green-fly, and must be watched to guard against the evils certain to result if such attacks be not promptly repelled. Earl of Wilton (Holland). — Another variety, unquestionably of the same family, but' generally rather too full of colour, therefore should never be subjected to stimulating growth. 1877. ] THE CARNATION AND PICOTEE. - CHAPTER XV. 55 Possesses a well-shaped petal, good fonii, and is fairly smooth. It also is a good grower. In cultivation, I believe, about twenty years. J UNO (Baildon). — Yet another of the same family, as clearly indicated by its habit, and open, flowing, succulent grass, though possibly not directly seeded from Squire Trow. A fine variety, having a well-formed petal with a clear, rich white, and well-dedned and well-distri¬ buted markings of bright purple. A good grower and early in bloom, therefore needs no hastening. Raised at Halifax. Sent out in 1858. James Douglas (Simonite). — One of the fine seedlings sent out last autumn by Mr. Simonite, of Sheffield. Raised from an unnamed seedling and Mayor of Nottingham, it combines the characteristics of that variety and Juno, above described. Like all Mr. Simonite’s varieties, it is especially distinguished for its high quality, and I have little doubt will be found a great acquisition. Lord Derby (Fletcher). — Good grower; good form; good petal, of fair substance, and smooth, this variety wants only a little more refinement to be very desirable, ])ut wanting that, I must say of it, as of Ajax, — useful only for the home stage. Raised at North Brierly, near Bradford. INIayor of Nottingham (Taylor). — Sent to mo by the late Mr. James Taylor, of Sneinton, neaj Nottingham, in the autumn of 1857, as a seedling, then first bloomed, for trial. Mr. Taylor was not certain of its origin, but I have little doubt it was a cross between Lord Byron (Taylor) and Squire Meynell, or some one of the varieties originated from Meynell. As a seedling it was superb, leaving little to bo attained, fine in form, stout in substance, distinct in the character of its markings, good white, good petal, and a good grower. Age has somewhat dimmed its beauties, judging from my experience of last season ; but it is yet one of the best six P.F.’s, and indispensable to the cultivator. Premier (Milwood). — Raised at Derby by my old gardener, Milwood, some time before he became my gardener. Said to be from a Scarlet Bizarre, and first bloomed in 1837. “ A very great favourite of mine, as I consider its Jiahit superior to any other of its class, being gently cupped and compact, moderately full, without being confused, and of fair size. When opening, the white appears clouded, but clears up as the bloom matures, when it well con¬ trasts with its lively and regular lilac-purple markings. It is an early bloomer, but remains a long time in flower. I have repeatedly shown blooms fourteen, sixteen, and eighteen days after showing colom\ The petal is broad, of good substance, and very smooth. Habit of grass narrow, reflexed and flowing, and of a very light green colour. Grows freely, though the grass is small, and enjoys a rich soil.” This was my description of 1853, and Premier yet deserves all then said. Squire Meynell (Brabbin). — “ Raised at Yoxall Wood Lane, in the neighbourhood of Burton-on-Trent, and first bloomed and shown (then as a seedling) twenty or twenty-one years since, it is a fine old variety, and worthy of cultivation every where where the Carnation is admired. It is still a very vigorous grower, rises to a good height, is full, of good size, first-rate in its white and regularity of colour — a dense purple when first opened, but changing as it ages to a beautifully clear lilac, — with a well-shaped broad and smooth petal ; such characteristics go a long way towards the realisation of the A 1 of the class, yet with all these merits, I can scarcely assign it that place. Wanting the ‘ gently cupped ’ petal, it must assuredly be less graceful than those rejoicing in that property. I long to see a flower which shall have the habit of Premier, with the rich colour and pure white of Meynell. If, too, their periods of flowering were blended, it would advantage both, one being an early variety and the other full late.” Again, I repeat my description of 1853, and again with the satisfaction of saying it is yet well deserved. I find, however, that Squire Trow, a variety to be next described, is doing duty extensively for Meynell in the North, plants of that variety having been sent to mo by no less than throe friends, as Meynell. Squire Trow (Jackson). — Raised at Stakenbridge from ' Elliott’s British Queen, P.F., and sent out in 1847. A very delightful flower ; white and colour especially lively, cheerful, and well contrasted ; the petal broad, smooth and well shaped, stout, and continued to the crown, giving it, for a reflxed or flat-petalled flower, a fine foim. Sometimes a little more colour would be desirable, and of course the habit described is not to be put into comparison with a duly cupped flower ; yet, nevertheless, it will not merely attract attention, but win regard wherever well grown. Grass short, a pale white-green, but gi'ows freely. Sporting Lass. — A sport from Ward’s Sarah Payne, P.P.B., sent to me by my friend Mr. George Rudd, and described as possessing all the good qualities of that fine old variety, save only that it is a purple flak®. True Blue (Taylor). — Another variety raised by the late Mr. James Taylor, of Sneinton, and a most desirable sort. Habit and form of petal and flower, white, colour and character of marking, very similar to Premier, a variety from which, during the summer months, I inferred it to have been originated, but my autumnal observation, and the longer acquaintance 56 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, thus obtained of its habit of growth and grass, incline me to the opinion that Lord Byron, P.F., a famous variety of the same raiser’s some twenty-five years ago, was its parent. Early in bloom, a good grower, and wants no forcing. A liberal use of small knobs of charcoal in the compost will no doubt be beneficial. First bloomed in 1865; sent out in 1868. — E. S. Dodwell. Croton trilobus. CROTON TRILOBUS AND ITS ALLIES. YEAR or two since tlie horticultural world was startled by the appearance of a distinct type of Croton — more correctly Codiceurn variegatum — having three-lobed or hastiforni leaves. There is perhaps no one amongst 4/ our favourite cultivated plants which varies to so great an extent as the Croton, the leaf-form and leaf-colouring to be found amongst them being almost endless, but the existence of so markedly distinct a form as that now referred to was not suspected. 1877. ] CROTON TRILOBU3 AND ITS ALLIES. 57 C. trilobus may be taken as a type of the series, the peculiar feature of which is that the leaves form, more or less constantly, a pair of basal lobes, not always equally developed, and thus become divided into three parts. The leaves are of considerable length — 1 ft. to 2 ft. long — with a wedge-shaped base, above which are two short lateral lobes, varying in length as well as in form, while the middle Ckoton Lord Cairns. lobe is much longer, narrowed in the lower portion and widening near the acute point. The colour is a deep green, spotted with yellow, the costa and some of the principal veins being of a deep golden-yellow. We are indebted to Mr. Bull, by whom it was sent out, for the accompanying figure. C. Disraeli belongs to the same group. The foliage is of the same three- lobed character, and “ the colouring is rich and varied. In the newer leaves 58 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, the midrib and margin are of a light-yellow, with the light-green blade blotched with the same colour. As the foliage becomes older, the yellow subsides to a bright orange-yellow, the marginal line becoming more defined, and the markings enlarged. In the mature leaves the margin is a bright scarlet, and the midrib is striped by a band of the same bright colour between two lines of a deep golden yellow, and the blotchings and markings a rich orange-yellow upon a deep green ground.” Messrs. Veitch and Sons state that they received it from A. H. C. Macafee, Esq., of Sydney, N.S.W. C. Lord Cairns is another of the same type, in which the leaves are of the same three -lobed form. It is said to be dwarfer in habit than the C. Disraeli. “ The colour is a bright but deep green, the midribs of the leaves a light yellow, the blades blotched and spotted with the same colour, the spots and blotches being irregularly scattered over tlie surface, and sometimes clustered towards the point of the leaf.” The accompanying figure of this variety is from the new Plant Catalogue of Messrs. Veitch and Sons, by whom this variety was sent out. C. Alberti is of the same group. “The middle and lateral veins are yellow, while a few yellow dots are scattered aberrantly here and there over the surface — this yellow colouring passing to red as it acquires age and exposure.” Another slightly different form is called C. trilolms Traveller. C. Bismarchi., though approaching this hastiferous group, is yet distinct. The leaves are almost panduriform or fiddle-shaped, with the broad end towards the base. “ The colour is a deep green, with a broad band of golden yellow along the costa, and yellow markings indicating the course of the lateral veins, in addition to which, a few slight yellow blotches are scattered over the surface.” — T. Moore. WINTER-FLOAVERING EUPATORIUMS. AVING for some years recognised these useful winter-flowering plants as among the specialities which are so much valued at a season when the demand for cut flowers, as well as flowering-plants, is very great, I can Y heartily endorse the statements at page 26. Those who are hard pressed in the way of variety for decorative purposes, especially if with limited means to meet the demand, will find these plants true gardeners’ friends. Enpatoriuin ripariiini I have not cultivated until this season, but from what I see of it, I have no doubt of its value. I .purchased a dozen plants in the autumn, which were pot-bound, but healthy. One-half of these I had shifted into larger pots with rich soil, and the other lot I left as they came from the nursery, giving liquid manure occasionally. The latter are, however, in general appearance, far short of .those which were shifted, and which. Having made plenty of fresh roots into the new soil, produce much larger flower-heads. E. ligustrinum has flowered freely since October, giving large supplies of cut flowers. A short time ago I counted the flower-heads open on some of the plants, and found that they numbered from 190 to over 200. They are pyra- 1877. ] PLUMS IN SUCCESSION FROM JULY TO NOVEMBER. 59 midal in form, not more than two and a half feet high, and are allowed to hang over the pots, flowering to the base. These plants had very indifferent treatment last spring, having lain some weeks behind a shed among cast-off Chrysan¬ themums. They were shaken out of the soil they were in, potted along with the Chrysanthemums very firmly, and otherwise treated like the latter. When they were taken under glass a good surfacing of horse-manure and loam was given. A number of young plants are now (February 7) coming into flower, and will make a good succession to the larger ones, which still promise to bo useful for weeks to come. — M. Temple, Im^ney Hall. PLU]\IS IN SUCCESSION FEOM JULY TO NOVEMBER. lAVING had the good-luck to be able to supply a large establishment with Plums successively, without the aid of glass, and that for three months, with scarcely a blank for either dessert or culinary purposes, during the last three seasons, I have thought that a description of the different sorts, with their situations on the walls, or as standards, might prove interesting to some of your readers. It will, no doubt, appear strange to those who live much farther south, and in what may be thought a more suitable climate, that fruit of this description should succeed and ripen so far north as lat. 57*40, and that “even ” on a wall with a north aspect, while many sorts fruit freely on standards. I may, however, state that the situation is a sheltered one on the southern shores of the Moray Firth, about four miles from it as the crow flies, and about 80 feet above sea-level. The soil consists of a deep, black, sandy loam, resting on a bluish sandy clay. The garden site is well above hoar-frost level. These are favourable points, to begin with. But much of my success is attributable to root-lifting and keeping these organs near the surface, "which enables the fruit to ripen with higher flavour, and the wood and buds with greater certainty. The first in importance for its early ripening is Rivers’s Early Purple, a round, small-sized Plum, which, when grown on a wall and well ripened, carries a bloom upon it like a well-finished Black Hamburgh Grape. It is commonly ripe here about the first week of August, on a wall with an eastern aspect. Although it is regarded as a kitchen fruit only, it nevertheless makes a good appearance on the table, and when perfectly ripe is a fair dessert fruit. Next in appearance and early ripening is Early ProUjic. This very much resembles the former sort, in time of ripening, size, and colour ; it is, however, very distinct from its relative, being a poor and scrubby-growing tree, and a bad bearer. These two sorts are said to have been raised from the Early Orleans. A rather remarkable result occurred with me in raising seedlings which I may here relate. A double-kerneled stone of the Early Purple Plum produced two healthy plants, which were both grown and fruited. One of these very much resembles its parent, the Early Purple, in all its stages ; while the other partakes more of the character of the Early Prolific in leaf and growth, the fruit, however, having more the appearance GO THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, as to colour and shape of the Orleans, and being about as late in ripening. There was no attempt in this instance at fertilisation, and it serves to show the tendency that Plums have to sport back to sorts they originally sprang from. I am, however, digressing, .and resume by naming Columbia as a third, in suc¬ cession amongst the early-ripening fruits. This is an American sort of large size, not unlike Pond’s seedling, not so high in colour and inferior in quality, valuable, however, on account of its time of ripening, and as a culinary fruit. It has, moreover, the good quality of being a free bearer. These three sorts are on east aspects. There are several trees of the Early Purple as standards, and the fruit of these is ripe by the time that on the wall is over. Next in succession comes the Orleans^ on walls of east and west aspects, with several of the same as espaliers and standards, and there are some trees on walls of north aspect, which, ho«vever do not ripen until the end of October. Those above named have been sufficient to keep up a supply of fruit in the situations in which they are grown, until the Green Gage is ripe, and at that stage the difficulty is over for a time, as other varieties follow in quick succession. Drop cTOr^ a small-fruited Green Gage, is the first ripe ; and is followed by the common sort on south walls ; and these, again, by those on walls of east and west aspect, of which there are eighteen large trees. The following sorts are grown against walls with the aspects marked, and ripen here much in the order in which they are named ; — Cloth of Gold^ E. ; Jefferson^ S., E., and W. aspects ; Kirhe's^ S. ; Goliath^ W. ; Violette Ilative^ espa¬ liers ; Washington^ espaliers; Jefferson^ espaliers and standards ; Victoria^W and W., and standards ; Guthrie’s Gage^ standards and espaliers ; Coe’s Golden Drop^ E. and W. aspects ; White Magnum Bonum^ S. and E. aspects, and, as standards ; Mitchelson’ s^ standards ; Shrojishire Damson^ standards ; Wldte Bullace^ standards ; Boyal Hcitive^ W. ; Late Blue Gage^ E. ; Fotheringharn., E. ; Gisborne’s Seedling^ standards ; Caledonia^ standards ; St. Martin’s Qgietsche.^ E. ; Ickivorth Imperatrice., W. ; Webster’s Golden Gage., E. and W. aspects ; Heine Claude de Bavay., S. ; and Gordon Castle Green Gage., three weeks later than the common sort, on S. and E. aspects and standards. In addition to the above-named sorts, there are about two dozen seedling Plums, ripening through the different seasons, and several as late as the end of October and beginning of November ; also a number of sorts, seedlings of my own, and care¬ fully fertilised, which have not yet been thoroughly proved. — J. Webster, The Gardens., Gordon Castle. CHIMONANTHUS FRAGKANS AND JASMINUM NUDIFLORUM. (^iHE past mild and very wet winter seems to have suited these plants well. They are in great beauty at present. They should be grown everywhere in company, as Jasmine suggests sweetness, and the Jasmmum nudiflorumXs scentless, while the Chimonanthus has fragrance enough for itself and the (^■(<) w ‘ TTV ■ . *> . ..*‘v> •*' •■ ■ ♦ •«»« ir /-r. '■'■ ±-- •.-*-. ■: ■ ' i*'- m y •> • '• \. t ■/ ? 3 r *j '' ■' ■ ' ■•'-.M ■‘\ ■ • *••■'•,:■ j';:- •< >* .< »»v ? ■■¥ f • ♦ - •\ 4 r. 'W T A J . > • V ■ . %. J I < ' \ y « r.' •* it-, ■ V •f s 1 ■ i.u 1 Ainiral Cccilc- . Pears : P. Beurrc cle 1877. ] PEARS : AMIRAL CKCILE AND BEUREE DE JONGIIE. Gl Jasmine also. In cutting the Jasmine for using in vases, &c., a few sprigs or even single flowers of the Chimonanthus mixed in with it sweetens an entire room, however large. In every garden, large or small, room should be found for one or more of each of these eaidy-flowering, most useful plants. They do well and flower profusely backed up against stables, piggeries, or other outbuildings, or against cottage or other walls ; and the best mode of treating them, so as to make a fine display when in flower, and also afford plenty of branchlets for cuttings, is to train on the leading shoots, and allow a full crop of laterals to depend from them, until after they have flowered, when they may be closely cut off, thus pruning the plant and procuring the flowers at the same time. — D. T. Fish. PEARS: AMIRAL CECILE AND BEURRE DE JONDHE. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. 6|^UR plate represents two little-known winter pears, of excellent quality — so good indeed, that they may, with propriety, be added to any collection in which they do not already exist. ^ Fig. 1, Amiral Oecile (Boisbunel). — This fine Pear, which is of Continental origin, and is comparatively new, fruited for the first time some five years ago in the gardens of the Royal Horticultural Society, at Chiswick, where it is much esteemed. It begins to ripen shortly after Christmas, and continues in use until the end of Januaiy. For a Pear ripening at that season there are few to equal it, the flesh being as melting and juicy as any Pear in the month of October, and of an exceedingly rich and luscious character. It may be thus described : — Fruit rather below medium-size, roundish or oblate, a good deal flattened at the e3^e, which is wide and open. The skin is dull green, changing to a reddish-lemon colour as it ripens, with patches of russet round the eye and stalk. The stalk is short, the flesh is very buttery and melting, slightly tinged with pink, extremely rich and luscious. The tree forms naturally a handsome pyramid ; it succeeds well on the quince, and is an abundant bearer. Fig. 2, Beurre DE Jonghe (Gambier). — This is another comparatively new pear, dedicated to M. de Jonghe, of Brussels : a late one also, and one of very great excellence. The Rev. G. Kemp first submitted examples of it to the Fruit Committee in 1875, when it was unanimously awarded a first-class certificate. It is a pear that seems well suited to the climate of this country, which very many of the Belgian pears are not. The fruit is of medium size, of a true pyriform shape, very regular and even, tapering to the stalk, which is short and fleshy, inserted a little on one side, and always having the appearance of having been broken off. The eye is small and open, nearly level with the surface of the fruit. The flesh is greenish yellow, very buttery and melting, with a fine rich flavour, and slightly perfumed. This fine Pear ripens during the month of January, and is equal in flavour to the best of the earlier varieties. It is a valuable acquisition, and ought to be in every collection. — B. G2 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, THE PHYLLOXERA AND ITS DESTRUCTION. JCCORDING to the published reports, it is to M. Dumas, the permanent secretary of the French Academy of Sciences, that the credit is due for suggesting the employment of the alkaline sulpho-carbonates of potassium and sodium and those of barium and calcium, other remedies which had been tried were either without effect on the Plnjlloxera^ or in destroying it also destroyed or damaged the Vine. The sulpho-carbonates, which were carefully studied by the great Swedish chemist Berzelius, are obtained by combining the alkaline monosulphides with the bisulphide of carbon, are either liquid or solid, and emit a powerful odour of sulphuretted hydrogen and bisulphide of carbon. The alkaline sulpho-carbonates in the solid state are of a beautiful reddish-yellow colour and deliquescent, but are not easily obtainable in that condition ; the sulpho-carbonate of barium can be easily procured, however, in a solid state, and presents the appearance of a yellow powder, but little soluble in water. The sulpho-carbonates decompose under the influence of carbonic acid, forming a carbonate, and evolving sulphu¬ retted hydrogen and bisulphide of carbon. These two latter substances are gradually liberated, and as they have a very powerful effect on the Phylloxera^ one can understand that the sulpho-carbonate, placed in the ground, may prove, by its slow decomposition, a powerful insecticide. In the case of the sulpho- carbonate of potassium, over and above its toxic effect, it has a direct invigorating influence upon the Vine, as the carbonate of potassium is an excellent manure. The employment of the sulpho-carbonates as a means for the destruction of the Phylloxera was suggested to M. Dumas by the clearly-recognised need that there was of some substance that would evaporate less quickly than the bisulphide of carbon ; he saw that it was desirable to apply the insecticides in some com¬ bination which would fix them and only allow them to evaporate gradually, so that their action might continue long enough in any one place to infect with their vapours all the surrounding soil. But the task of eradicating the Phylloxera has by no means been accomplished by the mere discovery of the value for the purpose of these substances ; there is the further difficult}^ of applying them to the Vine in cultivation. One thing seems very certain, that in order to render the sulpho-carbonates practically efficacious in killing the insect, it is necessary to use water as the vehicle by which they may be brought to all the underground parts of the plant, and that the best time of year for their application is the winter or early spring, when the earth is still moist and the quantity of water necessary to be brought on to the ground by artificial means is consequently less. Mixed with lime in the proportion of tAvo to one, these sulpho-carbonates give a poAvder Avhich can be spread over the ground before the heavy rains, — that is, betAveen October and March, and which will probably prove itself very efficacious. The conclusion arrived at is that the efficacy of the sulpho-carbonates is 1877.] THE AURICULA. - CHAPTER XI. 03 proved, and all tliat is necessary is to bring to perfection tlieir employment in agriculture, wliieli can only be accomplished by the intelligence and practical knowledge of the vine-grower. Mr. W. Thomson has suggested that as some of the American foxy Vines are said to resist the attacks of the insect, it would, if this could be verified, be worth while to grow such Vines as Vitis Lahrusca^ V. rotundifulia^ or any other that might be found to be proof against the attacks of the pest, and inarch our own Vines on them. One certain way of getting at the truth, he remarks, would be to plant a Vine infested with the insect in a box, or pot, with one or other of these American Vines, and in the course of one season the proof either way would be absolute. As one means of doing battle with the Phjlloxera^ M. Sabate has devised, and exhibited before the Horticultural Society of France, a gauntlet of chain armour to be used for removing the bark of the Vines, and with it the winter eggs of the pest. Though the sulpho-carbonates have proved useful when applied to the roots, it is necessary to attack the enemy in the cracks of the bark also, and for this purpose the rods are drawn through the gloved hand, with the result of removing the old bark and the insects. The glove might also be used for the removal of moss from the bark of trees, and for other purposes. THE AURICULA. Chapter XI. — The Rising Bloom. — Spring Treatment of Old Plants and Seedlings. ,^HEN I was a boy (which begins to look something like “ Auld lang ^ ' syne,” now that I have hardly a birthday left on the green and sunny side of “ forty year it was a pleasant illusion to turn pocket-money into exceeding small change. There was so much of it — quite a fortune if you only went by weight, and did not think of the colour. But there is much that we do not care to have in a diffused and voluminous form. As horticulturists, we have not enjoyed our winter, with so very much water in it. We should have liked it stiffer, with here and there a spell of silvery frost, instead of that heavy equivalent, that “ small change ” in wind and water, which has proved so bulky and incommodious. Only once in this almost frostless winter have I seen the Auriculas frozen in their pots, and that but slightly for a day or two while they were fast asleep. The weather ever since has left it perfectly open to them to begin their spring life at any time, and of course, they have taken the very earliest opportunit}^, and are now decidedly forward. An early start is everything for the later sorts, among -which many of our best Auriculas are to be found. If stiff-petalled and slowly-opening varieties, which George IJghthodg and Lancashire Hero may represent, are long held back by a cold season, they will have a short and hurried bloom that shows signs of having missed the height of the season. As “ the cuckoo in June is out of tune,” so Auriculas in May make a poor G4 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March display : March and April are their best months. This plant, however, is not one to lose any of spring’s delights by any inattention of its own. When the days lengthen, by the time there is half an hour’s more daylight in the sky, the sensitive, expectant Auriculas have found it out. In growth grave, deliberate, and slow all the summer, brisker for a while in autumn, and all but suspended in winter, their spring life is in liveliest contrast to all the rest, so quick, intense, and powerful. It is an ever-fresh surprise, even to an old florist ; and must be a delight indeed to the beginner, who has wisely got his plants together at a quiet time, and brought them into bloom by his own management. There is far more real enjoyment in thus commencing the culture of a plant, than there can be in cheaply buying it in flower, when all the skill and credit — honours not trans¬ ferable — remain another’s. Auriculas are rapidly increasing every day in interest and beauty. The thick-set winter habit is all laid by, and the rich young foliage, as it spreads, shows the full distinctiveness of character in each variety. In many plants the trusses will be rising up, and every day will disclose the floral secret of some full heart which we have been longing to know. Our fair favourite is a plant with an extensive wardrobe. It has a separate leafy dress for all the seasons, and the loveliest and richest is that for spring. Every adornment which the plant possesses is put forth to honour and grace the bloom ; and as if in delicate acknowledgment of how much its other beauties set off this, the Auricula is never shown as a cut flower. Even varieties in which Nature has denied the gift of meal (and meal is to the Auricula what “ moss ” is to the Eose) contrive to powder their flower stems and buds, and to dash a spray of meal upon their “ guard-leaves,” f.e., the leaf, that rises -with the pips, bending tenderly over them in their infancy, as with the nurture of a folded wing, and afterwards heightening the beauty of the expanded bloom by standing up behind it. Much of the work with Auriculas in March consists in taking proper care, one way and another, of the foliage. It must be kept in the brightest health, or flowers in abundance, and of high quality, cannot be produced. Do not let it get drawn for want of light, or for want of air. Do not let it flag for want of water ; and here I may say. the plants may have sufficient to keep the soil quite moist, but never sodden. No nearer rule can be laid down. The plants must be watched. Every pot will have its own time, regulated by weather, soil, porosity, and the evaporative surfaces of the plant. A large, elephant-eared plant of Othello will take several waterings to one that a plant of dry habit like George Levick will require. If a plant, certainly wet enough, should droop in foliage as if wanting water, more water will only hasten its death. It must be turned out of the soil, when the neck will be found almost rotted through. Cut back to a sound place (if there is one), and strike under glass. In this way I have saved the veriest heads, with hardly a ring of neck to them. 1877. ] THE AURICULA. — CHAPTER XI. G5 The succulent foliage is very liable to snap, and therefore exposure to high winds would now do serious injury to it, and through it to the constitution of the plant. Neither the Auricula nor the Polyanthus can bear to have their leaves broken and twisted in the wind, wherefore this danger must be well guarded against in a month wherein it may blow equinoctial gales. Those who, like myself, grow Auriculas in the sweet country, and have them just now' in a house glazed with large clear glass, will in March begin to find the sun too powerful for the foliage. I do not like to see it much distressed by hot sun, though it will stiffen up again at night. I have there¬ fore a light shading ready to roll down over the glass, if necessary. Without shutting out the sunshine, it tempers it and breaks it, as the budding twigs do in the woods, as they weave their lacework of light shadows over the primroses below. If, however. Auriculas have perfect ventilation given them, they will bear uninjured an intensity of sunshine that would burn them if they were so shut up under it that no current of fresh air could pass over them. I know my friend, Mr. Simonite, of Sheffield, lets the sun of all the year beat upon his Auriculas under ventilation. But then, what a sorry lukewarm sun it is that lights up Sheffield ! and what a durable and inexpensive shading material deposits itself upon Sheffield glass ! — a foul precipitate of all the nuisances, seen and unseen, that are poured into the mysterious Sheffield air. Any treatment for March beyond what I have given, will consist in little acts of kindness to the plants, which a watchful interest in them will prompt and carry out. In a word, it may be called handling. The freeing of a truss entangled by its guard-leaves in the heart, the removal of an ugly pip, the brushing-away of an early aphis, the earthing-up to any new root striking out above the soil, the turning the plants round to have their growth on all sides equal, a watchful eye for things that might ruin bright hopes in a night, and a quick eye and relief for a plant beginning to go wrong by lagging behind — these little matters, and others of small detail that would be tedious to name, weigh much on the whole. High culture and finish are attained by constant and delicate touches, and not by rough and far-between spasmodic efforts. Seedlings, especially of the smaller sizes, should have close attention now. Top-dress the large ones like old plants, and let the soil come up to the base of the leaves. They root very vigorously from that part, and even through the foliage itself. In all seedlings under blooming size, the object is to get them to root strongly, for they will never go along till this is attained. A pot of neg¬ lected Auricula seedlings will be found to be a very melancholy and slow concern. Where seed was sown as soon as ripe, two distinct crops of seedlings will be now obtained. Those that appeared in autumn and were pricked out, are now nice little plants with quite a circle of leaves. Some of these will be strong enough to send up a pip in September. When their soil is at all crusted or mossy, they should be pricked out afresh. In the seed-pots, gather off all which have a well developed seed-leaf, and prick them out. They arc so small to handle 5 G THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, GG that I use my carnation-dressers for moving them about. Keep the seed-pots damp and close, and there will soon be a green crop of seedlings on them again — that is, if there has been plenty of seed to sow*. When I write again, the plants will be coming into bloom, and I wish instead of writing about it, I could have the pleasure of showing the living sight to patient readers who have taken an interest in these papers on a favourite plant. Poor Artemus Ward, when lecturing on his humorous panorama, used to say ^ to his audience, I wish you were nearer to it, so you could see it better.” “ I wish I could take it to your residences, and let you see it by daylight ! Some of the greatest artists in London come with lanterns to look at it before daylight ! They say they never saw anything like it before, and they hope they never shall again !” Few would say all that of a collection of Auriculas in full bloom. A’et I did overhear at the National Show one year a fair visitor exclaim, “ They may call these Auriculas curious, but they are not pretty I” — F. D. Hoener, Kirlchj- Malzeard^ Mipon. THE PITH OF VINES. ®HAT good timber in grape-growing mostly results in fine fruit has passed almost into an axiom, and deservedly so. As to what constitutes good f timber among grape-vines there is also almost an unanimity of opinion. The wood must be hard and solid, almost as heart of oak or as horn. Size is of less moment, though when associated with hardness and solidity, size of wood is closely linked to largeness of bunch. It will be found on examination that the most uncertain factor in the wood of the vine is the pith. The pith is also, to a very large extent, the dominating factor. Is the pith good and compressed into small compass ? Then, as a rule, the wood is also good ; and fine fruit follows from good wood, almost as a matter of course, provided, however, that the treatment is fairly good also. If, then, it may be accepted as something like absolute truth, that as is the pith, so is the vine-wood, and the produce of the vine, it follows that the key to success in vine-culture may be hidden, as it were, in the pith. The question therefore is, — Can cultivators by any special treatment affect the size or deter¬ mine the quality of the pith in vines ? The question may, no doubt, be answered, at least in part, in the affirmative. An excess of water, food, or heat, for instance, may all add to the amount and lower the quality of the pith, pro¬ vided always, however, that the natural result of such excess is not neutralised or turned to good account by the abnormal activity of the vital functions, and the more intense influence of stronger light. Thus it is no easy matter to estimate beforehand what will form pith in excess or otherwise. Still, upon the whole, there can be no question that all so-called forcing treatment, such as leads to the production of gross growth^ is likely to end in an excess of pith. Too muclr pith is, no doubt, often the necessary product of the unequal balance between 1877. ] THE PITH OP VINES. 07 accretion and elaboration. When these work into each other, like the opposite teeth of the cog-wheels driving machinery, then the proportion of pith to wood is mostly correct in regard to quantity, and of the highest quality ; but let more food be absorbed than is or can be elaborated, and an excess of pith is one of the immediate results of the upset of the constitutional balance between these two workers. If this be so, may not the incessant removal of growing shoots and leaves have a good deal to do with the growth of too much ^lith in grape¬ vines ? Growth is an expending function ; it takes of things provided by the roots, and converts them into wood, leaves, tendrils, and fruit. In our anxiety to force all the strength of food, about to be used up and exhausted on new or more wood, into the fruit, may we not weaken the vine, and outwit ourselves, by forcing an undue development of pith ? But then it would also seem that the growth of pith is partly constitutional, geographical, geological, and climatical. As to the first, experience can almost authenticate the fact that each Vine has its specific amount of pith. The rela¬ tive ratio of pith to wood varies in Hamburghs, Muscadines, Muscats, Syrians, Alicantes, Trebbianos, Lady Downe’s, &c. Not only the amount of pith, but its quality, and even colour, seem slightly to vary in each variety. Again, the same Vines from different districts, counties, countries, differ in the relative proportion of pith to wood. It is needful to adopt this exact formula, because merely to say that Vines grown over a wide geographical area differed in the amount of their pith might mean anything or nothing — as, for instance, that the size or specific gravity of the wood of the Vine varied in different countries. But it will be observed by those experienced in vine-wood, that the pith varies relatively to the size of the wood, and in different varieties, in a very marked manner, within distances of comparatively few miles. Geological formations affect the pith of Vines, even more than geographical distances. Of course, the two are also often found acting together. But perhaps the soil is the most potential influence in determining the amount and quality of the pith of Vines. I hope my friends Mr. Ingram, of Belvoir, Mr. Tillery, of Welbeck, Mr. Cramb, of Tortworth — who have made this matter an especial study, as far as the influence of lime on Vines is concerned — and other experi¬ enced vine-growers may give their experience on this point, namely, the effect of geological strata, or of surface-soils, or of both, on the pith of the grape-vine. The effects of climate on pith must of course be close and potential, if the supposition be true that an excess of pith may be largely owing to a disarranged balance between absorption and elaboration ; or in other words, the absorption of food and its conversion into plant-substance or products. Light, and to a lesser extent, heat, being the chief transforming agents, of course the respective amounts of hard wood, soft pith, good fruit, or plump buds produced in a given time or season, must ever be of variable quality and quantity, as the active agents in their production are strong or weak, unobstructed by cloud or vapour, or otherwise. Climatic changes resolve themselves chiefly into differences of temperature, light, a 2 G8 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ Mahch, and moisture. The influence of the latter on the pith of Vines can hardly be over-estimated, for water is not only plant-food, but the great liberator and pre¬ parer of nearly all other sorts of aliment for plants. It also controls, moderates, or retards the processes of converting that food into produce. In excess it lowers the temperature of plants, probably obstructs the entry of light, and may thus, directly or indirectly, lead to the formation of an excess of pith. For the amount of light that is utilised by plants is assuredly the measure of their effective work, and governs the character of their products ; while an excess of water within plants, or any portion of them, puts the drag on work, and hence, to a large extent, the influence of climate on the growth and character of all vegetable products. But these suggestions are offered, and I trust will also be accepted as mere guesses at truth, in a region in which our ignorance is dense, and our certain light nil^ or almost so. Hence, if they do not reach the pith of the matter, I hope they may nevertheless prove useful in enabling us to discover, perhaps, in the future, with more practical advantage than we have been able to do in the past, what is the matter with the pith, when that seems faulty or in excess. For it is highly probable that many cases of shanking and of failure, may have their cause in the pith of the Vine ; and if so, we must look for means of im¬ proving the pith as nearly as possible out of the Vine, as the likeliest way to a cure, for it will be generally accepted as an axiom that the less pith the better.-— D. T, Fish, Hardioklce. VILLA GARDENING FOR MARCH. HUNDEED activities are now at work in the garden, and signs of move¬ ment abound on every hand. The old proverb tells us that “As the days lengthen, the cold strengthens,” and there are signs abroad that a spell of cold, perhaps severe, weather is at hand. The gardener must, therefore, be watchful, for things are getting very forward, and protection will be necessary if frost sets in. The Cold Greenlmise : Let us look round, and note what we have in bloom. There are Primroses, Polyanthuses, Triteleia miijiora^ Leucojum vernum^ Myosotis dissitijiora^ Aloe variegata^ Hyacinths, Scilla bifolia^ and S. sibirica, Primula denticulata^ and several varieties of Crocus verms. The foregoing represent a number of subjects that can be had in flower at this season of the year in a cold greenhouse — such a house as forms a part of many villa residences. Then to succeed these there are Auriculas, various species of Primida^ such as P. 2)idcherrima^ marginaia., nivalis.^ intermedia.^ and amcena ; Dodecatheon Meadia^ Anemone fulgens.^ TropcEolum tricolorum.^ and others too numerous to mention. And lest it should be thought this is a fanciful picture, let it be remarked that it is drawn from actual facts, and the enjoyment to be derived from such a floral possession is possible to many who have a fondness for flowers. A free circula¬ tion of air is necessary, and green-fly needs to be hunted out of the plants. In drying weather a supply of water is necessary, and any flowering plants should be shaded from the sun when it is warm and drying at mid-da}". The Warm Greenhouse: This should be gay with a great varietv of floral expression. Hyacinths, Azaleas, Camellias, Tulips, Narcissi, Oineranas, lioteia 1877. ] VILLA GAEDENING FOR MARCH. 69 japonica^ Ericas, Epacris, &c., should be now in full bloom, or rapidly advancing to flower. Drying influences abound, for the sun shines out warmly, and the air is at times crisp and clear, and the soil in the pots soon dries. Watering at the roots, gentle syringings overhead, a free circulation of air suited to the weather, and shading as required, will now demand close attention. A kind of frame or pit in the warmest part of the house is of very great service for propagating- purposes, and cuttings of soft-wooded plants placed in pots or pans of a light sandy soil soon take root, if kept in them close and moist. Balsams, Primula sinensis^ Amaranths, and other tender things can be sown preparatory to a summer service. Cleanliness is all-important ; nothing is so offensive in a greenhouse as plants in a filthy condition. Cold Frames: Here, as in the greenhouse, watering needs constant attention. What ought to occupy the cold frame at this time of year ? Among many use¬ ful things may be instanced Carnations, Picotees, Pinks, Phloxes, and Pentste- mons, raised from cuttings the previous autumn, as well as store-plants of bedding Lobelias, Hollyhocks, Delphiniums, &c. Happy are they who wintered their Pinks in cold frames, rather than trusted them to the tender mercies of the wet winter in the open ground ! There has been a terrible loss among Pinks, and some collections are nearly destroyed. It will soon be necessary to get some of the hardiest plants out into the flower-borders, to make room for such of the bedding plants that will have to occupy the frames during the hardening process. Flower Garden : That most interesting part of a flower garden ; the mixed Border, having been cleared as recommended last month, many things, such as Pseonies, Crown Imperials, Lilies, &c., will be fast coming through the soil, audit will be well to throw a little litter over them when frost threatens. Various bulbs, such as Bulhocodium vernum^ Grape Hyacinths, Dogtooth violets, single and double. Daffodils, and Crocuses are now in bloom ; and Hepaticas, Aubrietias, Daisies, Phlox verna and P. subulata, Saxifraga granulata flore-pleno^ &c., should be coming on to succeed them. There are a whole host of beautiful things of this kind — cheap in price, easily managed, and delightful when in bloom. Seeds of certain things, such as Pansies, Pentstemons, Violas, Petunias, Marigolds, and anything of the kind used for the summer garden, should now be sown ; among them. Wallflowers for blooming early next spring. As a general rule. Wallflowers are sown too late, and instead of March should be sown in January or February, to have flowers as soon after Christmas as possible. Eoses may now be pruned, or at least the China kinds. These require little cutting-back further than regulating and thinning the leading shoots, and cutting away weakly or stunted wood. The pruning of Hybrid Perpetual Eoses should be postponed till the end of the month, or early in April, according to the weather. Clematises and other creepers should now be pruned and tidied up for the season. Kitchen Garden: The planting and sowing of Vegetable crops must be pro¬ ceeded with, as the weather proves favourable for doing so. Light soils can be worked in something like comfort, but heavy soils are still very clinging, owing to so much wet. Such soils should be broken up, so as to become dry enough for planting. Brussels Sprouts, Kales, Early Broccolis, Cabbages, Lettuces, Spinach, Parsley, and all requisite crops, with Peas and Beans for succession, should be sown as the weather serves, and the soil is got into a workable condition. The Early Pea and Bean crops will need hoeing between, as this proceeding greatly assists gi’owth. The pruning and nailing of wall-trees should be completed as soon as possible, as Peaches, Nectarines, Apricots, and Plums are fast coming into bloom, — D. 70 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ March, GAEDEN GOSSIP. HE annual general meeting of the Royal Horticultural Society was held in the Council Room, South Kensington, on the 13th ult., the President, Lord fAberdare, in the chair. The Council reported that the Scientific, the Fruit, and the Floral Committees had met during the year without intermission, and worked assiduously at their respective branches ; and under their superin¬ tendence and direction, much valuable work had been done both in the garden at Chiswick, and at the meetings at South Kensington ; they stated that they would continue to encourage the fortnightly meetings which form so great an attraction to all lovers of flowers, fruit, and horticulture generally, and at which may bo seen all the novelties that have been collected by commercial or private enterprise. “ The agreement entered into with her Majesty’s Com¬ missioners in April last authorised the Society to bon’ow £7,000 upon their guaranty of repayment, in case they resumed possession of the gardens. The Council have borrowed upon this security £5,000, which enabled them to pay outstanding liabilities, prizes and medals ; so that on December 31 last, the Society had a balance in hand more than sufficient to pay all their outstanding liabilities. The Society may be said to have commenced this year without debt or liability (except that attaching to surplus income in respect of debentures), which has not been the case for very many years past.” At the ballot which took place, the following gentlemen were elected ; — Sir Charles Strickland, Mr. H, J. Elwes, and Mr. T, M. Shuttleworth, new Members of Council Lord Aberdare, President ; Mr, Henry Webb, Treasurer ; Dr. Kobert Hogg, Secretary ; Mr, H. Campion, Mr. Henry Webb, and Mr. William Houghton, Expenses Committee-men ; and Mr, J. Lee, Mr. Henry Little, and Mr, James West, Auditors, - opening of the Amsterdam International Horticultural Exhibition and Botanical Congress is fixed for April 12, Those who intend to exhibit must notify their intention before March 1 ; and will have to send in before March 15, in duplicate, forms properly filled up, and which will be supplied to them. The articles must be forwarded carriage-free, and addressed to the Board of Commissioners of the International Horticultural Exhibition, Palace of Industry, Amsterdam, on April 6, 7, or 9. A jury, to consist of competent Dutch and foreign scientific gentlemen, will assemble on April 10, at 1 1 o’clock a.m. to award the prizes ; and the exhibition will be open to the public from April 13 until May 2. The secretary is Mr. J. B. Groenewegen, - JtN Dietz’s Portable Heating Apparatus^ for warming small greenhouses, passages, &c., we appear to have got a very useful contrivance, much superior to the lamps sometimes recommended for a similar purpose. The apparatus is intended to be worked by means of paraffin oil. There is a burner in the centre near the floor, and over this a vertical tube or boiler, crossed by numerous smaller tubes ; this is 3 feet high. On either side is a vertical tube of the same height, and these are connected with the boiler- tube by five horizontal tubes, making the extreme width 2 feet ; at the base is another horizontal tube, the whole length foiming a reservoir for the oil. The apparatus holds about 2 gallons of water, and with an inch wick burning about a quart of oil in 24 hours, this water is heated to about 200° F. in three-quarters of an hour. The escape of vapour from the heated water may be checked by a condenser, or when desired, it can be allowed to pass into the house unchecked. The apparatus is of block-tin, with ornamental cast iron feet. For garden use, in the case of the small conservatories attached to suburban residences, it seems very much to be preferred over those airangements where the heating is effected by gas. - ^HE Cactus and other Tropical Succidents is the name of a neat little treatise on succulent plants in general, by H. Allnutt (200 Fleet Street), which being issued at a low price, is just the thing to put into the hands of those who are commencing to grow or to study these interesting and peculiar types of vegetation. The work, which will readily drop into the pocket, consists for the most part of extracted matter, but the author honestly avows the fact, and acknowledges the source whence it is derived. In this way the writings of Loudon, Jackson, McIntosh, Thompson, McElroy, Hi})berd, Griudon, and Croucher, all reliable authorities, are laid under contribution, and the latter gentleman furnishes specially for the present work some useful instructions how to destroy 1 1877.] GARDEN GOSSIP. 71 the insect-pcsts which from time to time iufest them. Amongst other things, the story is told of the monster Cactus at Kew, Echinocactus Visnaga, which weighed 713 lb., and measured 4^ ft. high and 8|- ft. in circumference. - ®HE proposal to hold a Carnation and Picotee Show in London during the ensuing season has met with a liberal response, as did that of holding a Metropolitan Auricula Show. A preliminary meeting was held on January 31, at which G. F. Wilson, Esq., consented to act as president, and Mr. E. S. Dodwell as Hon. Secretary. At a subsequent meeting a schedule of prizes, prepared by Messrs. Turner, Dod¬ well, and Douglas, was adopted, and this has now been printed, and may be had of the Hon. Secretary, 11 Chatham Terrace, Larkhall Rise, Clapham. There was a fair prospect of success in this enterprise, as no other opportunity seemed likely to be afforded for such a meeting. The schedule extends to some 10 classes, embracing ninety-one prizes, the money value being something over £54. The contributions amount to some 50 guineas, so that a further sum of from £18 to £20 is needed to meet the prize list, and necessary expenses, which it is hoped may be forthcoming shortly, so as to place the committee on safe ground. - teE accompanying figures represent West^s Patent Adjustalle Trellis^ an invention of Mr. J. F. West, of Eeigate. It is a contrivance likely to be use¬ ful to amateurs, since it does away with the, to them, often inconvenient use of ladders and steps in the manipu¬ lation of their Vines, whether it be the tying-in or adjustment of the shoots, or the tedious work of thinning the berries, by admitting of the Vines being lowered to any convenient height. The lowering of the trellis cannot in any way in¬ jure the stem of the Vine,, if trained as in the drawing, -ftie deflection being very slight. The trellis may be constructed of either iron or wood ; the former is preferable in many respects, as it combines light¬ ness of appearance with strength and durability ; it can, more¬ over, bo fitted to any shaped house. In the figure, AA shows the trellis in position and lowered ; BB the chains for lowering and raising ; and CC the drums and pulleys round which the chains work. DD shows the fonn and construction of the trellis itself.” - ®HE Schedule of Prizes for the Auricula Show^ to be beld on April 24 at tlie Crystal Palace^ as a Southern offshoot of the National Auricula Society, is now ready, and may be obtained from the Secretary, Mr. E. S. Dodwell, 11 Chatham Tenrace, Larkhall Rise, Clapham, S.W. The classes have been framed to suit growers of every grade, so that if the competition is at all what may be expected, the show will be a most interesting one for the lovers of the Auricula, much more so than any which has taken place in the South of England during the present generation at least. It has been decided to adopt as few restrictions and limitations as possible, in order to secure greater breadth of and variety in the several classes. The chief of those adopted are : — To require dissimilar varieties in classes containing two or more plants ; to permit only one truss in Auriculas, but not to limit the trusses in the classes of Alpines ; to admit shaded and unshaded varieties amongst these latter, and not to confine Polyanthuses to the gold-laced types. lu every class it is desired that the best should win, and so that the leading properties are not / violated, no rigid or fast rules beyond those indicated above will be observed; The premier class will be that for twelve dissimilar varieties. As regards dissimilarity, it may be men¬ tioned that although the committee does not in this case bind the exhibitors to show an equal * ii [j i 72 THE FLOEIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ MARCH, iiuniber of the four usual types, green, grey, and Avhite-edged, and seifs, or even representa¬ tives of each, yet those who best illustrate these several types will assuredly come nearest to the specified limitation, that of dissimilarity. The success of this attempt to organise an Auricula show in London is very encouraging. - Amongst the new Potatos, Hooper's Covent Garden Perfection is highly spoken of. It was raised by Mr. Clarke, of Cranemoor, and is described as being of a flattish oval form, very level-eyed so as not to waste in paring, of medium and uniform size, with a rough skin, and great specific gravity. This variety, while unques¬ tionably handsome and holding a high position as an exhibition tuber, has the more important qualification of bearing the ordeal of cooking, since it comes to table as a “ ball of flour,” and having that chief requisite — a good flavour. - JtT is announced that the stock of Laxton's Seedling Pelargoniums^ including Vesta and Mrs. Trevor Clarke, which have been awarded First-class Certificates by the Floral Committee of the Eoyal Horticultural Society, has passed into the hands of Mr. R. Gilbert, of Burghley. His named and certificated New Roses, viz., Mrs. Laxton, Charles Darwin, Emily Laxton, Dr. Hogg, and Marchioness of Exeter, have become the property of Messrs. Paul and Son, of Cheshunt ; while Mr. Turner, of Slough, has acquired all the unnamed seedling Roses. - ®HE hardiest of the Tritomas has been ascertained, by Messrs. Backhouse and Son, of York, to be T. Rooperi, It was found that while the flower-spikes of the other kinds, namely, T. Uvaria glaucescens, and grandiflora, succumbed to the first frosts, and drooped and withered at once, those of Tritoma Rooperi bore the same low temperature uninjured, and many plants of this species have bloomed through the winter in Messrs. Backhouse’s nurseries. T. Rooperi is a dwarf plant, from ft. to 2 ft., well adapted for positions in groups or borders where the taller kinds might be considered de trop. It commences to flower later than T. Uvaria. - JTrom the report and balance-sheet issued by the Committee of the Hailstorm Relief Fund^ it appears that the total amount raised for the relief of the sufferers in the neighbourhood of Tottenham was £779 18s. 7d., of which £699 158. 8d. was distributed among forty-one persons, in sums varying from £111 4s. lOd., the highest, to £l 7s. 3d., the lowest. The total amount asked for by those who suffered damage was upwards of £2,000, but the Assessment Committee carefully investigated each case, and acted accordingly. - ®HE exhibition of the Richmond Horticultural Society is fixed to take place in the Old Deer Park, Eichmond, on the 28th of June next. - — — William Melville, of the Tyneville Vineries, Jersey, died on January 2 7, in the sixty-sixth year of his age. Mr. Melville was for thirty years gardener at Dalmeny Park, near Edinburgh, and retired about eight years ago on a liandsohie annuity from the Earl of Rosebery. He was an enthusiastic cross-breeder of plants, particularly df the Brassica tribe, and sent out, amongst others, the Albert and Roseberry Sprouts, and a very superior Variegated Kale. He was also the raiser of the Muscat Champion Grape, and in early life was one of the first to improve the Pansy. Of his fifteen children, six were brought up as gardeners. - — IWr. John Harrison, of the North of England Eose Nurseries, Darlington, died rather suddenly, at Catterick Bridge, at the advanced age of seventy-six. As a Eose-grower he stood deservedly high, and was an efficient , supporter of most of the principal exhibitions in Yorkshire and Northumberland, besides other parts of England. Two of his sons have been brought up to the nursery business. Jrr’’ M White Calville Apple. 1877. ] THE AURICULA. - CHAPTER XII. 73 WHITE WINTER CALVILLE APPLE. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. E have in this one of the handsomest and best of Apples — one, moreover, which can be depended on as a valuable dessert fruit in the winter season, since it may be placed on the table in good condition from about Christmas until Easter. There is a peculiar delicacy in the tender melting flesh, and grateful aromatic lemon flavour, almost making one fancy while eating a fruit which has just arrived at a fit condition, that he is taking a lemon ice while sniffing the flowers of Magnolia grandifiora. This Apple is very successfully cultivated at Trentham, by Mr. Stevens. It is grown in pots, which are stood at intervals along the long ranges of peach- cases, which cover so large a proportion of the garden-wall at that place. They have, therefore, virtually orchard-house treatment, and well they repay all the advantages which are accorded to them, as the result is a supply of fruit such as that represented in our plate, which is drawn from a specimen kindly fur¬ nished for the purpose by Mr. Stevens. One of these pot-grown trees was produced a few weeks since at South Kensington, showing the crop it had matured last season, and as an example of successful management, was voted a Cultural Commendation. The fruit is of large size, with broad unequal ribs extending from base to apex, where they terminate in prominent ridges. The skin is of a pale delicate yellow hue, becoming when fully matured a bright golden yellow, strewed with brown dots. The eye is small and closed, with pointed segments, set in a deep- ribbed basin ; the stalk is three-quarters of an inch long, slender, inserted in a deep angular cavity lined with russet. The flesh is yellowish-white, very tender and delicate, full of juice, with a lively aromatic flavouring of lemons. It is not only an excellent dessert fruit, but is also adapted for all culinary purposes. This variety is much recommended as a cordon on the French Paradise stock, for which and for pot-culture it seems better adapted than to be grown as a standard tree. — T. Moore. -Packing for THE AURICULA. Chapter XII. — On the Eve op Bloom. — Treatment.- Exhibition. [RE there not circumstances, times, and seasons in which, though hopes and anticipations are not quite fulfilled, yet they are so in such large part as to make us feel well content ? In the near grasp of the whole, we are able to bear, nay, luxuriate in that very delay which is short enough and near enough to the pleasure to belong to it, and even make it seem all the greater. Is it not thus with the schoolboy when he has just started for the holidays, and the next station is Home ? Is it not thus with happy lovers (N.B. — These 3rd series. — X. H 74 TflE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, sort of people always are “ liappy,” — by courtesy, at any rate), when the one has, in profound meekness, put the fateful question, and the other has gently settled it ? And is it not thus with the florist also, as his green buds flush with colour, and the bloom breaks gradually over the breadth of his plants, like the summer sunrise, that catches first the peaks upon the hills, but spreads and brightens by degrees, until at last the whole scene of hill and dale, and winding silver river, lies beautiful in the light of the blooming day ? Florist flowers almost put a girdle round the year. It is not a very long gap between the last Chrysanthemum and the first Auricula, or her earlier sister, the Polyanthus ; while other flowers, such as the Camellia and Cineraria, possessing florist properties, in some degree, fill up various intervals. With the Auricula, we enter upon the blooming-season that will stretch into the far summer with the Carnation and Picotee, and into the late autumn with the Dahlia and Gladiolus. There will be gayer floral scenes for us than the coming one, but nothing will overlay the fair memories of April with the Auricula, not even the witcheries of the ever-changing Eose. As I have only one emerald-edged pip of grand old Champion (Page’s) in flower as I write this, I am unable this time to describe the bloom from sight, though I might do so, after a manner, by drawing on the past, as stored in memory and notes, or by anticipating the promise in the future as folded in the buds, fast rising now upon their stems. However, I will ask the Editor, who has so long entrusted me with space within these pages, to grant me a little more. [Most gladly, Ed.] I am like the boy near home. The bloom is all but in sight ! Let us go slow ! With a good deal of snow, and frost enough to skate by, March has not been more like a lion than a Polar bear. The plants, however, have been growing finely through it, for I thought it well to take the chill off those few nights here, with their 12° to 18° of frost, so kept a quiet fire on, which I only use for Auriculas as an auxiliary for the outside shading, when that is not protection enough in sharp spring frosts. The work with these plants in April is indeed welcome work, guiding them through their bloom in constant recollection that, though the plant itself is hardy enough, yet the bloom is tender and easily injured. Every grower, whether of a dozen or a thousand plants, and whether he means to exhibit or not, should be determined to take as much pains as if he did. Nothing less will make the bloom satisfactory to him. It is the poorest mistake, and the most pitiable of excuses, to say, “I do not grow them for exhibition, so they will do well enough for me.” No one is fit to be trusted with a plant, any more than with a dog, if he means to ill-treat it. Like a dog, it is a good thing thrown away upon him, and the sight is grievous. The plants may be kept pretty freely supplied with water during April. Let it be at least as warm as the air that surrounds them. They will soon be throwing out Very strong new roots from the higher parts of the stem, and these 1877. ] THE AURICULA. - CHAPTER XII. 75 are to assist the bloom. Care must be taken to afford these important roots every advantage. See that they are not washed bare, or suffered to die back from want of earth at starting. In the Polyanthus the whole well-being of the plant depends upon the encouragement given to these neck-roots, and in the Auricula, also, they are of very great moment. The supply of air must be the freest pos¬ sible, and then the quick-growing foliage, and the rapidly-rising stems will harden as they grow, and the plant will keep its natural, self-supporting habit. If in doubt about the wind, whether too rough, or cold, or not, it is best to be on the safe side, and protect the plants. Perhaps some of the ventilators open on the lee of the wind, or shading material to break the force of it can be arranged, as in my own case, to protect the openings and riddle the wind. Another most important step towards securing a fine bloom is the timely and judicious thinning of the pips. Nearly every Auricula, large or small, will give more pips than it can properly, 2.e., completely and uniformly, expand. It is as unwise to leave a large truss of Auriculas unthinned as to leave every berry on a bunch of grapes. There is even no gain upon the whole in size, but much confusion and inequality. From five to eleven fiat, distinct, and equal pips are a better show in every way than a crushed-up ball, where hardly a blossom stands out conspicuously as it should do, in all its outlines. Thin¬ ning-out must be a daily amusement, a gradual operation among the plants, and gradual, too, as regards each plant. There is some responsibility in choosing what pips shall stand, and the best cannot with certainty be picked out when the operation first becomes beneficial, which is as soon as the pips can easily be separated, and worked among with a pair of narrow scissors. The small central pips, and such as may be laid underneath the larger ones, will be the weakest both in size and properties. In the edged flowers, pips thus placed will often be too heavy in body-colour, and correspondingly deficient in edge. There is also a tendency among the green-edges to throw meal on the edge of the innermost pips — a fault against one of their highest properties — purity. Innermost pips may, therefore, as a rule, be cut out. Be very certain that you have only one little neck within the clip of the scissors, or to your blank dismay, two heads may fall instead of one ; a small in¬ accuracy may bring about this catastrophe. Pulling pips out is not always safe ; if the direction of the pull is not perpendicular to the set of the pip, several buds may be torn off with it whose foot-stalks lie close by. There may be a violently disproportionate leading pip, or one with an oval turn and an inclination to cor¬ pulence, evidently more or less a double pip. Such should be removed, for the relief of the regular ones. Even pips of every promise in the folded bud may yet prove faulty inside. There may be a hare-lipped tube, or some serious flaw in the paste. For instance, in Pizarro, richest of brown seifs, and such a round serene flower, there are often yellow round spots in the paste quite bare of meal. In Page’s Champion, a most delicious emerald green-edge, there will occur rents in the paste, where the petal H 2 76 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, segments cut into tlie quick. In Prince of Greens, a splendid pip or whole head, will come, with a “ blanket eye,” f.c., hardly meal enough in the paste to cover the ground, which has thus a baldness of its own (as much as we have !). In choosing pips, therefore, all these and other contingencies are to be allowed for, in the face of which one rude, rough thinning-out would be very poor, and rueful practice. No Auricula, however strong, should be allowed to carry more than one truss. The second would be a terrible pull upon the plant, which would have to heart past it, and would feel the effort acutely. Such pips would also be of very in¬ ferior quality, and they should be removed by cutting or rubbing off when they stand on an inch or so of stem. If the whole second head were cut short off, it would die by soft green-rot into the heart and probably cause the death of the plant. When the bloom is opening, there is one very unwelcome visitor^ and that is the bee, especially the humble, or “ bumble,” as he is generally called. The sight of a “ bumble ” upon a white-edged Auricula is a horror. Scratched by his horny legs, blurred by his humming wing, the fair flower is an irreparable ruin. I dare leave no aperture unprotected by perforated zinc-slides or shading material against the busy bee. In this connection I will utter a warning cry against another possible intruder — the baleful cat. Who among us does not know him in the garden for an evil beast ? He is a very valid reason, beyond that of untrusty April weather, for keeping the Auricula-house safely closed at night. He will otherwise regard it as a benevolent institution, erected, on the principle of a “ cabmen’s shelter,” for the accommodation of himself and his vilely tuneful brotherhood on uncomfort¬ able nights. He casts an admiring eye, just now, upon the newly-planted Ranunculus-bed, as being beneficently arranged for him to scratch up. He re¬ connoitres the freshly set-out pots of Carnations and Picotees, and discovers splendid strategic positions among them which he may utilise when on the war¬ path ; and unless we fortify our treasured plants by screens or thorn-twigs, or something proof against him, we may find ruin wrought among them ; their beauty trodden in the dust, like the purple and gold of vineyards and corn-lands on deadlier battle-fields. Unlike the midnight cat, the florist himself is most welcome among his plants at night. He is not the man to subside too easily into the warm retirement of dressing-gown and slippers in the evening, nor to sleep heavily into broad, sunny, summer mornings. Early morning hours are golden opportunities in the garden, and so is an hour after dark. My “ garden lamp,” trimmed at sun-down, is an in¬ stitution of the household, and I hardly miss a night the year round in looking the plants over, if I am at home. There is as little tax and trouble in it as the mother finds in quietly slipping upstairs now and then to see that the little one is asleep and safe from nightly harm. The florist, indeed, should be the glow¬ worm, the veritable “ Jack-o’-Lantern ” of his garden; and then, instead of moaning in the morning over the mischief of the night, he is often in time to 1877. ] ABUTILON BOULE DE NEIGE. 77 ( i 1: a f s It I b r n 1 b 9 9 ti e 0 9 n 2 9 b 11 a n ft % l( ei It bi £ ri 5 b( fc b( b( ai e bi ft ei bi 23 21 m 23 a\ ffi » £>t stop it. Great is liis reward, as the light falls on some glistening snail nearly arrived at an Auricula-bloom. Why, the gleam from that cold slug is as rich in its way as the sparkle from a diamond, for that vagrant is wanted,” perhaps, on several charges of mischief, and watchfulness has secured him at last. The amount of sun the plants may have until in full bloom, when they should be shaded from all, may be regulated by the amount the foliage will bear. Any intensity of sunshine that begins to take the gloss off the leaves is more than enough, but that, in the early morning and late afternoon, is safe. Every effort will naturally be made to prolong the bloom, and yet some very awkward weather for this purpose is almost sure to occur. Days when the sun is bright and the wind is cold may perplex the beginner. If he open the house, the wind is too much for him, and if he shut it, the sun is masterful. I compro¬ mise the matter by pulling down the shading and ventilating the house under it. A word as to a method of packing and carrying the plants for exhibition may be useful here. The trusses are first tied to a slight stick, wrapped with cotton-wool at all points of contact with the stem, so as to avoid any abrasion. Soft worsted is used for tying. The stick should reach up to the foot-stalk of the truss, on which the pips are very carefully parted, with light puffs of cotton-wool gently placed between each pip. Every one must be so embedded as to be beyond the risk of rubbing or being rubbed by its neighbours. The plant is then turned out of the pot, and any soil free of roots removed. The ball is wrapped in damp moss, and tied up securely, the label being inserted for identification, if need be. The plants are then packed side by side as closely as they may be in a box, alwa3^s carried in the hand, and are then ready for their eventful journey. My boxes open down the side, and are fitted with a drawer, in which I first pack the plants, and then return the drawer with them in it to its place. As far as exhibiting goes, the Auricula has a brilliant season before it, with the two shows of the National Auricula Society, one South and one North. May all go well with all of us, for everybody has a chance. — F. D. Horner, Kirkhy Mcilzeard^ liipon. ABUTILON BOULE DE NEIGE. T no period in the history of gardening has there been such a steady, I had almost said an inordinate, demand for a continuous supply of cut flowers as at the present ; and in the depth of winter it is a great advantage to have something to depend on which will flower freely and naturally, with the minimum of assistance. In the Ahutilon Boule de Neige we have one of the most useful plants for our purpose, as it is of easy management, and a free and continuous blooming habit ; it is, moreover, not liable to disease or insects, while its beautiful white crocus-like flowers are suitable for any purpose. Cuttings struck at any time during the spring in a little heat make the most useful plants. They like a warm greenhouse treatment through the summer, and a natural rest about August and September prepares them for their winter treat 78 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, merit, which is simply to give them a moderate stove-temperature, in which they will produce a good succession of flowers. After a little exhaustion, they will, if still kept in a vrarm place, again give another supply, and by having a few plants introduced at intervals a good succession is secured. I find them do well in a light loam, with a little leaf-mould and sand, but almost any soil will be found suitable. Planted out in the borders of a con- seiwatory, and grown either as a bush or trained to the back wall, the plant grows well, but for continuance in flowering a batch grown in pots is preferable. I may here mention another valuable plant for winter flowering, not half so much grown as it should be — liabrothamnus faseiculatus. Planted against the back wall of a greenhouse, and its summer shoots not stopped, it flowers profusely, the colour contrasting well with lighter subjects. — J. W. Laurence, Newstead Ahhey^ Nottingham. CHAMiEPEUOE DIACANTHA HARDY IN HANTS. Shis plant has withstood the winters of 1875-G here, and it seeded freely last summer, from which seed we have at this time (February 2G), young f plants. There are also plants which were raised in the spring of 187G which have had no protection whatever this winter, and are now healthy and strong. The winter of 1875-G was a cold and protracted one, and the present one has been remarkable for mildness and excessive rainfall, so that this ChamcepeMce seems to be quite hardy, though it has been classed among plants requiring the protection of a frame in winter, or as being only a half-hardy biennial. — Henry Ohilman, Somerley Gardens. PEACH DESSE TARDIVE. [LLOW me to recommend what is to my mind the best late Peach in culti¬ vation — Desse Tardive. It is not a now variet}-, were it so, its sterling merits would soon become better known. I have not been able to trace its exact history : only it hails from Franco. Every Peach-cultivator knows the excellent qualities and fine appearance of the Bellegarde and of the Eoyal George. Well, this Desse Tardive Peach is very similar in appearance to the Bellegarde, having the same shape, wdth a brighter colour, and with the same texture of flesh, and the same excellent quality, but it comes into use some weeks later. It might, indeed, very appropriately be called a late Bellegarde. Now, a late Bellegarde is a great improvement — for open-wall culture especially — on the Barrington and Late Admirable, which ripen about the same time. These two latter are suitable enough, and very excellent for house-culture, but wdien grown on the open wall they have an ugly greenish look about them ; and it is only a certain proportion of them that are of average quality. They are coarse-grained at the best. There is a wonderful drop-down both in tone and quality, from the mid-season Peaches of the Bellegarde type to the late varieties as at present cultivated. This Desse Tardive vf'Al carry on the good appearance, and the good quality, to the end of the Peach season — till October. 1S77. ] THE STEIPED BEEFING APPLE 79 Dr. Hogg says, in the Fruit Manual^ of the Desse Tardive Eipe in the end of September and October,” ‘‘ This is one of the very best late Peaches,” At Chiswick this season it fruited on the open wall, two small cordon trees pro^^ ducing eighteen fruits, which vrere gathered on September 30th, They were all large and highly coloured, and of most excellent quality. Here is a speciality worthy of the attention of some of our enterprising nurserymen. — A. F. B, THE STRIPED BEEFING APPLE. jHIS may be considei’ed a Norfolk apple, the original seedling tree being first noticed in the neighbourhood of Norwich. It is a large kitchen apple, and keeps nearly as long as the Norfolk Beejing^ but is more juicy and better suited for cooking purposes ; besides, it is much larger. This may be seen by the annexed outline of a fulh sized fruit. I have grown the Sirfed Beefing for many years, and seldom found it fail in fruitfulness, though in general the crop has been below that of smaller kinds, but equal to that of some of the large sorts. The fruit on the sunny side is of a mahogany-colour, while the shaded side is striped with tinges of red and greenish yellow. The stalk is very short, and the eye set in a deep basin ; in fact the apple somewhat resembles the Mere de Menage^ another large-fruited variet}^ worthy of notice. I have mentioned the Norfolk Ijeefing in order to notice that this is 80 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOOIST. [ April, perhaps the best kind of apple for baking or drying purposes, and when of full size always fetches a good price. I have known Beefings bring 20s. a sack, while other kinds sold for 5s. Norwich is famed for drying or preserving Beefing apples. I am not exactly acquainted with the process ; still I know that the apples are picked nearly of equal size and packed on the top of each other in tin cases, and are weighed or pressed down during the process of baking, but as in many other operations, the chances of success depend upon practical experience. — J. Wighton, Cossey Parle . EOELLA CILIATA. 'HIS is a pretty and distinct-looking plant, when managed with success. It is not, however, held in favour with some cultivators, in consequence of its tendency to become rusty in the foliage ; but this is caused either by the plant being placed in too cold a draft, or by allowing it to become dry at the root. To begin with a young plant, it should be one not too much pot-bound. April is a good time to give a shift into a size-larger pot, using for soil good fibry peat, with one-sixth of its bulk of loam, and adding to this a liberal quantity of sharp sand. Give ample drainage, and after potting place the plant in the greenhouse near to the glass, and where it will not be subjected to cold currents of air. Slightly bedew the plant with the syringe on the afternoons of bright days, and pay careful attention to watering at all times. Take off the tops of all shoots gaining an undue lead, in order to equalise the growth of the plant. As soon as the roots have reached the sides of the pot, give another shift, and proceed to treat as before directed. If stopping is discontinued by the last week in May, the plant will bloom in July, and its pretty bell-shaped flowers will well repay the cultivator for the attention bestowed on this Poella. — Henry Chilman, Somerley Gardens. CULTUKE THE CHIEF SOUECE OF IMPEOVEMENT. ^jHE subject of the improvement of races, whether amongst animals or vegetables, is, to say the least, one of great and abiding interest. It seems to me, however, that one view of the subject has never had due weight accorded it by horticulturists. I disclaim any desire to uphold the theory of evolution beyond the limit to which the ideas herein expressed may lead. My proposition is that cultivation — cultivation pure and simple, and apart from cross-fertilisation — has a far greater influence upon the improvement of races than we are accustomed to accord to it ; and that herein “ cause and effect ” are so intimately associated as to be inseparable, whatever hybridists and others may advance to the contrary. That the hybridist lays far greater weight on the process of cross-fertilisa¬ tion than on all the arts of culture, I need not attempt to prove, since it is well known that a successful cross is regarded by him as the only road to the attainment of his successful “ breaks,” and he holds that by the aid 1877. ] CULTURE THE CHIEF SOURCE OP IMPROVEMENT. 81 of this process alone he is “ master of the situation.” We must admit that crosses are effectual in producing variety, but I think I shall prove that without the aid of culture they are incapable of yielding more than very primary results, though as it would appear that we live in an age of results, we cannot tell what a season may bring forth. With the battle of races in their normal forms, or of weeds in their “ wilderness-homes,” I have nothing here to do. There the fight is to the strongest, though it appears to be but a natural guarantee against rapid pro¬ gress, that weeds, even though they be the strongest, shall so increase as to kinds, as to become themselves barriers to the improving advance of each other, and that thus the “ curse ” of briars and weeds is indefinitely perpetuated and up¬ held without any kind of extraneous aid. Cultivation alters all this. If we single out a plant and give it changed soil and situation, a marked improvement will become manifest before very many years, an improvement such as would never have taken place had it remained in its native soil, doing indefinite battle with others of its kind. Even among human beings, we find that progressive change does not go on without some kind of cultural incentive foreign to the individual. What the moral or the mental incentive is to the human being, such is the in¬ fluence of culture to the plant ; and it rests for ever a normal form, or changes to a better, as these are given or withheld. In confirmation of this, I may note that we profit by taking advantage of such subjects as denote marked changes. For instance, there are the double forms of very many normal single-flowered plants, as the Daisies, Primroses, Pelargoniums, &c. ; these singular sports, as beautiful as they are permanent, are begotten, as none will deny, of cultivation. Observe the old Sweet Scabious, cultivated for a century or more, and persistently constant, but it yields at last, and we now possess a lovely variety, which goes on increasing in beauty and size, now that once the normal form has been forced to develope new features by continued culture. Gradually the inner crown of florets has gained in size and consistency, until now we produce blooms of the choicest character from simple seed-sowing. Turn to tlie Fuchsia. It is not many years since the first plant was bought of the sailor’s wife, and fewer still since the first double form appeared, but now that constant and good culture is assured, we have “ Avalanches ” and similar immensities as abundant as ‘‘ new moons.” Again, in reference to the lovely forms of double-blossomed Pelargoniums, of the type of Bedding Pelargoniums more particularly, we all remember, a few years back, the appearance of the first double, or in other words, the first “ break yet how numerous have they already become ! Take, again, the Rose, Pyrethrum, and later still, the Portulaca ; but lately the latter was constantly a single flower, yet to-day it may be found con¬ stant in many double forms. What is more, these double-flowered plants are self-seeding, and hence self-producing in endless variety. Let the mind’s eye wander over the fields of Hollyhocks, Dahlias, Sunflowers (in the culture of which last the Abyssinians have gained a century on us), and the Potentillas, 82 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, Lobelias, Clarkias, and even Sweet Williams, do they not all point to culture ” — decades of culture, it may be, all-important in its ends, and in its capacity for improvement far beyond the vaunted results of hybridising. Wo know that persistence in seed-gathering and seed-sowing, which is but one form of asking Nature to unlock her stores of jewels, garnered of long cultivation, has given these results, but seedling manipulators have claimed them as being gained of intricate crossing, clever interbreeding, &:c., though they are as far beyond their reach in a majority of cases, as they exceed their expectations. Truly in past culture lies the riches of the florist, and he needs little but space of ground for seedlings, and time and means to grow and bloom them, to realise this truth. I admit that hybridising aids materially in producing new types, by the crossing of distinct species of plants, but it is not essential, if, indeed, requisite, for either the formation of double blossoms or the enlargement and rounding of the petals of existing varieties — including the improvement of existing types ; while from a floral or culinary point of view, if it has had any influence in this direction, it is not nearly to the extent which is claimed. Long-con¬ tinued and good cultivation is the mainspring of two-thirds of the successes which are realised, so much so, that culture and actual improvement ought to be regarded as synonyms. That the selection of seedlings — following out the royal road of high cultivation — is necessary to insure the most rapid progress, none can doubt ; for by this means culture and progression go hand-in- hand ; the means are acknowledged, and the reward, that is, the improvement, is hastened. If I have opened up a new channel of thought for young aspirants, let me also add that they can hardly hope to succeed thoroughly, unless they use judgment in the selection of subjects to operate upon — subjects that have been long under some kind of culture ; but having made their choice, let them feed and maintain the seed-parents in the richest of soils, throwing all the vigour of the plant into a few seeds, — that is, adopting high-culture as the best possible method of obtaining an improved progeny. — William Earley, Valentines. NOTES ON MELONS AND CUCUMBEKS. fqN the raising of so-called new varieties of Melons and Cucumbers, as in the 3 making of books, there seems to be no limit. I believe, however, as regards Melons and Cucumbers, that the supply is overdone, for there is really no advance made at the present time, either as to quality or productive¬ ness. As far back as I can remember in Melon-growing, we had the old Egyptian Green-jieslied., and now in the green-fleshed section there is no modern variety better flavoured, and next to it, the Beecliwood. Amongst the scarlet-fleshed Melons, what sort excels the Scarlet Gem for flavour ? And some others, such as Bead’s Hybrid and Gilbert’s Victory of Bath have, I have no doubt, some of the same strain in them, from their excellence. The seeds of the new sorts of Melons, 1S77.] ECONOMY OF SPACE IN SMALL GAEDENS. 83 wliicli are sent out at a stiffish price, very soon get hybridised and mixed, and then disappear as distinctive kinds in collections. I find the best and safest mode in Melon culture is to keep growing only the particular varieties found suitable for early and late bearing, free in setting, and of good flavour. To keep the seed of such kinds true to name, I grow a plant of each in a pot, and when they are setting their fruit, keep them isolated from one another. It is well known that it is quite a lottery to get Melons always of good flavour, for the same sorts differ much according to the season, soil, or treatment they have received. Perhaps the best test is to cut them before being quite ripe, and use them as soon as the stalk parts freely from the fruit. With regard to Cucumber-growing, the new varieties now sent out yearly are but little in advance of older sorts, being recommended principally by their size and shape. For show purposes, these kinds are, no doubt, desirable, but for eat¬ ing or stewing, such varieties as Iiollisson‘’s Telegraph and those of the Sion House section are to be preferred. Cucumbers of from 12 in. to 15 in. in length when young are quite long enough for use, and there is no waste from seeds ; and they can be grown in this section as plentifully in the winter as in summer, in a properly constructed pit or house. Some gardeners, I have no doubt, are in the habit, like me, of raising every spring an extra supply of Cucumber-plants to replenish their neighbours’ or the cottagers’ frames. I find they all ask now for the prolific short-growing kinds, as they can grow more fruit from them than they used to do when they tried growing longer varieties. — William Tillery, Welhech. ECONOMY OF SPACE IN SMALL GAEDENS. |N large gardens, where practical men of experience conduct the business, every pole of ground is. turned to the best account, some being marked for two crops a year, and all told off for one heavy return of, say, ten, twenty, or even a hundredfold. But in the artisan’s small patch of garden-ground, where heavy returns are most needed, we see both time and space wasted. Eighty or ninety days after Lady Day will give a crop of table Peas, and less time will mature a crop of Cauliflowers. Early Potatos will bo fit for the table long before the ninety days are come and gone. Lettuce-plants run rapidly into use ; boiled Lettuce is a tender vegetable, and as the plant has only to form leaves it comes early to perfection. So much for the reckoning as to time, and now for economy in space. If we were to ask the farmer why he does not sow three seeds where he now sows only one, he would smile at our simplicity, and say that his crop would be less by so doing, and the quality would also be inferior. Flax is sown thick that the crop may be drawn up manifold and slender, as it is grown by the manufacturer for the fibre of its straw ; but even flax has its limits, and requires a certain amount of space to develop its character. Now whilst all our kitchen-garden crops require room to grow and come to perfection, our aim should be to give 84 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, them just enough, but nothing more, and arrange if possible that one crop should come closely upon another, even if it does not lap over a little. First, then, of the tall, cumbersome crop of Peas. These are usually sepa¬ rated row from row by a distance of 3 ft. or 4 ft., but by putting the rows 9 ft. apart, there is room left for a low crop between, thereby effecting a saving of at least 2 ft. ; but if there be a pathway in the garden, by all -means turn that to account by arching it over with pea-sticks, and then growing any of the tall-growing kinds of pea or scarlet-runner, interspersed with Nasturtiums, for by this means a beautiful vista will be obtained, as well as something more substantial for the pot. Where, however, a little expense can be gone to, I would advise the walks to be arched over, and fruit-trees and bushes to be grown. I advocated this plan many years ago, and have lived to see it carried out hand¬ somely in high quarters, thus bringing the needfuhwalks and paths into good service, economising space, and adding beauty to the dull kitchen-garden. Another important item in the economy of space is deep cultivation, for next to width is depth, and mere delving a few inches deep for a crop of any import¬ ance is but a poor mockery. The roots go downward, and whatever food is to meet them should be • set in their run. Trenching a foot deep and manuring well in the bottom of the trench, will give the crop a stay against changes of either wet or dry weather. In the case of Early Potatos, the season may be lengthened by forwarding the sets in flat boxes, kept in any warm room until the season admits of their being planted out. Acres are cropped in this way in Cheshire to catch the sale of new Potatos. Cabbages and Lettuces may be forwarded in little space, and gain some four or flve weeks’ time against seedlings. Turnips will be in good time if sown after the ground is cleared of Peas and Potatos. All the winter Broccolis are eligible for second crops, and Coleworts bring up the forlorn hope of a thick-set bed of heartless cabbage-leaves. In mild weather in autumn these will grow when most other vegetables are brought to a stand-still, and therefore seedlings should be kept in readiness to plant out wherever there is a spot unoccupied ; for we shall find the land growing weeds, if we do not give it anything more profitable to do. Groundsel and chickweed flowering under a hedge in frosty weather, show the sluggard how nature pushes on the business of vegetable life under difficulties. A scarlet-runner Bean planted in a quart of good soil will run up a pack-thread against the cottage wall and flower and fruit freely ; and should there be any corner not over-sweet, a plant or two of the Vegetable Marrow, whose home is on the manure-heap, will “ hide the ruin that it feeds upon,” climbing and holding fast to any sticks or branches, alive or dead, within its reach, and withal it will be found no mean dish for the dinner-table. What I wish to impress upon my friends of the small holdings is to measure before-hand what time and what space each article will require, and sow or plant accordingly. If wo take the case of a Drumhead Cabbage, it will take a square yard of space and a whole year of time to come to perfection ; sown in August, Begonia Davisii vV.H, Fitch del 1877. ] BEGONIA DAVISII. 85 planted out in tlie following March, it will yield the heaviest return of any crop, whether in field or garden ; whereas the early garden Cabbages will do well with six plants to every nine square feet, and occupy the ground for only half the summer. Small salad, such as Mustard and Cress, may be grown in any shady nook, and be harvested half-a-dozen times in a summer. It is quite pitiful to see the square miles of moor and fell, bearing only besom-timber, that would bear trees, and might be otherwise improved to profit. There is no want of space, but the times and seasons pass over these barren wastes, and leave no blessing behind. Here and there we see some of our great landed proprietors draining a lake or reclaiming a moss to grow grain and roots, or planting a hill-side or the root of some mountain for the sake of the shelter, as well as for the trees, which always command a ready sale. The enormous amount of railway-sleepers wanted might waken those who have time and space to lay the foundations of their fortune in the Bank of Earth. — Alex. Foesyth, Salford. BEGONIA DAVISII. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. BEAUTIFUL dwarf-growing species of Begonia.^ recently introduced by Messrs. Veitch and Sons, of Chelsea, from whose plants our illustration was prepared. It was discovered by Mr. Davis, after whom it is named, near Chupe, in Peru, at an elevation of 10,000 feet, and is, therefore, probably nearly or quite as hardy as B. Veitcliii.^ which comes from the same country. Its dwarf habit and brilliant colour will render it a valuable plant for the hybridiser, and we may expect to see its blood shortly imported into the race of tuberous-rooted Begonias, which have recently become so valuable as decora¬ tive objects, both for the greenhouse and the open borders during summer. The present plant was certificated at South Kensington, when exhibited there in August last. As will be seen from our figure. Begonia Davisii is a stemless plant, bearing several radical, spreading, oblique and broadly ovate-cordate leaves, glossy above, with a few hairs, and pallid ribs, deep purplish-red beneath, the margins being indistinctly lobulate and crenulate. The flowers, which are of a rich clear crimson-scarlet, are produced, three together, at the top of simple bright red, glabrous scapes, and enclosed by a pair of bluntly, oblong, concave ciliated crimson bracts, the centre flower being male, and the two lateral ones female. The male flower is somewhat the largest, and measures upwards of two inches across the face. In the centre there is in the males a tuft of eight or ton small yellow stamens, and in the females three styles with twisted horseshoe-shaped yellow stigmas. The roots are tuberous. As a dwarf neat-habited high-coloured species of Begonia.^ this plant is one which will be welcomed in gardens where variety in the elements of floral decora¬ tion is esteemed as it ought to be ; and along with the hybrids of B. holioiensis and allied kinds, it will, when well grown, be no unworthy summer ornament of 86 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, the greenhouse or conservatory. It will probably also prove useful for hybridising. The thanks of plant-lovers are therefore due to Messrs. Veitch for the increased pleasure this plant is capable of affording them. — T. Moore. THE CULTUKE OF WALL FEUITS. Chapter IX. — The Peach and Nectarine {continued). arrived at a stage in the management of both the roots and branches beyond which all previous observations will apply for a series of years, as the only difference will consist in the natural annual ex¬ tension in size ; and the practice of training-in bearing wood to keep the trees well furnished must be followed up in the manner advised for younger trees. But here I must throw out an admonitory hint with regard to the crop¬ ping of the trees, as their longevity and well-doing will very greatly depend upon the manner in which this important part of fruit-tree management is regulated. The evils attendant upon overcropping are singularly apparent in the case of the Peach and Nectarine, which at the best have only a tender constitution in this country ; and being at the same time, under favom’able conditions, very generous in fruit-bearing as they approach their prime, the temptation to take more fruit than is good for the continued healthy action of the growth, is very great ; but it should by all means be resisted, or the foundation will be laid of a premature decay of the tree. Although we are taught by experience that, as a general rule, the Peach is not a long-lived tree in this country in the open air, even in those parts of it which are found to be most suitable for its growth, yet I have no doubt whatever that decay is very often induced and accelerated by overcropping. In the younger stages the trees are naturally very vigorous in growth, and what at an advanced age we should call overcropping, is at that time, one of those restrictive means at our command by which we are enabled to maintain some degree of control over the vigour of the trees ; but there comes a time when the situation is reversed, and the tree, instead of being over-vigorous, will only throw out smaller but very fruitful wood. This is the time when it becomes dangerous to take too much fruit, and hence the necessity for encourag¬ ing the growth of the wood becomes obvious, and by a parity of reasoning the necessity for greatly reducing the amount of fruit taken from them. This, as I conceive, is what is intended by practical cultivators when they inculcate the necessity for maintaining the balance of the trees, which cannot be maintained if either fruit is taken in excess or a vigorous growth allowed to remain un¬ checked. As a further inducement to avoid overcropping, we should take into con¬ sideration another fact connected with the subject. Our great object in all the manipulations which we have heretofore had under consideration terminates at one point, viz., the production of a fair supply of fruit, and it would be a matter for regret if, after the expenditure of so much time and labour, that fruit should not be the best of its kind. Yet how often do we see that such is not the case, 1S77. ] THE CARNATION AND PICOTEE. - CHAPTER XVI. 87 for fruits deficient both in size and flavour are too frequently met with ; and if such instances could be traced to their course, I feel no manner of doubt but that it would be found that quality has been sacrificed to quantity. When I read accounts of the many dozens of fruits which have been taken from one tree, I feel almost to pity the generous tree, and feel convinced that the cultivator would have had more satisfaction in taking only half the quantity, which would probably have made all the difference between perfection and mediocrity in the fruit itself — besides its influence on the tree — either giving it a good lift towards extinction, or enabling it for many years to yield a sufficiently abundant pro¬ duce. Let us remember that trees which have arrived at a healthy and well- developed prime are far more easy and satisfactory in their management, for they seem, as it "were, to settle down to their work, and having thrown off the superabundant vigour of youth, to commence that generous return of frait which is the ultimate object of their existence ; and it is by economising the strength which is necessary for its production, that they may be made to continue to yield a fair supply for many years. But simultaneously with all the foregoing operations connected with the training and manipulation of the roots and branches, there are several others which are equally important to the well-doing of the trees and the perfection of the fruit, and to which a due share of attention must be paid during the whole of the time they have been in progress, and to them I will advert in my next chapter. — -John Cox, Redleaf. THE CARNATION AND PICOTEE. Chapter XVI. — Descriptions of the Best Varieties, Old and New (continued). next in order are the brilliant Scarlet Flake Carnations. Anxiuilator (Jackson). — A seedling evidently from Admiral Curzon, S.B., ■which it closely follows in its habit of growth and flower, save that it has no bizarre. It is a fine variety, and well deserving wide cultivation. I see, however, no warrant in its properties for its fearfully bellicose name, for certainly it in no point transcends Sports¬ man or John Bayley, both which were in cultivation when Annihilator was originated. Florists, as a body, are gentle and placable men, and though warm upholders of their various favourites, are little given to exterminations or annihilations, except as applied to the pests of the garden. We must assume, therefore, some distemper of our late friend’s imagination when ho adopted such an unwholesome designation. A good grower, but should on no account be highly stimulated. Medium early in bloom. First bloomed in 18G5 ; sent out in 18G7. Clipper (Fletcher). — Raised at North Brierley, near Bradford, from seed taken from John Bayley, this variety closely follows its parent in habit of flower, though slightly different in its habit of growth, being freer, narrower, and more elongated in its grass. A very fine sort. Sent out in 1873. Mr. Rudd says of it : — “ With me it has constantly been the best Scarlet Flake in my collection.” It has a fine broad, smooth petal, well continued to the crown, fine white, and very brilliant scarlet ; will carry two, sometimes three, flowers to a plant. Being very high in colour, it should not bo strongly stimulated, but growing- freely, it must not bo cramped for room in its blooming quarters. Medium early in bloom.” James Ciieetiiam (Chadwick). — Raised from mixed seed by the late Mr. William Chadwick, of Dukinfield, and first bloomed in 1859, when also it Avas sent out, I have little doubt it springs from Sportsman, or Curzon, the parent of Sportsman, Avhich it closely follows in its habit of flower, and much resembles in its grass. It is, however, vory distinct, having a rich dense scarlet, in place of the bright scarlet of Sportsman. Petal broad, smooth, 88 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOOIST. t April, and of great substance, white extra, markings dense and well defined, it is one of the best S.F.’s in cultivation, beautiful alike on the home stage and exhibition- table. A good grower. John Bayley (Dodwell). — “ A seedling from Admiral Curzon, S.B. ; it closely follows the habit of that superb variety, whilst it vies with it in its rich quality, pure white, brilliant scarlet, smoothness, and substance. It is remarkably constant, and has a fine habit of growth. Grown against every first-class variety known to E. S. D., including Sportsman ; it has fairly surpassed all, being brighter and purer in the white than even that celebrated sort.” This was my description in 1857, when it was placed, as our French friends say, “ in com¬ merce,” and the description was approved by its subsequent attainments on the exhibition- table. Twenty years have, however, somewhat dimmed its lustre and diminished its stamina, and now I should certainly say Sportsman is the better variety. Illuminator (Puxley). — One of the later varieties of this celebrated raiser, and worth cultivation, having a good broad petal, good habit, good white, and brilliant colour. It also is a good grower, 3’^et not quite first-class, wanting the refinement of Clipper, James Cheetham, John Bayley, Sportsman, and Superb, the two latter to be presently described. Mr. Battersby (Gibbons). — Raised by the late Mr. Thomas Gibbons, of Bramcote, near Nottingham, and named after the late Mr. Battersby, oi Mansfield. Has a beautiful white ground, and very distinct though narrow markings of light scarlet, but the petal is scarcely so broad as is desirable. Habit of grass stout and broad, though, with me, by no means a robust grower. Sportsman (Hedderley). — A sport from Admiral Curzon; originated in 1855 in the collection of Mr. John Hedderley, then of Sneinton, Notts ; like its parent, it went at one bound to the head of its class, taking the whole of the prizes in its class at the exhibition of the National Carnation and Picotee Society the following year at Birmingham, and the lion’s share during the same season at provincial exhibitions of note. Differing from its parent only that it is without bizarre, it should have the same treatment both for its growth and in its blooming, and wherever this is intelligently given, the result will leave little to be desired. Though getting well into years as the years of a Carnation go, it is yet hale and robust, and shows no sign of waning powers. It is needless to say no collection can be com¬ plete without it. Superb (Ingram). — Raised by the late Mr. Ingram (of Wood and Ingram, of Huntingdon), from mixed seed. First bloomed in 1870, sent out in 1874. Obtained First-class Certificate at the Royal Horticultural Society in 1872, which it -well deserved. Fine petal, fine form and habit, lustrous white ground, with very distinct markings of rich colour, great substance, and exquisitely smooth, it well deserves its name, and will, I believe, please the most fasti¬ dious taste. Wm. Harland (Harland).* — Raised at Newcastle-on-Tyne. A seedling from Sportsman, it has a splendid petal, and is a most beautiful flower; but like most North-country flowers, I suppose from the habit there generally followed of growing their stocks in raised 6eds, it does not do well with me in pots. It, however, well deserves attention at the hands of the grower for its good properties. Like its progenitor, it is inclined to sport, and has produced John Burnett, S.B. ; described at page 17 of this volume. (Mr. Rudd is by no means singular in this experience. I have rarely known layers taken from the open ground to give good flowers or satisfactory growth the first season after being transfen’ed to pots. But pot-culti¬ vation, in my experience, has invariably produced greater refinement in the flowers.) Last class of all, in Carnations, we come to the lovely Eose Flakes : — Crista-galli (Whittaker). — I saw this flower for the first time at the National Carnation and Picotee’s Society’s Exhibition at Manchester last year, where it won the fifth prize in its class, but what I saw of it evoked my warm admiration. Raised at Royton, in Lanca¬ shire, from self-fertilised seed of Lovely Ann (Ely), it is remarkable for its fine white ground, and very distinct through-markings of rich rose. Not a splash ov flash was to be found in the entire flower, whilst in addition to its fine quality and distinct markings, it has a fine form, and a well-formed petal, of good substance and perfectly smooth. Apparently a kindly grower. First bloomed in 1868 ; sent out in 1873. E. S. Dodwell (Bower). — Another seedling, evidently of the Lovely- Ann family, btit very distinct from the preceding, being far more full of colour. Medium in size, fine in quality, richly-marked, of good substance and smooth, this is a most desirable variety, and when available will, I think, be eagerly sought for, even in a class so rich as this in variety. First bloomed in 1872 ; not yet sent out. James Carter* (Adams). — Raised at Newcastle-upon-Tyne, by Mr. Edward Adams, and sent out in 1875. This is one of the very best of the pale roses we have. In the shape of its petal it follows Rifleman, C.B., and is beautifully striped with a pale rose. Fonn good, size 1877, ] THE CARNATION AND PICOTEE. - CHAPTER XVI. 8U large, and oaiiy in liower. Should be grown well, and will carry two to throe llowors on each plant. Parentage unknown. James Merryweather (Wood). — Another of the fine productions of Mr, Edmund Wood, sulHcient, oven did it stand alone, to ensure him long remcmbrauco in the minds of Carnation- growers. A seedling, I have little doubt, of the Lovely- Ann family, it has a petal which is the perfection of .shape, broad, smooth, of line substance, and richest quality; markings bold, — distinct through-stripes, and full of variety, form tine, size large, and an admirable grower, no collection can be complete without this variety, and it worthily commemorates the name of a most excellent, enthusiastic florist, who was esteemed in life by all who had the privilege to know him. First bloomed in ISGo ; sent out in 1869. My friend Mr. Rudd has for¬ warded me a plant of this variety which had sported into a Crimson Bizarre, of which he .says, If constant, it will prove one of the finest C.B.’s pos.siblo to be seen.” John Keet (Whitehead). — Raised at Oldham from mixed seed, but I have little doubt, like James Merryweather, of Lovely Ann extraction, this is another of the varieties of a rich class which can scarcely bo too highly extolled. Largo in size, tine in form, of great substance, smooth, richly marked with through-stripes, — lovely in their variety, though all distinct, — admirable in its habit, and robust in its growth, it is difficult to imagine higher attainment than is hero developed. Comes early into bloom, but, as from its vigour, many of the strongest side-shoots run to bloom, it may also l)ehad amongst the latest. In ordinary cases, my practice is to stop ” the side-shoots as they start for bloom, and thus generally I get a large addition to the increase ; but finding John Keet to be an exception to the rule, I recommend allowing the shoots to run, and thus a few fine late dowers will be secured. Grow generously, but, as with every other variety of Carnation or l^icotee, carefully avoid the use of crude forcing stimulants. Lovely Ann (Ely). — .“Raised from Wakefield’s Paail Pry, C.B., and sent out in 1836. 3Iuch the best R.F. bearing Mr. Ely’s name, though Lady Ely is shown probably twice as often. As used to be the fashion some years ago, when the trade in fiowers was not so healthy as it now is, spurious varieties have been largely distributed for this. Indeed, in my ex- i:)erience I have bloomed no less than 7ii7ie, so-called. Lovely Anns, and many fiorists do not now know the true one. Lovely Ann correct and in good character is indeed lovely ; the petal broad, very .smooth, gently cupped, of good substance and rich texture ; the white clear, and the colour, a rich rose, not a deep rose, admirably distributed. The distribution is not, as in Lady Ely, in stripes of almost uniform width in every petal, but of varied widths, giving the flower a less stiff and a more sweet and sunple character, to my taste far more engaging, though Ann, like some other very lovely ladies, can upon occasion be qixite sufii- ciontly covmanduig in her style. Of average size when well grown, and well crowned, with¬ out any confusion. The habit of grass is narrow, curled, and if touched with greeu-fiy will become twisted and distorted. A delicate grower, and requires csreful treatment during the Avinter and early spring months. Must be groAvu in a kind, generous soil, and as the buds swell, tAvo or three applications of Aveak, clear manure-Avater Avill much advantage the bloom.” This AA'as my description of 1853, and though noAv nearly a quarter of a century has elapsed, it needs no emendation. Alone of the Rose Flakes then described, it remains in my collection, and though from its delicate habit such a result might scarcely liaA-e been anticipated, it has been the parent immediately, or Avith a generation removed, not only of several fioAvers of the finest quality in the class, but of varieties of the most robust and kindliest habit. Mary" Ann* (Fletcher). — Raised at North Brierley, near Bradford. Sent out in 1873. A very large full flower, heavily flaked Avith deep rose. The petals are very stiff and leathery in texture, and apt,^! not bloomed upon a card, to curl, Avhen the fioAver is Avorthloss. Though uncertain in its character, it is, when caught, a really beautiful variety. Requires good groAvth ; Avill carry tAvo to three lloAvers on each plant. IMedium in its period of bloom. IMaid of Athens (Ely). — An old variety, though I am unable to give the date of its in¬ troduction, and one AA’hich, in several localities, for some years did duty for the same raiser’s Lovely Ann. It is, hoAvever, very distinct from Lovely Ann, both in the habit of itsgroAvth, and the colour and characteristics of the flower. It has a Avell-shaped and Avell-marked petal, and a good-formed floAvor, but both white and colour are far behind the high quality and richness of Lovely Ann. Habit of grass, narrow, lino, exuberant : a good groAver. Merri-aiac (Wood). — A good bold fioAver; lino form and substance; Avhite, pure, Avith Avell-defined markings of bright rose ; good pod, and a smooth petal ; constant, and a good habit of groAvth. Sent out prior to Eccentric Jack and others ; one of E. Wood’s earlier seedlings. (I am indebted to my friend Mr. H. M. HoAvitt, of Chesterfield, for this description.) Mrs. F. Burnaby (Turner). — First bloomed in 1870. Sent out in 1873. As seen by mo at Slough in 1875, one of the SAA’eetest delicate pale ro.ses I have ever seen, but, unfortunately, judging from its behaviour in my garden, it lacks robustness of constitution, and consequently both plants aiid fiowers Avore a disappointment. In more open situations, and Avith a purer 1 90 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ Apuil, air, it may give similar flowers to those I saw in the home of its birth, and such flowers, though of little use to the exhibitor, would, I think, gratify a taste refined to fastidiousness. Mrs. Dodwell. — Raised by my friend, Mr. Robert Lord, of Todmordeu. A seedling from Uncle Tom, R.F., crossed with pollen from John Keet, R.F.,both parents, as I believe, of Lovely Ann descent, — this variety exhibits qualities of the highest excellence, such, indeed, as may bo equalled, but scarcely can be surpassed. Form fine, flower large ; petal broad, gently cupped, smooth, and of great substance ; markings distinct and various, — colour rich, upon an exquisite white ground ; it is difficult to imagine loveliness carried to a higher point. It is also a good grower. First bloomed in 1873 ; to be sent out next autumn. Rosai5Elle (Schofield). — Habit of plant dwarf ; grass plentiful and healthy, clustering in dense tufts round the base. Both plant and flower very distinct from any other, save that it follows in some respects Samuel Moreton (Addis) and Rose of Castile (Headly), but it is superior to either. The flowers are very full, and require careful manipulation to prevent the bursting of the pods. The outline of the flower is good, petals smooth and distinctly marked with pale rose, rather brighter in its hue than that of Mrs. F. Burnaby. Should bo grown for its beauty on the home stage, though too pale for exhibition. (My friend Mr. Douglas kindly supiflies the above.) Rose of Stapleford (Headly). — A very distinct and desirable variety ; a seedling possibly from Rose of Castile, which in its day deservedly occupied a very prominent posi¬ tion. Grass line, flowing, and plentiful ; petal of medium width, smooth, and well marked ; white ground excellent ; colour rich, and well distributed. Lasts a long time in flower. Sibyl (Holmes). — Raised at 'Wakefield, from self-fertilised seed of Lovely Ann, which with an additional robustness and larger size, it closely follows in grass and flower. A lovely variety, remarkable, like others of the Lovely Ann family, for its pure white ground, and the richness and distinctness of its markings. Petal broad, smooth, of good substance, and gently cupped; form fine, size large. First bloomed in 1861) ; sent out in 1873. Uncle Tom (Bramma). — Another variety of Lovely Ann descent, unquestionably. Raised in the neighbourhood of Leeds, I believe, and sent out about 21 or 22 years ago, it is yet a good old variety, of good form, good substance, and liberally marked with a rich salmon-rose. Apt to spindle in autumn and eaily spring, and should not be overgrown. Wm. Carrick* (Adams). — Sent out in 1875, this variety closely follows the characteris¬ tics of James Carter, by the same raiser, previously described, and is, I assume, from the same pod of seed. It is, however, later in its period of bloom, and not so strong in growth. Will carry one to two flowers on each plant. — E. S. Dodwell. VILLA (lAEDENING FOR APRIL. FAIR spell of sunshine, though accompanied with cold winds and keen frosts, has yet brought on many things with great rapidity, and the general advance which has taken place in vegetation denotes the advent of the more genial season of the year. The Cold Greenhouse : Two sharp frosts, following on successive evenings, left their mark on a few tender things, but little appreciable damage was done where a collection of hardy is grown ; they are now the fairest representatives of the gifts of the gladsome spring-time. How much better some of these beau¬ tiful subjects deserve care and attention than a collection of summer-bedding plants such as Pelargoniums, Calceolarias, Verbenas, &c. The latter are of a very uninteresting character just now, but spring-flowering plants are either in or coming into all the glory of their bloom. In addition to the species named last month, there are also Auriculas, both show and Alpine Polyanthuses of vari¬ ous kinds ; Narcissi, and many subjects, including some grown for the beauty of their foliage, that are very attractive just now. As the plants go out of bloom they may be stood out of doors under a shady wall, on an ash-bed, and covered with a mat or newspapers, when frost threatens. This makes room for Pelargoniums, Fuchsias, &:c., as they come on into bloom. The Warm Greenhouse : In addition to a good display of flowering-plants, which require much care during the lengthening days in the matters of watering. 1877. ] VILLA GARDENING FOR APRIL cleaning, &c, there is also the important work of propagation. By striking cuttings, and by raising seedlings, the Amateur keeps up a supply of the needful plants for the decoration of his garden just when they are needed ; and these two occupations are among the highest enjoyments of a garden. Stock-plants — that is, plants kept througli the winter — of such things as Fuchsias, Petunias, Ver¬ benas, Lobelias, Salvia patens, and many other of the best-known bedding-plants, if placed in the propagating-frame, soon throw out a number of shoots of which cuttings can be made. Then there are plants, such as Fuchsias, Pelargoniums, &:c., raised from cuttings at the end of last summer, which require shifting to be grown on for summer service. And it is a common fault to crowd a house too much with plants. This is a serious mistake, as they get drawn ; there is not space for each plant to assume its proper proportions, and they get unclean in appearance. Cinerarias, and Calceolarias in particular, require a great deal of attention just now ; their leaves are very apt to become infested with green-fly, which gives them a curled and unhealthy appearance. Air must be given in plent}'" as the sun increases in warmth, and the watering-pot will be in constant requisition. Fancy and large-flowering Pelargoniums, which are among the most valuable of decorative agents in a conservatory, likewise require constant atten¬ tion in the way of cleanliness ; and the fancy varieties should be kept in a warmer part of the house than their larger-flowered brethren. Cold Frames : The planting-out of hardy plants ma}^ now be pushed on as the soil becomes workable, and the advantage is that it leaves space in the frames for hardening-o£f spring-struck plants. The cold frame is also useful for making up seed-beds for Primrose, Polyanthus, and Alpine Auricula-seeds. Plants of these when sown in a frame come on more quickly than those sown in the open ground, and unless they are strong by autumn they do not flower well the following spring. Lilies in pots which have been shifted, newly potted Tigridias, Tritonia aurea, cuttings of Hollyhocks, and others should be placed in the cold frame, and not allowed to suffer for want of water. Flower-Garden : There are a good number of spring plants to furnish bloom through April, and tender plants can be kept under cover for some time yet. The Daffodils are getting fine, the common yellow is well-nigh over, but some of the fine single varieties are only coming into flower, and at no time of the year do gaudy hues of yellow and gold appear so acceptable as at the spring-time. Polyanthus, Anemones, Arabis, Alijssum saxatile, the large-leaved Saxifrages, Fritillarias, Doronicuni austriacwn, Honesty, Pansies, Daisies, &c., form a group that will be charming all through the month. We have no class of plants that can replace these fine old hardy things in the flower garden. By occasionally stirring the surface of the beds, and keeping them clear of decaying flowers and leaves and also of weeds, their appearance is much enhanced, and they can be maintained pleasant to the sight till the summer bedding-plants carry on the floral display. Kitchen Garden : Peas and Broad Beans for successive crops should be sown, and the main crop of Potatos planted. Advantage should be taken of drying weather to get all ground dug and prepared for cropping. Heavy soils have been practically unworkable for weeks past, and now they can be dug they will be much helped by’^ digging-in at the same time some long stable-manure and some mortar-rubbish, if it can be obtained. This will tend to keep the soil open. Carrot, Parsnip, Onion, and all garden-seed crops should be sown without delay. Early Peas and Beans coming through the ground can have the soil stirred about them, and a little earth drawn up about them. Successional sowings of Mustard and Cress, and of Radishes should also be made. I 2 02 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April. All wall-trees as well as pyramid Plums and Pears are coming on into bloom, and seeing that white frosts are certain to follow clear sunny days, some cover¬ ing for the wall-trees at least should be provided. It should lie on a frame¬ work, so as to prevent the blossoms from being rubbed off, when it is let down over the trees ; and it should be tied down securely, to keep it from being blown against the trees with the wind. The covering should be rolled up by day, to allow the trees to have all the sun and air possible. — D. GAEDEN GOSSIP. «lHE Exhihiiioii of the Iloyal National Tdlip Society for 1877, will be held i' at the Manchester Botanical Society’s Ixardens, Old Trafford, on Whit- Friday, May 25th, and will remain open until 4 o’clock p.m. the following day. It will be held in conjunction with the Society’s Great Annual Exbihition, and a special one for cut roses, bouquets, dinner-table decorations, A'c., which will open and close at the same time as the Exhibition of the Royal National Tulip Society. The prospects of a good exhibition are favourable; up to the present time an unusual number of subscribers are ^enrolled, including many new ones. Adi who are interested in the show, or in helping forward the cultivation of the Tulip, should place themselves in communication with the hon, secretary, Samuel Barlow, Esq., Stakehill Idouse, Chadderton, near Manchester, from whom schedules of prizes, and all information can be had. No entries can be received •after April 28. — ; — ®HE National Auricula Society will hold its next (northern) exhibition at Manchester, in connection with the Show of the Botanical Society in the Town Hall, on April 27. The prize-list, which may be had on application to the hon. sec.. Rev. F. D. Horner, Kirkby Malzeard, Ripon, is a liberal one, the prizes offered amount¬ ing to about £-1-5. Ther? are classes for G, 4, and 2 .show Auriculas, and separate classes for single plants of the four sections ; a class for Alpines, and separate ones for single plants of yellow-ceutrod and of white-centred Alpines; and two classes for Polyanthuses, besides a few special prizes. The rules require that the trusses shall be .shown free from all artificial pack¬ ing and support. The judges nominated ai*e Itev. 1^. Tymon, ]\Ir. .T. Idepworth, IMr. J. Douglas (York), Mr. E. Polilman, Mr. W. Tayloi’, and Mr. J. Cockroft. Intending exhibitors are to apply to the Secretary not later than April 21, for the exhibition-labels they may require. - ^'HE Pelaryonimn Society is cpiietly doing good work in the special encouragement of the different classes of this popular Rower. The prize-list for the Show to be held on .Tune 20 next has just been issued ; and comprises some twenty-four classes, amongst which considerably over £lf)0 are offered as prize-money. The date has been fixed especially to fit the blooming season ; and not only tlie Zonals, but the large-flowered .show sorts, the fancies, the hybrid Ivy-leaved sorts, and the Cape species are provided for, libej-al prizes being’ offered for each. That the limit of improvement or of variation in the Pelargonium is not reached is quite evident, since .scarcely anything has yet been done with the cut-leaved, scented-leaved, and tuberou.s-rooted kinds. To carry forward its work the Society needs more support, which ought to be forthcoming from amongst the admirers of the several grou]is of Pelargoniums. The schedule may be had on api)lication to ]Mi’. IMoore, Botanic Garclen, Chelsea. - ®HE National Hose Society^ founded in December last, has alread}' received such support from the leading Rosarians, both amadeur and professional,, that it may bo regarded as fairly established. The objects of the Society are to extend and encourage by every means in its power the cultivation and exhibition of the Rose, and to unite those who are interested in it, in a common bond of union. To this end it i.s proposed to institute a Grand National Rose Show, to be held annually, which .shall bo con¬ sidered the Rose Show of the year, and at which liberal prizes will be offered. It is proposed also to affiliate such existing Rose Societies as may be willing to join ; to hold meetings for discussion on subjects connected with the Rose; to publish a Journal; to open communica- 1877. ] GARDEN GOSSIP. 93 tion with foreign roae-grower.s ; and generally to adopt any means which may appear ad¬ vantageous to Rose interests. The Show for 1877 has been fixed to take place at St. James’ Hall on Jnly d, for which tho prize schedule has been issued. Amongst the prizes is a 50-guinea chal¬ lenge cup, ^yhich must be won in throe years, tho winners of 1877 and 1878 being alone com¬ petent to compete in 1870. Tho joint secretaries are Rev. H. H. Dombrain and Horace K. JNIayor ; and the annual subscription is lOs. Thoso who desire to support tho Society should address the Secretaries of tho National Rose Society, 3 Adelphi Terrace, W.C., where the meetings of the Society are held, by permission of the Horticultural Club - IKb. Burbidge’s new book, entitled Cultivated Plants^ their Propaga¬ tion and Imjorovement, wbicli we mentioned some time since as being in prepara¬ tion, proves to be one of the most valuable horticultural publications which has for a long time appeared, and one which will be particularly useful to the thoughtful and studious younger members of the gardening fraternity. No such judiciou.sly-selected and well-assorted information was ready to the hand of their fore-runners — those who are now descending the hill of life — and no better evidence is necessary of the progress which horti- culturo is making in this country, notwithstanding some sore discouragements, than the appearance of this handsome and solid volume of more than 600 pages and nearly 200 illustrations. Practically, its contents may be said to range under three divi¬ sions, — namely, Propagation, as explained in its various phases ; Improvement in plants, as illiistrated by the records of progress in the most prominent amongst garden genera and species, Avhether useful or ornamental; and Direction, as set forth in a detailed propagator’s calendar. In the second division, recording the succes¬ sive stages of improvement through which many of our garden plants have passed, it is to bo expected that some readers here and there may be able to supply scraps of addition and correction, and we are sure the author will join us in expressing a wish that any such information should be made public for the benefit of those Avho may follow up tho subject; meanAvhile we commend the volume as one well worthy of careful study by every intelligent horticulturist, whether amateur or professional. We shall probably hereafter ourselves recur to some of tho subjects mentioned, but for tho present conclude in the words of a contem¬ porary : — “ The present Avork Avill, avo hope, do much toAvards inducing our raisers of noAV plants and florists’ flowers to systematise their experiments, to start Avitha Avell-delined object, to pursue it steadily and carefully, and to record every step in the process, every failure, as Avoll as CA^ery success, Avith strict accuracy,” as an accession to scientific knoAvledge, and in order to lighten the difficulties of those ayIio may after them travel over tho same path. - ^HE Committee of the Standish Memorial Fund lias recently issued its report, from wbicli we learn that a sum of £61 7s. Gd. was subscribed. This sum has sufficed to procure a portrait of the late Mr. Standish, painted by F. Havill, Avhich portrait is hung, by permission of the Council, in the meeting-room of tho Royal Horticultural Society at South Kensington, the OAvnership thereof being invested in the Trustees of the Lindley Library ; and to place a stone and curbing over Mr. Standish’s grave in Ascot Churchyard, bearing the inscription : — “ This stone is erected by a foAv personal friends to the memory of John St.vndish, nurseryman, born ]Ma]cb 25, 18l4, died July 24, 1875.” IMr. (libbs, by Avhom the monument Avas erected, substituted polished granite for stone, at his owji (sxponse, as a mark of personal regard. — m. Joseph Waltiikry, a gardener residing near Liege, has discovered a simple means of Preventing II are^< and Pahhits from Gnawing the Baric of Trees, which he strongly recommends as being certain and inexpensive. The remedy Avas in his own case applied to a row of Apple-trees, Avhich Avore year after year stri])ped of their bark, especially during scA’ere Aveather. One day in November, it occui'red to jM. ^Valth(;ry to dilute some dog’s dung in a pail of Avater, and to apply this to tho bark of the trees. This was done tAvice, and Avith full success, for the hares and rabbits did not come any more. Pro])H])ly, ho says, the scent of tho excrement of their dangerous enemy kept them at a distance, and the seasoning not being to their taste, they Avent elscAvhero in search of food. - ^HE curious Witch Knots on the Birch — those great masses of twigs looking like large bird’s nests fallen in amongst the branches of the birch tree — are caused by the attack of a minute four-legged acarus {Phytoptus\ very similiar 94 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, to the one causing mnch mischief to young huds of the black currant. In the autumn leaf- buds are observable, distinguishable from the natural smooth lanceolate shape by their swollen appearance, being roughly spherical, comparatively large, and composed of loosely inbricated scales. In November the Phytoptus may be found in these buds, and it continues active through the winter. About the beginning of February these scales will drop to a touch, and show inside a short thickened axis, beset with numerous very minute round buds at the base of the scales — the beginning of the future diseased mass of twigs. The credit of this discovery belongs to Miss Ormerod. - ®HE Belgian committee established for the purpose of erecting a monu¬ ment to the Memory of the late Louis Van Iloutte^ have decided on erecting the monument in a new square about to be constructed in the suburb of Gendbrugge, wherein Van Houtte acted as burgomaster for n&arly a quarter of a century. The square wdll be called the Place Van Houtte, and will form part of a new street which will pass in the immediate vicinity of the establishment founded by Van Houtte. The sum subscribed in England for the same object is to be invested, and the interest to be offered as a prize (medal or cup) at the Ghent Quinquennial Shows, for the culture of stove and greenhouse flowering-plants. - ®E learn from the Gardeners^ Chronicle that Mr. Wildsmith, of Heckfield, finds wood-ashes to be the best manure he can use for Vines. He there¬ fore impounds every stick and stump he can lay his hands on, and has his fire going during most of the winter, by which means he secures an abundant supply of the pot¬ ash which his vines so much relish. - 3In a communication read by M. Boutin before the French Academy of Sciences, relating to the study of comparative analyses of several varieties of American Vine-stoclcs^ resistant and non-resistant to the Phylloxera, it is stated that there has been found in all American stocks a resinoid principle, which, indeed, exists also in French stocks, but in quantity one-half less than in the resistant American stocks, and one-third less than in the non-i'esistant. The resistance is accounted for by the presence of this principle in a proportion not under 8 per cent, in the entire root, and 14 to 15 per cent, in the bark alone, for though the punctures made by the insect cause nodosities on the root, yet are they cicatrised by exudation of the resinous produce, and this prevents loss of the nutritious juices of the plant. No such cicatrisation occurs in the non-resistant stocks, the resinous matter not being sufficiently abundant. - ^HE Guide Pratique de V Amateur de Fruits^ by the late M. Thomas, manager of the fruit-tree department in the nurseries of MM. Simon-Louis freres, of Plantieres, near Metz, is a very useful catalogue of fruits. The number of varieties described is 4,354, only 290 of which are designated as of the first class, and 2,495 are still under trial. The enumeration includes some 10,000 synonyms ! Thus the May Duke Cherry has sixty-two ; the Grosse Mignonne Pear, fifty-one ; and the Catillac, sixty-eight ; the Frankenthal Grape (Black Hamburgh), fifty-five, and the Chasselas de Fontainbleau (Royal Muscadine), forty-one synonyms. Fruit-growers, and all interested in knowing w'hat a name really represents, will find this catalogue very handy for reference, and the names are easily found, as they are arranged alphabetically. - fH. Desire Boudrant, ]un., has communicated the following recipe for an Insecticide Poivder to the Central Horticultural Society of France : — Take 100 grammes (a gramme is 15*444 grains) of silicic acid, 1 litre (about 1| pints) of alcohol at a strength of 8G, and a sack of fine sawdust. The acid is dissolved in the alcohol, and the solution is applied in small quantities to the sawdust, carefully mixing while adding, until it has absorbed the whole. This opei’ation is performed in the open air. The following day the powder is ready for use, alid is applied to infested plants by throwing it over them. - According to the Pevue llorticole^ the following plan of Preserviny ' Vines against Frost, noted b}* Mr. Charles Baltet, is to be recommended, and might be adopted for other plants. At the time of pruning the long wood, a tr«nch is 1877. ] GARDEN GOSSIP. 1)5 inaclc a few inches in depth, and the rods laid in it and covered over, taking care that the two uppermost eyes are left out of the ground. These will come into growth early if not killed by frost, and the protected buds will be proportionately retarded. If frost ensue the upper exposed buds will bo killed, but the subterranean ones will be preserved. When danger from frost is over, the young shoots are pruned away if frozen ; if not, they are pinched in so as to etpialise the growth from the long wood. The covering-up is done in February, the uncovering at the end of May. - ^s a weed-destroye.r Carbolic Acid seems likely to prove a boon to gardeners. Sucli weeds as Dandelions are killed by one application, tlie mode of applying it to destroy single plants being to make a hole into tlie crown with an iron point, and then to pour on a little of the liquid from a bottle. For paved yards, and also for garden-paths, the carbolic acid is mixed with from ten to fifty times its quantity of water in a bucket, according to its original strength, and applied with a brush or broom, or from a rose watering-can, a sunny day being the best. - ^NE of the great necessities in the cultivation of plants such as fruit- trees and flowering-plants, and excluding such as annuals, is llest. The gardener’s axiom is to ripen the season’s growth properly, and then to give a long period of complete rest. Kest, however, in this case does not imply inaction, but rather change of work, for during what is called the resting-period many physical and chemical changes take place, such as concentration of liquid juices, changes in their chemical composition, consoli¬ dation of tissues, and the like, all aptly enough summed up in the expression “ ripening the wood.” But a plant “ at rest ” is really no more inactive than the chrysalis of a butterfly, in which wonderful transformations are taking place. - a Substitute for Persian Insect-Powder ^ the wild rosemary {Ledum palustre) has been suggested in America. When dried as well as fresh it is destructive to lice, bugs, fleas, moths, &c. The tincture prepared from it is also a remedy for the bites of gnats, and insects generally, not only relieving the itching in a short time, but also the pain, when applied to a wound. The tincture repels gnats, when mixed with glycei'ine and rubbed upon the skin. It seems to deserve notice on account of these proper¬ ties, and its possible substitution for the more expensive and frequently adulterated Persian insect-powder. The plant is most effective when fresh and in bloom, and should be gathered in the latter condition. - ®HE true Dwarf Purple Queen Stock is not only one of the hardiest of its class, but scarcely behind the best imported summer kinds in the production of double flowers. In a large bed raised from seed saved indiscriminately, and not subjected to any particular thinning or selection, just seventy-five plants in the hundred are double, a proportion that ought to satisfy the most exacting, having regard, at the same time, to the necessity for the production of seed. This Stock is of a rich, deep, violet- purple hue, and is very dwarf and compact, seldom exceeding 15 in, in height when in full bloom. In some cottage gardens in the neighbourhood of Feltham, Middlesex, it is ■well grown, the double flowers being cut in bunches for market. When grown in bulk, it is a capital successor to the dark Wallflower, and furnishes an immense amount of deliciously- perfumed flowers all through the month of May. As a bedding-plant it is most effective, and produces a mass of colour that would rival any other bedding-plant. - ®E learn from M. Ortgies that the Colorado Spruce, Abies Menziesii Parryana^ mentioned at p. 47, is without doubt the same as one of which Mr. B. Roezl collected a great quantity of seeds in the Colorado Mountains in the autumn of 1874. Mr. Roezl spoke very highly of the decorative value of this Spruce, the foliage glittering like silver in the sun, and said it ought to be called Silver Spruce, and when once fairly known would become a great favourite. He also took it for a variety of Abies Menziesii, but said that it never made such tall trees, and had a better and much more compact habit. On examining the specimens sent to him, M. Ortgies found it to be the Abies co7mnut<%ta of Professor Parlatoro {Abies Engelmanni, Parry), under which name the 9G THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. [ April, seeds were distributed. There must be now a great quantity of two-year seedlings in the principal nurseries on the Continent and in England. - ^HE Neiu Palm-IIoitse in the north-western part of the Adelaide Botanic Garden was opened by Lady Musgrave in January last, having been com¬ menced in February, 187G. The house has been erected on a terrace some G or 7 ft. high, and 30 ft. broad on all sides. The building is 102 ft. in length, including two half¬ octagons, each 8 ft. 6 in. long, which project at either extremity, 35 ft. broad, IG ft. 0 in. high from the level of the terrace to the eaves, and 5 ft. additional to the ridge, the altitude of tbe centre dome being about 40 ft. To construct it 3,808 panes of glass have been used, each being about 20 in. long and 14 in, wide. Most of the glass is pellucid, whilst of the re¬ mainder some is “ frosted,” and that composing the borders is of a deep rich blue colour. There are two entrances, one of which faces the north, and the other the south. The cost of the ironwork and glass, including commission and freight, has been about £1,240, and the cost of the formation of the terrace, &c., nearly £1,000, thus making the total cost about £3,140. For its dimensions, elegant construction, and general tout ensemble, ihc. structure is certainly not to be approached in the Australian colonies. The arrangement of the interior offers unmistakable evidence of the artistic ability and exquisite taste of Dr. Schoinburgk, from whom the idea emanated, and under whoso supervision it has been carried out. There is a rotunda in the centre, containing palms, ferns, and other tropical plants ; while an avenue some G ft. or 7 ft. wide runs from one extremity to the other, as well as from the central rotunda to both entrances, and is paved -with red and black octagonal tiles, the spaces being filled in with square yellow tiles. - ^HE schedule of prizes to be competed for at the International Horti¬ cultural Exldhition to he held at Carlisle on September G, 7, and 8 next, under the auspices of the Carlisle and Cumberland Floral and Horticultural Society, is now issued. There are 218 classes in Avhich money prizes or plate are offered, and ten in which certificates only are given. The amount of prize-money offered is nearly £1,250. The schedule is divided into fourteen divisions, viz., 1, fruit, open to all; 2, fruit, open to amateurs only ; 3, fruits of foreign growth ; 4, plants in pots, nurserymen only ; 5, plants in pots, for gardeners and amateurs ; G, plants in pots, for amateurs only ; 7, cut flowers, for nurserymen only ; 8, cut flowers, for gardeners and amateurs only ; 0, cut flowers, for amateurs only ; 10, dinner-table decorations, open to all; 11, vegetables, for gardeners and amateurs only ; 12, vegetables, amateurs only ; 13, new plants, open to gentlemen and amateurs; and, 14, horticultural requisites. The entries close on August 30. Intending exhibitors should apply for a copy of the schedule to the acting secretary, Mr. John Mounsey, Victoria Hall, Lowther Street, Carlisle. - ‘^The Epacris onosnuefiora Jiore-pleno nivalis^ flowered by Mr. Bull, of Chelsea, proves to be a grand acquisition, and is at once distinguishable from the double variety shown last year for the first time, by the purer whiteness of its flowers and their larger size. Individually the flowers are quite half as largo again as those of E. onosmaiflora flore-pleno alba, and are of snoAvy Avhiteness as compared with those of the last-named plant, which are distinctly flesh-tinted. The plant is a strong groAvor, and pro¬ duces long dense spikes of floAvers. - IKe. Lee’s new Violet called Odoratissima well deserves the name, and so far as can be judged from cut flowers, is the best of the recent novelties, the flowers being large, finely-formed, with broad rounded well-set petals, of a bright shade of blue-purple, and deliciously fragrant ; while the foliage does not appear to be so coarse as in some of the other large-flowered sorts. The perfume is wonder¬ fully powerful, and the colour effective and attractive. - ^HE business of horticultural engineer and manufacturer of hot-water , apparatus carried on so successfully by the late Mr. 11. Ormson^ at Stanley Bridge, Chelsea) will, we learn, be continued under the same name. W,H. Fitch del. Pr'ctiviei* Peact^ , Air - • 1877. ] CALVILLE BLANCHE APPLE. 97 THE PEEMIER PEACH. WITH AN ILLUSTRATION. HIS fine Peach was raised a few years ago in the Eoyal Gardens at Frog- more, and is the result of a cross between the Grosse Mignonne and fBellegarde. In general appearance it much resembles the latter variety. The fruit is large, round, and of even outline, with a slight suture, ex¬ tending generally to the apex ; the skin is purplish-red, becoming very dark when fully exposed to the sun, and often having spots and blotches of dark red on the shady side and near the base. The flesh is tender, juicy, and melting, with a delicious flavour ; and the flesh parts freely from the stone. This variety truly deserves a place in every garden where peaches are grown on the open wall, on account of its hardiness, healthy habit, and the good quality of its fruit. Mildew never attacks it, and it is generally free from the other ills to which peach-trees are subject. — J. Powell, Frogmore. CALVILLE BLANCHE APPLE. «HE illustration published at p. 73 conveys a very faithful idea of the beauty of this magnificent Apple. More than 50 years ago the then f Marquis of Stafford brought trees of this kind from Paris, which were planted against a south wall, and fruited regularly until their removal to make room for glasshouses. The apple, under such circumstances, was said to attain a fair size, but to be wanting in flavour, by comparison with samples sub¬ sequently grown in pots. The climate at Trentham is so uncertain and unfavourable for the growth of apples out-of-doors, that the late Mr. Fleming happily hit upon the idea of growing this apple extensively in pots, and he purchased, some twenty years ago, of Mr. Kivers, a quantity of small trees, grafted upon the French Paradise stock, which trees never fail to produce a sufficient quantity of handsome and delicious fruits for dessert during the winter months. That respected veteran and generally correct judge of the Pomacese, Mr. Rivers, did some injustice to the character of this apple some few years ago, for when ripened perfectly, it is the most pleasant apple to eat that I know. It however, requires a long summer to bring out its best qualities as a dessert apple ; if grown in an orchard-house, the trees should be in flow’er by the latter end of March, and the fruit should never be gathered until they have attained that bright yellow colour peculiar to this apple ; and this will not occur, as a rule, before the middle or end of October. The fruit should be gathered as they attain their full colour, but not before. They will then ripen perfectly, with a firm crisp flesh, vanishing in the mouth like that of a peach, and leaving a delightful impression on the palate. To those gardeners who must ever be on the look-out for new or striking 3bd series. — X. K 98 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOQIST. [ may, effects upon the dinner-table during the winter months, a few dozens of these little trees, laden with their golden treasures, are most useful. I know of no more fairy-like picture than an apple-grove of such trees set upon the dinner- table about Christmas. The apples will hang on the trees until March, if they have been well ripened, and some sprays of oak, with the leaves upon them (which may at all times be had in the winter, where there are young trees) will furnish the necessary foliage for sharpening-up the picture and relieving the bareness of the little trees. I might add that the heaviest fruit that we have grown of this apple this year, weighed twenty ounces. — -Zadok Stevens, Trentham Gardens, CLEMATIS INDIVISA LOBATA. 'HIS very handsome evergreen climber is a plant of vigorous growth, bearing cj) creamy-white flowers in great profusion during the spring months. It is from New Zealand, and is a very suitable plant for a large house where a considerable space has to be covered, and where it has room to develop itself sufficiently to exhibit its natural character. It is, moreover, a free-rooting subject, and requires to be planted-out, as no ordinary-sized pot could contain enough soil to support the growth which it makes. In commencing with young plants, it is better to grow them on for a season in pots, so as to get them well furnished with roots before turning out into a pre¬ pared border. A plant occupying a 6-in. or 7-in. pot should in April be shifted to another two or three inches larger. This Clematis grows well in a mixture of half peat and loam, with a moderate quantity of sand added to it. For this, as for other free-rooting things, it is well not to make the soil too fine ; break the turfy pieces into bits the size of walnuts, and mix the sand well with it. After potting insert in the pots several tall sticks, round these twine the shoots, which should be confined to from one to three in number, so that the plants may be induced to make considerable progress during the season. When potted place them in any ordinary greenhouse, and encourage growth by the usual means of damping the atmosphere in bright weather, and shutting up early with sun- heat, as also syringing freely overhead. Beyond this nothing will be required through the growing season except keeping the shoots regularly trained round the sticks. If this is not attended to they get entangled in a way that renders it difficult afterwards to separate them. As autumn approaches give more air, and discontinue the use of the syringe. Winter the plants in the usual green¬ house temperature of about 40° in the night. Warmer than this they should not be kept, or they will be induced to make growth through that which ought to be a season of complete rest previous to planting-out. This will be understood from the plant being indigenous to a country where the winters are cool. Before planting prepare the border which they are to occupy by efficient drainage covered over with a layer of fibrous materialj than which for a strong- 1877.] NEW ORNAMENTAL JAPANESE PEARS. 99 growing subject of this description there is nothing better than a thin, turfy sod of about an inch in thickness, that has lain together sufficiently long for the grass to have become decayed. This, if put on the turfy side downwards, will for years exclude the finer particles of soil from getting down into the drainage, which is better for being some six inches in depth. Previous to planting- out this and all other climbers, especially in greenhouses and conservatories, care should be taken that they are perfectly free from any of the worse kinds of insects, such as scale or mealy-bug, for the position of plants thus trained on the roof renders them much more difficult to clean than when grown as ordinary pot- specimens. It is equally of importance that any plants at all affected with these insects, and that are introduced to the house in which roof-climbers are grown, should never be stood in contact with the stems of the climbers, for if so placed the pests are sure to be communicated to them, and the worst results must follow. Let the planting-out be done sufficiently early in spring, before any growth has commenced, so that the necessary disentangling of the roots from the ball of earth with a view to spreading them in the new soil can be carried out without injury, which would follow if growth in either roots or branches had begun. After planting, give no more water until they have commenced to grow ; this is necessary, to keep the soil in a suitable condition. During the growing season keep the shoots regularly tied up into the place allotted to them, and supply the roots with water. This Clematis is very appropriate for planting at one end of a house, and training under the ridge. When allowed to hang thinly in festoons it has a good effect, and is more fitting for being so grown than things which are not naturally calculated for extending far. As the soil in which the roots are placed gets exhausted, recourse must be had to stimulants, in the shape of copious waterings during the growing season with liquid manure, and renewal of the surface-soil in the spring, by removing an inch or two from the top of the border the roots occupy, and replacing it with new. When the space is filled which the plants are intended to occupy, each year after flowering the knife should be freely used, so as to reduce the shoots within proper limits, and to allow room for the season’s growth. Red-spider will, during hot weather, sometimes make its appearance, and should be guarded against by a free use of the syringe. — T. Baines, Southgate, NEW ORNAMENTAL JAPANESE PEARS. E have sent you a small package containing Pears from Japan. These pears are very rare at present, and we believe they are not grown at all in England. Though not dessert pears, they are really worth a more extended cultivation, especially in the gardens of amateurs. We send five varieties, namely, Mikado,^ Madame Von Siebold^ Sieboldii, and one un¬ named. The first four varieties were brought into trade successively by the firm, Ph. K 2 100 THE FLORIST AND POMOLOGIST. t MAY, Von Siebold, whereof T. Mater is the well-known manager. The two first-named were offered in the year 1812, the other two in 1813. Mikado and Daimio are summer pears. Madame Siebold and Sieboldii can be kept till December and later. All four are good for kitchen use. The two first are quite ornamental when ripe, being pure yellow in colour, and hanging on long stalks. The Japanese people eat them for dessert, though we suppose they must have a different taste from ours, for we cannot eat them raw ; but these Japanese are a queer people. The two last are used in Japan in the kitchen ; but here is an extraordinary circum¬ stance — M. Von Siebold had always said that these late pears could be kept later than any. other sort in existence — more than eight or ten months, or sometimes till the following year ; they are also much larger in Japan. Both these state¬ ments have been again made not long since by M. Maximowicz, the well-known traveller in China and Japan, when he was paying a visit to the establishment of M. Von Siebold, at Leyden. Von Siebold says the following of it: — “The envoys of the Ancienne, Compagnie Neerlandaise have not ceased to admire in their journeys to the Court of Yedo, the large pears exhibited in^ the fruit warehouses, and perfectly 1877. ] NEW ORNAMENTAL JAPANESE PEARS. 101 preserved until the month of July. There are even some of them which keep longer still — eight to ten months. This pear-tree, which is originally from China, whence it was imported to Japan in distant times, distinguishes itself from our varieties by large fruits, almost rounded, and with very long piduncles, whose skin is rough (harsh), brownish, and dotted, and the flesh very succulent, but hard, more acid, or acerb, than sugary. There are some which are forwarder, smaller, and which are eaten in the summer season as re¬ freshing fruits, but there are these large pears of autumn, which keep so long, and are very suitable to be cooked and preserved, because of their acidity and acerbity, surpass¬ ing all our late pears in this pro¬ perty. The varieties which we have introduced stand easily not only the climate of central Europe, but also that of the tropical countries.” We can also say of them that they are quite as hardy here as Fig. y. any other varieties. They grow immensely, making shoots four feet long in one year ; their leaves, as you will see by the shoots now sent, are twice as large as those of other pears. They seem to form their flower-buds principally at the tops of their branches. The fifth variety sent is the best of all ; it has no name at present, not being yet offered for sale. This variety is now in our hands. We purpose to name it after one of our pomological friends in Holland. This variety is quite different from the other four, and Fig. 4. 102 the florist and pomologist. [ may, it differs largely from European pears, having the same other JapanL pears. The shape of the fruit is very pe* Z^M- colour This variety can be used as a dessert pear, for though perhaps third is fm eating, it isit-class for ornament. « ^he not met with the attention of horticulturists generally this canno fail to do as it is more ornamental, more peculiar, and more fit for use. ^ ^ “ stout habit, mailing very long shoots, with quite ornamental leaves.-J. W. Ottolander and Son. To this we may add that the young wood and foliage of the pears indicate a vigorous habit of growth. That of the -lety named Ls the bark marked with oblong white spots, the buds very piom nent and Ae leaves ovate or elliptic-ovate, gradually or rather suddenly ^ serrated with bristly teeth. The fruit, represented at fig. 1, ^ . dull yellow freckled over with light brown very shallow. The flesh is coarse, gritty, and iininvit g leaves and flowers and fruit similar to the last. ^ o The fruit of the variety named Madan>. Von Siehold has a light olive-brown skin, thickly dotted with small pa e b^wn ^ > eye sunk in a deep narroWbasin, without caly.-lobes ; s alk a half long, also set in a narrow cavity. The flesh rs whrte, cnsp, and gntty .Jn the variety Sieholdii, the bark is marked with small brown sp , are ovate-acuminate, sharply serrate. The fruit, shown in golden-russet skin, dotted over with whitey-brown spec cs. ^ ^ ' •4-4- c,r>A nriT^alitable The variety Ottolander has small lound dots o i‘ L s “»>. w*. represented at fig. 4, is very distinct from that of the others, being obong in ou The flesh is white, rather gritty, with a pear flavour. They are all hardy deciduous ornamental trees. — T. M. the CULTURlToi^TilE HIFPEASTRUM. •BoLONEL TBEVOE CLibKKE is so well known as a successful grower of ^ bulbous plants, that the following remarks of his on the management of the Hippeastnm, from the J