UMASS/AMHERST 312066 0333 3386 6 □aDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDaDDDDDDD D O ti % D J B B B 8 UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS g a LIBRARY a d B a B d o d - a ° B a B d B o B D R D B ° 9 ° B ° B Q B d B d B ° B d B ° B o B d B a B ° B ° B D B D B ° B a B d B a B D d BDaDDDDDDnDDDDDDDDDDaDDaanDDaDDD Pecember 31, 1S0S.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE a WiiMu illustrate Journal OF Horticulture and Allied Subjects. (ESTABLISHED IN 1841.) VOL. XXIV.-THIRD SERIES. JULY TO DECEMBER, 1898. LONDON : 41, WELLINGTON STREET, COVENT GARDEN, W.O. 1898. The Gardeners' Chronicle,) G-ifefe Ju^H - Dec ISIS [December 31, 1898. INDEX OF CONTENTS. JULY TO DECEMBER, 1898. Aeelias, 234 Acalypha Sanderi, 166 Acreage of Hops, 182 Acrostic-hum Lindeni, 333 Adenophora Potanini, 424 jEcidium grossularise, 145 Aganisia ccerulea, 282 Ailanthus glandulosa, 238 Akebia quinata, fruiting of, 372 Allotments for Hillingdon, 370 ; at Wallington, 406 Alnus imperialis, &c, 220 Alocasia Sanderiana, 381 Aloe, the propagation of an, by leaves, 423 Alpine garden, the, 212 ; hardy Opun- tias for the, 379 Alpine plants under alternations of temperature, 290 Alps, a storm-tossed Pinus Cctnbra on the, 459 Alternation of generations, 224 Altbrca, Primrose Gem, 114 Amaryllis Belladonna var. kewensis, 298. 339, 354 Amateur, what is an, 336 America, a national university for, 140 America, forestry demonstrations in, 383 ; fruit crops in, 289 ; the Apple crop in, 383 American Blackberry and Dewberry, the, 249 ; blight, an heroic remedy for the, 371 ; tree seeds, 256 American notes, 45, 120, 140, 237, 316, 364, 382 Amonimui", 61 Ampolopsis Veitchi, its proper name, 461 Androsace sarmentosa, wild, in Nor- way, 126 Annuals, three good, 308 Ant-destroyers, 34 Anthurium crystalliuum var. illustre, 417 Anthracnose, the development of some, 164 Ants, a method of trapping, 32 Antwerp artizans as gardeners, 322 Antwerp, Chrysanthemums at, 421 Antwerp Horticultural Exhibition, S8 Aphides and the use of carbolic-soap, 125 Aphides, the Lady-birds and, 444 Aphis on Beech-trees, 354 Apiary, the, 9, 49, 95, 121, 161, 197, 287, 319, 360, 385, 437, 469 Aplopappus ericoides, 382 Apospory in Ferns, 62 Apothecaries' garden at Chelsea, the, 126 Apple, Andenken an Palandt, 164 Apple-barrel, a standard, 181 Apple crop in America, the, 383 Apple, diseased, 325 Apple, Lewis' Incomparable, 371 ; the, in market-gardening, 380 ; the place of origin of the Baldwio, 387 Apple-trees, cankered, 372 ; diseased, 462 ; dwarf or bush, 233 ; for market cultivation, 232 ; planting, 118 ; pyramidal, 234 ; Apple with "glassi- ness," 325 Apples and Pears, the cracking of, 341 Apples, American and British, 308 ; in Scotland, 346 ; Jas. Grieve and others, 277 ; notes on, 268 ; picking, grading, and packing, 231 ; polishing, at shows. 277 ; some new, 309 ; varieties of, for the market gardener, 192 Arbor tristis, 61 Aivyreia speciosa, 350 Atistolochia sipho, 137 Arizona, the Date-Pahn in, 316 Artificial manures, the uee of, -16, 447 Arundinaria aristata, 211 ; A. auri- coma, flowering of, at Castlewellan, 181 ; A. metallica, 274 ; A. nitida, 211 ; A. Laydekeri, a seedling plant of, 274 .Ash-tree, leafage of the, in the North, 12 Asparagus, culture about London, 7 ; rust, 120 ; A. Sprengeri fol. var., 221 ; varieties of, 462; winter, forciDg of, in America, 46 Aster, Dwarf Mignon, 324 ; the wild form of the China, 254 Asters, disease!, . 128 ; perennial, at Kew, 289 ; perennial, in Scotland, 277 Astilbe, Gerbe d Argent, 123 Astragalus alpinus albus, 73 Auctioneer's botany, 474 Australian desert, the West, 433 Azalea indica out-of-doors at Clyne Castle, 101 Azores, Hydrangeas in the, 336, 457 P. Baaras, 61 Bacteria in hailstones, 288 Baldwin Apple, place of discovery of the, 387 Bamboos, 86, 211 ; at Royal Horticul- tural Society, 91 ; hardy, 246, 258, 274 ; A. B. Freeman-Mitford's lecture on, 92 Barham Court garden?, 251 Barr, Mr. Pe'.er, 105 ; in America, 406 Bath, street trees in, 238 Bean, the Florida Velvet, 51, 146 BeanB in Guernsey, 462 Bedding-out, the system of, 221 Bedding, the summer, at Hampton Court, 13 Beech, the purple, 423, 445 ; in Miss Sullivan's garden, 304 Beech trees, aphis on, 354 ; coccus od, 371 ; dying, 55 Beeches, The, St. John's \Voo3, O.chirJs at, 314 Bees, in a jam factory, 257 ; late swarm- ing of, 222 Beet, globe-shaped, 292 Beetle, a Dendrobium (Xyleborus mori- gerus), 388 Begonia, a monstrous, 372 Begonia Bavaria, 78 Begonia Gloire de Lorraine, 339, 407, 444 ; at Highbury, 440 Begonia venosa, 462 Begonias, Lemoine's, new double sem- perflorens, 334 Belgian Campine, the founding of a school of horticulture in the, 272 Belgium, a collection of Cacti in, 127 Benevolent Institution, Gardeners' Royal, 166, 386, 406, 441; altera- tion of address, 352 Bibliography and history of the Green Gage group of Plums, 465 Bictan, 153, 177, 190 Bidens atrjsanguinea superba, 296 Bign^nia purpurea, 399 Biological exhibition in the Zoological Gardens, Clifton, 240 Birds, as gardeners' friends, 277; in the garden, 292 Birdsall, York, Carnations at, 47 Bishop- towe Gardens, Torquay, 416 Blackberry and Dewberry, tin Ameri- can. 249 Blackberries, 166 ; British, 184 Blackbeeths, chocolate as a trap for, 400 Black Currant x Gooseberry, 55 Black Curniut, tho Golden, 54 Blindness in Strawberry, cure for, 89 Blooms, wired and cupped, 354 Blue ilowers, 292 Bog garden, the water and, 45 Books, Notices of —A Manual of Agricultural Botany, from the Gar- man of Dr. A. B. Frank {Translated by Jno. W. Palerson), 6 ; Annual Report of the Department of Parks, Boston, U.S.A., 388; An Old Eng- lish Garden (Counte's of Warwick), (announcement), 370 ; A Tex1; Book of Batany (Dr. E. Slrasburger and others) (Translated by Dr. Porter), 6 ; A Year's Work on a Kentish Fruit Farm (By a Practical Man), 200 ; Boletim da Sociedade Broteriam, 387 ; Botanical Magizke, the, 50, 123, 198, 288, 352, 420, 4 41 ; Boutcher's Treatise on Forest Trees, 51, 123, 189, 288, 352, 420 ; British Orchids (A.D. Webster), 6 ; Bulletin of the French Horticultural Soc'ety of London. 388 ; Catalogue of the Lindley Library, 438 ; Chemistry in Daily Life, by Dr. Lassar-Cohn, translated by M. M. Pattison Muir, 406 ; Dante's Garden, with Legends of the Flowers (Rosemary A. Cotes), 388 ; Dictionnaire Iconograpbique des Orchidees, 181, 398 ; Dictionoaire Pratique d'ilorticulture et de Jar- dinage, 164 ; Die Alpenpflanzeu unter Girtenkultur der Tiefliinder (Erich Wocke), 2»7 ; Elementary Botany (Percy Oroom, MA ), 6 ; Elizabeth and her German Garden, 306 ; Flora Capeusis, 105 ; Florilegium Haarlemsnse, 123 ; Flower Favourites, their Legends, Symbolism, and Significance (Lizzie Dear), 333; Fruii Culture for Ama- teurs, Ed. ii. (S. T. Wright, and IF. D. Drury), 386 ; Histoire de la Pomme de Terre, traite aux points de vue Historique, Bibliologique, Pathologique, Cultural et Uiid- taire (Ernest Roze) (History, &c, of the Potato), 456 ; Index univer- salis etPlantarum omnium Fuogoruiu (Index of Fungi). 471 ; Insects, Foes »nd Friends ( W. Eymont Kirby, M.D.), 66; Insects Injurious to Orchard and Bush-fruits, with Mo ins of Prevention and Reiely (Miss E. A. Ormerod), 371 ; Journal of the Meteorological Society, 70 ; Journal of the Royal Hort. Society, 322 ; Kew Bulletin, 68, 180, 288, 352, 420 ; L'Arfc du Fleuriste and Ll Mosaiculture (Albert Maumene), 370 ; Lo Dictionnaire Pratique d'Horticul- ture, 322 ; Lessons with Plants, &c. ( L. 11. Bailey), 26 ; Lindonia, the, 283, 450 ; List of Roses now in Culti- vation at Chateau Eldonore, Carjne3 (Lord Broughim and Vau.r), 274 ; Monasticism (F. J. Feasey), 449 ; Musterb'iitter der Bindekunst (J. Olberlz, Erfurt), 272 ; One and All Gardening (E. O. Greening), 338 ; Pan- sies, Violas, and Violets (Dobbic), 136 ; Principles of Fruit-growing (L. E. Bailey), 316 ; Publications Re- ceived, 70, 144, 164, 182, 199, 222, 237, 290, 3C6, 323, 353, 387, 407 ; Recent Chrysanthemum Literature, 213 : Riviera Nature Notes (G. C), 65, 370 ; Sell's Commercial Intelli- gence, 338 ; Sunny Jersey (Percy Ed. Ann/), 274 ; Symbolic Antillanre (Dr. Urlim), 421 ; The California Vega- tables in Garden and Field (E J. Wick-son), 26 ; The Evolution of our Native Fruits (L If. Bailey), 383; Tne Farmer and the liirds (Edith Cairinglon), 38S ; The Flora of Perth- shire (by F. Buchanan W. Whi c, Ed. by W. H. Trail, A.M.), 6; The Flora of Tropical Africa (con- cluding part of vol. vii.), 3-2 ; The Gardeners' Magazine, 457 ; The Jadoo Album, 256 ; The Making of a Daisy (Eleanor Hughes Qibbs), 307 ; The New Penny Maeazine, 328 ; The Orchids of the Siik m Himalaya (Sir Geo. King, K.G.S I., and R. Pantling), 218 ; The Pru ing B;>ok (L. H. Bailey), 174; The Rabbit (/. E. Hartimj), 472 ; Timber Measurement (E. A. P. Burl), 371 ; The Story of the Far ja (Jas. Long), 387 ; Vegetation an 1 S :enery ' (Messrs. Olmsted, Boston, U.S.A.),U0 ; Weather Influences on Farm and Girden Craps (El. Mawley), 68; Weather Lire (R. Inwards), 26 Bjoks, old, on gardening, 461 Border Carnations, 292 Botanic Gardens, school and college, 22 Botanic Gardens, Sydney, the, 180 Botan'cal nomenclature, 51 Botanv, public gardens and the study of, 51 Botrycbium Iuuaria, 306 Bouquets, specimen, 306 Bjut:her's Treatise on Forest Trees, 189 Bramble, Scottish, the cultivation of the, 275 Brambles in Scotland, 278 Brefeld, Dr., appointed Professor of Botany to the University of Breslau, 199 Brentford nurket, extensions of, 406 Broccoli, Dl kson's June King, 8, 53 ; Dixon's Midsummer, 34 Broceolis, 73 Brocm House, Fulbam, 348 Brurjsvigia Cooperi, 345 Bryanstone House, 429 Buda Pestb, Hungarian horticultural exhibition at, 220 Buddleia variabilis, 138 Bulb garden, the, 345, 398 Bulb - growing, the principles aud practice of, 361, 422, 442 Bulbs aud tubers, the passive life of, 434 Bulb>, the timely planting of, 388, 423, 445, 461 Bulbous plants, planting, 318 Bulbous plants, short note3 on, 98, 135, 195 Burbank, Luthor, a successful hybrid- iser, 366 Burford Lodge, gardens at, 87 Butler's Hiidibras, misquotation from, 108 Cabbage, concerning the, 174 CaetaeErcof the Galapagos Islands, the, 265 Cacti and other succulents, cultivation of, 134 ; in Belgium, 127 ; the culti- v ition of, by F. Liet, 258 Cactus Dahlia, "Trump," 436; new varieties of, 460 Caladiums, 350 Calauthe X Voitcbi, 433 Calceolaria amplcxicaulis, 292, 383 Calceolarias, 88 Cabistephus hortensis, 268 Calochortus clavatus, 51 Cambridge B itanio Garden, annual report of the, 32 Cambridge Lodge, Orchids at, 2 Came'lia as a seaside plant, the, 365 Camellias, seedling, 216 Campanula botuloefolia, 424 ; C. Me- dium calycanthema, 65, 89 ; C. m;- rabilie, 33, 108 Tin' Gardeners' Chronicle, INDEX. [D««CH ' in Campanulate Foxgloves, 10 Canada, and the preferential tariff, 164 ; horticultural prospects ha, 221 , t'nder fruits from, 47 Canadian industry, a new and profit- able, 309 Candytuft "Little Prince," 321; C, •' White Spiral," 308 Cauna, a sportive, 379 ; C , indica ripening seed in the open, 25S ; C, the, as a decorative plant, 43 Cmna", 379 Capo Gooseberry, the, 389 Cap?, Grapes from the, 47 Cape Town, Rosa gigantea flowering at, 421 Carbolic Eoap and Rreenfly, 90 C n clew gardens, Falmouth, 399 Carnation, a Beedling, 73 ; C. Isinglass, 120 ; C. Queen of the Yellows, 125 ; C. Mrs. W. Buckler Lethbridge, 52 ; C. Souvenir de la MalmaisoD, the cultivation of, at Dover House, 3 ; C , sport iD, 142 ; C, staking, 407 Carnations at Birdsall, York, 47 ; border, 109,221, 292; C. from Kelso- on-T*eed, 164 ; C, Mr. Martin Smith's, 113 Carrot, a monstrous, 460 ; Carter's Long-forcing, 47 Carrots in India, 457 ; varieties of, 48 Caryopteris Mastacanthus, 292 Cassia corymbosa, 339 Citalpa hybrida, 251 iitisetum longifolium, 314 ; C. macro- carpum, 301 Caterpillars, and how to rid them from the land, 462 Cattle Show, the, at Smithfield, 421 Cattleya do'.os), 98 ; C. granulosa, 134; C. ■: Hardyana var , 393; C. x Hardyana Mrs. C. E. Chrimes, 282 ; C. labiata, 398 ; C. labiata alba, 330 ; C. labiata Schrodera?, &c , 256 ; C. x Maroni, 332 ; C. Moss^a;, at Messrs. H. Low & Co.'s, 2 ; C. (J'Brieniana, 378 ; C. superba splendens, 300 ; C. Waracewiczii, 22 ; C. Warecewiczii var., 398 Cauliflower, early dwarf Snowball, 108 ; Veitch's extra early forc'mg, 48 Cauliflowers. Danish, 2S5 ; Snowflake, for forcing, 70 Ceanothus Gloire de Versailles, a good blue-flowering plant, 292 Celluloid labels, 52 Cercis Siliquaatrum, the propagation of, 428 Cereals, recent observations of Prof. Eriksson ou the rusts of, 269 Cereus peruvianus mnnstrosus, 174 Cetraria islandica, 179 Ceylon, the rainfall in, 29 u son gotV, 179 Ctanaaarop3 excalsa in Dr. Hamilton Ramsay's gardeu at Torquay, 420 Cbamaarors excel-a flowering out-of- doors, 308 Channel Isles, market gardenirg in the, 452 Charities, the gardening. 12, 33, 71, ISO Chelsea physic garden, 126, 441 Chemical manure3, lecture upon, 16, 447 Cheques, cashing crossed, 322 Cherry-leaves, diseased, 55 China Aster, the wild form of the, 254 Chionodoxa Lucilue with rose-coloured flowers, 256 Cbiawick gardens of the Royal Horti- cultural Society, the, 338 Chiswick, meeting of the R.H.S. com- mittees at, 31 Chocolate as a trap for blackbeetles, 400 Christmas flowers, &c, in Scotland, 459 ; market at Covent Garden. 458 Christy's, Mr.,gardeD, 134 Chronicle, the, of a little Cornish garden, 21, 97, 210, 330, 433 Chrysanthemum, a free-flowering, 364 Chrysanthemum blooms, wired and cupped, 354 Chrysanthemum Congress at Lyons list of papers read at the, 51 Chrysanthemum disease, the (rust), 269, 292, 307, 324, 371, 407, 428 ; literature, recent, 213 ; C. Madame Carnot, 410 ; C. Mrs. G. Griiner- wald, 276 ; C. nipponicum, 348 ; notes on, 278 ; C. R. Hooper Pear- son, 368 Chrysanthemum show at Aquarium, through French eyes, 442 Chrysanthemum show at Milan, 406 Chrysanthemum, the modern, 352 Chrysanthemum, unseasonable flower- ing of a, 69 Chrysanthemums, 314, 341, 346, 367, 404, 45S ; a liquid fertiliser for, 406 ; at Antwerp, 421 ; colonial novelties in, 410 ; cultural notes upon, 284 ; damping of, 342 ; in Guernsey, 453 ; in Scotland, 409, 445, 4*32; popular show, 410 ; some new white varieties of, 387 ; the annual propagation of, 409 ; the crown and terminal buds of, 424 ; novelties in, 425, 458 ; with aerial roots, 324 Cider-making in France, 25 Cinchona in Java, 237 Cineraria", cultivation of, 459 ; hybrid, 101 Cirrhooa viridi-purpurea, 190 Cissus discolor in fruit, 52 Clematis paniculata, 268 Clinostigma Mooreanun in Lord Howe's Island, 450 Cliveden, the gardens at, 1 Clyne Castle, Azalea indica at, 101 Cobbatt's Corn, 90 Coccus on Beech-trees, 371 Ccclogyue lagenaria, 314 Cold storage Paaonie*, 69 Coleus macrophyllus Damn, 296 Colonial notes, 47, 66, 100, 178 Combe Abbey, the gardeua aud gar- dener at, 229 Compensation Act, 1897. the Work- man's, 411 Continental Novelties, 295, 324, 436 Cooke's garden,Mr.George, at Wylaru , 6 4 Co-operative, tho National Festival, 142, 162 Corn, Cobbett's, 90 Corn, Indiau, crops of the United State', 406 Cornish Daffodils, 353 Cornish garden, the chronicle of a little, 21, 97,210, 330, 433 Cornwall, South, notes from, 398 Coryanthe3 maculata, 267 Cottage Gardeners' Compensation Act, the, 276 Covent Garden Market, reminiscences of, 173, 194 Coxcombp, exhibition, 460 Crassula coccinea, and Rochea falcata, hybrid between, 143 Crassulaceous hybrid, 147 Crataagus Oxjacantha var. horrida, 13 Crataagus, noteworthy forms of, 466 Crinurn giganteum, 298 ; C. purpuras- cens,398 Crocosmia, 307 ; C. imperialis, 324 ; C. aurea, hardiness, of, 372 Crocus hovigatu", 466 ; C. nudiflorus in England, 88 ; C. speciosus, 354 Crown forests, 240 Cucumber, a, for window culture, 436 Cyanide of potassium as an insecticide, 50, 432 Cyclamen europaaum with loDg rhizo- mes, 372 ; C. Utilolium in North Africa, 52 Cyclamens, the hardiness of, 199 CymbidiumTraeeyanum, 314 ; C. Hut- toni, 2 Cyperus fertilis, 8 Cypripedium insigne malformed, 342 ; C. i. Hare6eld Hall var. 466 Cypripedium or Paphiopedilum, 414 Cyrtanthus .sanguineus, 298 Cucumber, "Alabaster," 295 Cucumbers, twin, 32 Currant, black, the golden. 54 ; shoots falling, 55 Currant, crop of Greeee, the, 304 ; red, La Versaillaiee, 125 Dabeocia polifolia, 382 Daffodils in Cornwall, 353 ; in Guern- sey, 453 Dahlia-Cactus, Fantasy, 238 ; Society, the National, 12; "Trump," 43< > ; new varieties of, 460 Dahlias, 184 ; at the Crystal Palace, 198 ; D. Cactus, 249, 321 ; at Slough, 302; orosaed by Sunflower, 325, 426 ; storing, 302, 459 Dalkeith in June, 41 Danaaa nigrescens, 413 Danish Cauliflowers, 285 Darlingtonias, 838 Date Palm, the, in Arizona, 316 Dendrobium aqueum, 300, 362 Dendrobium-beetle, a (Xyleborus mori- gerus), 388 Dendrobium Dearei, 193 ; D. donsi- florum, a fine plant of, 184 ; D. for- mosum varieties, 301 ; D. f. gigan- teum at Gunnersbury House Gardens, 472 ; D. Phalaanopsis album, 433 Denmark, 285 DeSmodium tortuosum (the Beggar Weed), 256 Deutzia corymbiflora, 265 Devonshire gardens, some, 117, 165, 291, 298,416 Dianthus Atkinsoni, 124 ; D. Hedde- wigii Queen of Holland, 324 Diaspis amygdali, a fruit scale-insec1', 245 Diervillas in autumn, 196 Digging, autumn v. spring, 372 Digitalis, campanulate, 10 Dimerous Cattleya granulosa, 147 Diospyros Kaki, 337 ; fruit of, from south wall in Canon Ellacombe's garden, 342 Disas, the cultivation of, 203 Disease of Lily, a cure for the, 42 ; of Paaonies, a, 124 Diseases of plants, 69 ; of the Totato, 134 Dorchester public gardens, the, 299 Druggist's garden, a, 134 Dublin note, 378 Dulcote, Orchids at, 154 Dulwicb, Hollyhocks at, 291 East Burnham Park, the pleasure- grounds at, 50 East Sutton Park, 283 Eaton Hall, Chester, 408 Edinburgh School of Rural Economy, 27 Education, want of State horticultural, 87 Egypt in pre-historic times, 470 Eichhornia crassipes, 408 Emigrants, hints to intending, 290 Eucephalartos Hildebrandti, 331 Entries, suitable, for Christmas, 463 Epping Forest, addition to, 322 Eremurus Elwesianue, 137 Erica ciliaris, 454; E. cinerea, 454 ; E. lusitanica (codonodes), 454 ; E. Mackaii, 454 ; E. Maweana, 454, 474 ; E. mediterranea vara., 454 Ericas, the hardy, 432, 461 Escallonia Langleyensis, 10 ; E. Philip- piana, 34 Eucalyptus cordata, 191 ; E. globulus, 408 ; in Cornwall, 322, 354 Eucharis grandiflora, var. Lowi, 346 Eugenia Ugni, 277 Eulophia guineensis, 361 Eulophiella, 126 Euphorbia Fournieri and E. lophogona, 378 Exacuna macranthum, 248 Examinations in horticulture, 5, 274 ; of the R.H.S., 354, 371, 389, 408, 421 Exhibitors, judges and, 445 Fan-cooler, the, in fruit shies, 17 FasciatioD, 381 Feijoa Sellowiana, a now edible fruit, 451 Fern crosts, 380 Ferns, apospory in, 62 Fertility of the soil, the, 430 Fertilisation of Pear flowers, the, 256 Fertilisation, self, 69 Fig culture, experiences in, 158 Filberts and Cobs, 422 Florence, conference at, on early and delayed maturity in plants, 10 ; Mr. Ross's garden at, 397 Florida Velvet Bean, the, 32, 51, 116 Florist, a veteran, 73 Florists' flowers, 47, 88, 120, 249, '278. 287, 302, 333, 367, 424, 458, 459 Flower gardening at Regent's Tark, 156 ; at the Zoo, 182 ; the new, 200, 222 Flower gardoD, the, 8, 28, 49, 66, 95, 103, 121, 141, 160, 179, 196, 217, 234, 253, 270, 287, 302, 319, 335, 350, 367, 384, 403, 419, 436, 469 ; the value of plunged pot plants in the, 257, 276, 455 Flower-growing in England, 381 Flower-wall, a, 324 Flowering plants under trees, 1 Flowers, out of season, a protest, 209 ; Why not ? 240 ; support for (Japanese), 88 ; the colours of, and drought, 325 Foreign correspondence, 27, 78, 214, 334, 382, 425, 435 Forestry, 176, 213, 301, 379, 402, 41S ; demonstrations at Washington, 3S2 ; New York State College of, 316 ; state of, in Scotland, 104 Forests, the economic management of, 418 Foxgloves, campanulate, 10 France, cider-making in, 25 ; intro- duction of Cos Lettuces into, 45 7 ; the culture of Melons in, 240 ; wine ferment experiments in, 174 Freiberr von Tubeuf, Dr. Karl, ap- pointed to the biological department, Berlin, 441 French horticulturists, honours to, 444 French Peaches, 4 Frost in Shropshire, 277 Fruit crops, remarks on the 106, 116, 137, 157 ; report on the condition of, 79, 86 ; in ttie Blairgowrie district, 72 ; in the United States, 289 Fruit, cultivation in suburban gardens, 243 ; enemy, another, 245 ; farms, Mr. T. R. Morae's, 138 ; farm, Woburn exrerinwntal, 59 ; growing in West Kent, 123 ; hardy, the cul- tivation of, 24, 118 ; for the supply of the market, 192, 232, 380 ; in the United States, 123 ; judging of, 166 ; packing of, 7, 272 ; protection of, against parasitic fungi, 370 ; retro- gression, 308 ; the evolution of American, 383 ; thinning, 199 ; two new edible, 450, 451 ; scale insect, a uew, 245 ; shops, the fan- cooler in, 47; show at the Crystal Palace, 10, 222, 239, 254, 276 ; the effect of the graft on flavour of the, 246 Fruit-trees, experimental spraying of, 300 ; gumming in, 475 ; planted beneath grass, 377 ; spraying, 353 ; the removal of, f 39 Frtirts aud tubers, the splitting of, 198 Fruits under glass, 9, 28, 48, 67, 95, 102, 120, 141, 160, 179, 11";, 217, 234, 253, 271, 287, 303, 319, 334, 851, 866, 385, 402, 419, 436, 155,468 Fuchsia, seedling, 146 Fungi, the detection of poisonous, 289 Fungous diseases, literature of, 11 Fungus, on Chrysanthemum leaves, 269 ; the Gooseberry, 14S Galapagos Islands, the Cactacem of the, 265 IV The Gardeners' Chronicle,] INDEX. [December 31, 189S Gangrene, how it affects Potatos, 184 Gardener, the duties and wages of a, 390 Gardening charities, the, 12, 33, 53, 71, 89,126, 166, 180 Gardens, some Wehh, 313 Gaura Lindheimeri, 324, 407 Gee3cn, Mr. F., presentation to, 124 Ghent, notes from, 221 Ginseng, industry in Canada, the, 309 Gladiolus quartinianus superbus, 467 Glreospor'.um laoticolor, and a remedy for it, 53 Glamis Castle, Forfar, 467 Glass, red, for plaut culture, 424 Glendaragh, Teigumoutb, 291 Godetia carmine i aurea compacta, 296; G. Duke of York, 296 ; G. gloriosa, 308 Gomphrena globosa, 401 Gooseberry-fungus, the, 145 Gordon's garden at Khartoum, 256 Gosford, a lake at, 182 Graft, the effect of the, on the flavour of the fruit, 246 Grafting Rhododendron', 425 Grammangis Ellisii, and G. Rumphia- num at Kew, 22 Grammatophyllum speciosum in flower at Peradeniya, 370 Grape, Diamond Jubilee, 278 Grapes, bad setting of, 240 ; from the Cape, 47 ; in Guernsey, 4ii3 ; large prizes for, at the comiDg Horticul- tural Show at Shrewsbury, 407, 424, 441, 474 ; mice eating, 292 ; the trade in, and other matteis, 185 Grass over roots of fruit-trees, 377 Greenfly and carbolic-soap, 90, 125 Green Gage group of Plume, the biblio- graphy and history of the, 465 Greenhouse plants, some neglected, 401, 434 Greenhouses, travelling, in Guerrsey, 4.>3 Grimstone's history of the Egyptian Pea, 54 Guernsey, Chrysanthemums in, 453 Daffodils in, 453; Grapes in, 453 market gardening, &c, in, 452 Tomatos in, 453 Gumming, in fruit-trees, 475 Gunnersbury Houec, Dendrobium for mosum giganteum at, 472; the Water Jilies at, 46 H Habenabia conoprea, what is, 146, 200 Hailstorm at Lamport, 13 Hamamelis mollis, 363 ; H. vitginka, 297 Hamburgh Research Station, 86 Hampton Court, the bedding out at, 136 Hamslade House, Devonshire, 117 Hardy Fruit Garden, the, 8, 29, 48, 07, 94, 103, 121, 140, 161, 179, 197, 216, 235, 252, 271, 286, 303, 318, 335, 350, 367, 384, 403, 418, 437, 454 Hardy fruits, the cultivation of, 24 Haras and rabbits, destructiveness of,4 7 4 Harton Cemetery, South Shields, 76 Hatfield, 100 Heath, St. Dabeoc's, 382 Heaths, the hardy, 432, 454, 461 Hedges of garden flowers, 354 Hedyscepe Canterburyana in Lord Howe's Island, 450 Helianthus cucumerifolius "Orion," 296; H. Maximiliani, 364 Hemizonia pungent, 228 Hemsley, Mr. W. B., dedication of 1897 vol. of Botanical Magazine to, 441 Henderson, of Balbimie Gardens, pre- sentation to Mr., 123 Hippophae rhamuoides, 297 Herbaceous border, the, 382 Herbals, quaint conceits in o'd, 61 Henchera sanguinea, 13 Hevea seeds, tho vitality of, 12 Hibiscus cannabinus, 268 ; H. syriacus, 258 Highbury, Begonia Gloire de Lorraine, at, 440 Hippeastrum vittatum, 119 ; andSpre- kelia, the hybridisation of, 316 Hippeastrums as bedding-plauts, 191 Hogg Memorial Medal, the, 277 Hollyhocks, 331 ; at Dulwicb, 291 Homology, 224 Hooker Medal, the, 254, 285 Hop Washing Plant, a new, 160 Hop?, acreage of, 182 Horticultural Education, state of, 87 Horticulture, at Lyons, 205 : in New South Wales, 187 ; instruction in, in Fifeshire, 337 ; uses of manures in, 304 Howe's Island, Palms of Lord, 449 Hudibras, misquotation from, 108 Huntercombe Manor, 142 Hurricane, the, in the West Iodies, 237 Hurst & Sons, Messrs., annual dinner, 457 Huxley lecture by Prof. Virchow, 272 Hyacinth, an extra early flowering variety of the Roman, 256 Hyacinths and Onions on the Stock Exchange, 370 Hyacinths, the propagation of, 164 Hybrid Cinerarias, 101 Hybrid failures, 339 Hybrid Nympha5as, 147 Hybridisation of Sprekelia and Hip- peastrum, 316 Hjdrangea Hortensia as grown for market, 45 Hydrangeas in the Azores, 336, 457 Hymenocallis Amancaes, 135; H. calathina, 135 ; H. Macleana, 136; H. epeciosa, 345 Hypericum galioides, 301 Hypoxis longifolia, 174 I ImpobtcD plants, the treatment of newly, 382 Incarvillea grandiflora, 8 India, Carrots in, 457 India, Tea, Coffee, and Cinchona culti- vation in, 199 India, the rainfall in, 304 Indigo plant, structure of the feeds of the, 372 Imect, a new scale, affcoting fruit trees, 245 Insects and plants, lecture upon, 378 Insecticide, Cyanide of Potassium as an, 50, 432 Inula Hookeri, 232 Ipomcoa Quamoclit, 251 Iris reticulata in flower on Christmas Day, 474 Isleworth, garden notes from, 445 Isotoma axillaris, 298 Iwerne Minster House, 317 Japanese, arrangement of flowers by, 88 ; in an Orchid craze, 216 Java, the Cinchona industry of, 237 " Job's tears," 61 Judges and exhibitors, 445 Judging fruit, 166 Judging, idiosyncrasies of, 1S4 ; rules for, 386 Junipers, West Indian, 325 J uniperus sinensis, 27 K Kashmir, Saffron cultivation in, 379 Kent, fruit growing in, 123 Kentia Belmoreana, 449 ; K. Fcster- iana in Lord Howe's Island, 449 Kerchove, Count Chas. de. monument to, at Ghent, 274 Kew Gardens, why not a public refer- ence library in, 239 Kew Notes, 8, 42, 284, 297, 331, 378 Kew, presentation of Indian Rhodo- dendrons to, 406 ; the curator's new office at, 142 Killerton, Devonshire, 416 ; the Lucombe Oak at, 461 Kirke's Plum, 19 Kitchen garden, the, 9, 29, 48, 67, 94, 103, 121, 140, 161, 178, 197, 216, 235, 252, 271, 2S6, 303. 318, 335, 351, 366, 385, 103, 418,437,455,468 Labels, celluloid, 52 Lachenalias, 166 Lachenalias and other plants, 72 Lachenalias, the cultivation of, 47 Ladybirds and aphis, 408, 444 Lfelia anceps, 377 Ladio-Cattleja x exoniensis, 283; LC. x Henry Greenwood, 382 ; L.-C. x Schilleriana, 220 Lamport, hailstorm at, 13 Lantanas, 434 Lapageria rosea, 423 Lapagerias in the open air, 461 Lavender, with dimorphic leaves, 372 LAW NOTES :— Addison, Walter (bankruptcy case), 201 ; Carter & Co. (Trade Mark), 105 ; Chambers, W., Hounslow, bankrupt company of, 109 ; Foy, Thos. (bankruptcy case), 18 ; Jeff>rdand Goodall & Son (noxious fumes), 145; Lawton, E. H. (bankruptcy case), 144 ; McLaren v. Clarke Bros, (errorin goods supplied), 447 ; Moore J. v. Great Eastern Railway Company (carriage of goods), 110 ; Moore v. Greenfield (claim for work performed), 110; Samuel Ryder, Jun. (bankruptcy caBe), 144 ; Simpson v. Bain (action for loss of MSS.), 145 Lawson, William, and his works, 413, 435, 450, 461 Layering of plants, the, 6 Lead strip, for supporting cut-flowers in water, 88 Leaf, movements of plant-food before the fall of the, 183 Leicester, horticultural progress in the town of, 460 Lemoine's new double semperflorens Begonias, 334 Leonotis dubia, 297; L Leonurus, 350, 371 Lettuces, introduction of Cos, into France, 457, 474 Lewis & Clark s expedition, the plants from, 69 Liatris spicata, 240 Library, catalogue of the Lindley, 438 Library, sale of the late I >r. Paterson's, 457 Light, red, for plant culture, 474 Ligustrum Walkeri, 282 Lilium auratum, a large specimen of, 125 ; L. giganteum, flowering of, 309 ; L. speciosum with petaloid stamenp, 342 Lily disease, a cure for the, 42, 325 ; fungus, the, 73 ; season, the past, in Scotland, 417 Lincolnshire seed crops, the, 279 Lindley Library, catalogue of the, 438 ; history of, 438 Linospadix l'etriekiana, 298 Linton Park, 275 Lobelia, blue, the use of, 239 ; L. cardinalis atro-sanguinea, 324 ; 1,. Kivoirei, 232, 308 ; L. syphilitica, a pretty blue flower, 307 Lon'cera Hildebrandiana, 258 Lord Howe's Island, Palms of, 449 Lucombe Oak at Killerton, the age of the, 461 Lunaria minor, 61 Lycium pallidum, 43 Lyons, horticulture at, 205 M Magnolia parviflora, 42 ; M. Watsoni, 43 Maidstone, round, 232, 251, 275, 283 Ma'formed Orchids, 414 Manchester Orchid Society's awards, 12 Mandragora autumnalis, 212 ManureB, artificial, 34, 447 ; the action of, 420 ; the UBe of artificial, 46 ; in the garden, lecture on artificial, 391 ; uses of, in horticulture, 304 Margate, the Dane Park, 71 Marigold, Legion of Honour, 308 Market, Covent Garden, at Christmas- tide, 458 ; reminiscences of, 174 Market gardening, 7, 26, 90, 118, 138, 192, 232, 348, 380 ; about Rayleigh, 278, 414 ; in the Channel Isles, 452 Marley Hall, Exmouth, 54 Marine's Water-Lilies, 122 Marshall's garden, a fine specimen of Crimson Rambler Rose in Mr. W, 202 Maryland, the San Jose scale in, 316 Matricaria eximia corymbosa, fl.-pl., "Snowball," 295 Maturity in plants, conference at Lyons on early and delayed, 11 Medal, the Hogg Memorial, 277 ; the Hooker, 285 Melon, var. William Tillery, 323 ; raising, 448 ; with seeds germinating within, 128 Melons and Tomatos, 257 ; in France, the culture of, 246 Mertensia lanceolata, 212 Mersta Sinclairi (the Pukatree), 370 Mesembryanthemum culture, 422 Metropolitan open spaces, 322 Mexico, the cultivation of European plants in, 12 Mice eating Grapes, 292 Micromeria piperella, 212 Miltonia spectabilis Moreliana, 231 Mimulus primuloides, 212 ; M.radicaus, 212 "Miramar," Exmouth, 118 Moluccella frutescens, 212 Momordica mixta, 331 Mootbretias, 166, 200, 222, 240, 253 Moraceje, monograph of the African, 370 Morrab public gardens, Penzince, 199, 222 Morris, Dr., remov.il from Kew to Barbados, 105, 198 Morse's, Mr. P. R, fruit fdrms, 138 Mosquitoe3 and Malaria, 274 MoBS-litter, value of, 180 Mulgedium albanum, 212 Multiple parentige, 307, 332 Musa, a dwarfed stemmed, 422 Mushroom-bed, a failure, 448 ; wool- lice in, 106 '• My Garden " (Mr. Smee'd), 77 Myosotis alpestris, "Star of Love," 295 Myosotis in variety, 350 Myrtle fruiting out of doors, 258 N . . Names, the pronunciation of foreigi 339 Narcissus, the botany of the flower, 322 ; N. tacbybolbos, 462; N. viridiflorua, 371, 462 Natal, notes from, 66 Nectarine-Peach, red, 324 Neobenthamia gracilis, 430 Nerines, 316 ; some uncommon, 324 Netherlands, notes from the, 28 New South Wales, Horticulture in, 187 New York State College of Forestry, 316 Nicotiana sylvestris, 298 Northumberland garden, a model, 64 I Nova Scotia, 164 Nursery, a land without 8, 216 Nursery Notes : — Bland ford, Messrs., of Blandford, 278 ; Bun- yard, Geo. & Co., Maidstone, 250; Cannell, H. & Sons, Swanley, Sfl Dicksons, Chester, 193 ; Douglas J., Great Bookham, 108 ; Exeter Nursery Company, the, 176 ; Jonw H. J., Lewisham, 342 ; L'HorticuU tore Internationale Brussels, 278| The Gardeners' Chronklo, INDEX. [December 31, 18&S. V 330 ; Low, Hugh & Co., 2 ; McBean & Scn°, Cooksbridge, 212 ; Owen, R., Maidenhead, 341 ; Sucb, E. F., Maidenhead, 346 ; Truffaut, M., Versailles, 436 ; Veitch, J. & Sons, Limited, Chelsea, 90, 347, 400 ; Veiteh & Sons, R., Exeter, 159 ; Walshaw & Sons, Scarborough, 127 ; Wells, W., Earlswood, 341 Nutmegs, double, 123 Nyrupliseas and other Water-lilies 122 ; hybrid, 147 Nyssa sylvatica, 382 Oak, at Windsor, the great, 201 ; the Lucornbe at Killeitou, age of, 461 Oak-caterpillar, 12 Oakwood, Wylam-on-Tyne, 65 OBITUARY :— Aitchiscn, Dr., 274 ; Earkly, Sir Henry, 322 ; Baur, Dr. Geo., 32 ; Berkeley, Major-Genera], 427 ; Blytt, Prof. Axel, 254 ; Bonsall, T., 39 ; Brooks, Joshua (Chicago), 199; Busch, Isidore, 207; Caruel, Prof., 428; Colin, Prof. Ferdinand, 19; Esche, Robeit Von Pcmruir, 164 ; Finch-Batten, Muiray, Farl of Winchilsea, 207 ; Gibelli, Professor, 237, 421 ; Goeschke, Go'.tlieb, 325 ; Heme, William, 39 ; Jenkinson, Aithur, 427 ; Knight, John, 188 ; Micbie, C. Y., 463 ; Moniz, M. J. M., 164; Pragnell, W., 428; Pulhain, James, 151 ; Rogeis, J, P., Alderman W., 427 ; Rothschild, Baron Fer- dinand de, 457; Rus-ell, Matthew, 207 ; Shingles, Tbos., 475 ; Smith, Charles, 295 ; Suringar, Professor, 69 October in the Rose-garden, 316 Odontoglossum cri:tatellum, 378 Odontoglossunis, tetramerous, £5 ; O. grar.de var. Sanderie, 377 ; O. Harrjanum Euperbum, 114 ; O. maculatum vsr., 345 ; O. nebulosuni pardinum, 98; O. Schliereiianum citrinum, 114; O. tripudians, 37S ; 0. vexillarium, the roots of, 340 Old Ball, Southbcrcugb, the, 266 Uncidium flexuesum, 283 ; 0. incur- vum album, 282 ; O. macranthum Townsendi, 22 " One-and-All" flower-show, the, 162 Onion competition, a great, 222 Onion, "the Aristocrat," 452 Opuntias, hardy, for the alpine-garden, 378 Orange-fungus on Roses, 226, 276 Orchards in grass, 377, 443 Orchards, the renovation of old and spent, 390 Orchid, a new British, 146 Orchid-houses, the, 8, 28, 49, 66, 94, 103, 120, 141, 161, 178, 196, 217, 235, 253, 271, 287, 302, 318, 334, 351, 366, 384, 402, 436, 454, 468 Orchid noteB and gleanings, 2, 22,61, 114, 134, 154, 190, 231, 433, 450 Orchid notes, 345, 398, 41 4, 419 Orchid-pot, Sander's Perfect, 109, 126 Orchid Society, the Manchester, and its awards, 12 Orchids, malformed, 414 Orchids, Mr. T. B. Haywood's, 330 ; at Cambridge Lodge, 2 ; at Dulcote, Tunbridge Wells, 154 ; method of cultivating, 61 ; at the Poplars, 115 ; cut-of-doorp, lome, 77; the, of the Sikkim Himalaja, 218; tie lost, 105 Orchis, a new British, 61 ; a new British— a correction, 126 Organography, categories of, 224 Origanum Dictamnus, 212 ; O. pul- chrum, 212 Orobanche speciosa, 69, 89 Orphan Fund, the Royal GardenerB', 336, 353, 404, 472 Osier-beds, riverside, 282, 300, 314, 333, 361, 363, 377 PiEONY disease, s>, 124 ; cold storage of, 69 Pallanza and Isola Bella, 329, 364 Falm, the Date, in Arizona, 316 Palms of Lord Howe's Island, 449 Paper, waterproof, 276 Parentage, multiple, 307, 3S2 Palis, Jaidin d'Acclimatation, change of head gardener, 353 ; Universal Exhibition, the, 337 Parsnips, 387 Passiflora, blcom of, borne on a tendril, 27 ; P. edulis, 308 ; flower produced on tendril of a, 10, 27 Paterson's library, sale of the late Dr., 457 Pea. agoodeEily, 126 ; double Sweet, 309 ; Grimstone's history of the Egyptian, 54 ; P. Mansfield Gem, 124; P. "Nero," 295; the Rounceval, 70, 89, 107; P. The Autocrat, 339 ; the buncb, 108 ; Thos. Laxton, 47 ; trial, a suggested Royal Horticultural, 146 Feap, 126; green podded, 73; Mr. Sberwood's lecture on, 50 ; trials of, at Hurst & Son's, 98 Peach, dressing for Ecale on the, 448 ; P. Sea-Eagle, 340 ; trees, standard, in Devonshire, US ; Triumib, 181 Peaches and Nectarines, notes on, 364 Peaches, French, 4 : failure of, to set their fiuits, 181 Pear, Beurr^ u'Anjou, 3S2 ; Beuiiv Picquet, 455 ; flowers, the fertilisa- tion of, 256; leaves diseased, 325; midge, the, 354 ; the Endeavour River, 256; the Roeney, 164 ; tree bearing two crops of frui1', 387 ; within Peir, 426 Pears and Aprles, the cracking of, 341 Pears, arched cordons, 232 ; some early, at Tynuinebam, 346; priekly, in New South Wales, 442 Pelargonium, the lotting of the stem in, 237 Pelargonium?, winter -flowering zona), 333 ; zonal, select varieties of, for winter flowerirg, 424 Penjerrick gardens, 399 Pennifetum Riippelisnum, 436 Perzarce, the Monab Gardens at, 199 Persimmons, 406, 421, 42S, 482 Pfitzer'e, Mr., garden at Stultgait, 234 Pbalicnopsis Ludde-violacea, 43 Phipp'a conservatories, Pittsburgh, Pa., 3S6 Phlcmis caebrreriana, 424 Phyllccactus Hookeri, 251 Phjllostactys fulva, 246 Pinoteau, A., and his work for horti- culture, 387 Pims Cembra on the Airs, a stoim- tossed, 459 Plane, the, 190 Plane, the, oriental, 222 Plantago varia, seeds of. used as food, 274 Planting Af pie-trees, 118 Plant Portraits :— Acalypba his- pida, 306 ; Acalypla Sandenana, 70, 124 ; Acanthephippiurn Curtisii var. albielo, 114; Aeiides multifloium, 398 ; Alberts magna, 70 ; Aloe leptorhylla, 352 ; Amelanchier cana- densis var. oblongifolia, 2S9 ; Apple " Flora," 70 ; A. Pitmaston Pine- apple, 587 ; Brassavola Digbyaua and Lselio - Cattleya Digbjano- Triansei, 2 ; Erjophyllum caly- cinum, 70 ; Buddleia variabilis, 123 ; Caladenia carnea, 420 ; Calliandra fulgens, 352 ; Callicantbemum lutie- folium var. enemonoides, 50; Calli- coma serratifolia, 306 ; Callistephus hortensis, 198 ; Camellia Donke- laari, and C. Sasanqua,306; Cardamine latifolia, 420 ; Catalpa hybrids, 306 ; Catasetum splendens var. Lambergea- nurn, 2 ; Cattleya Cecilia var. elata, 398 ; C. Mossi;o var. de M. Lesueur, 39S ; C. M. var. Germinyana, 398 ; G. Schilleriana, 398 ; C. Tiiansei varp., 2 ; C. T. var. Samyana, 283 ; C. T. var. Villegontierite, 450 ; C. Maroui, 387 ; Cirropetalum pictura- tum, 114 ; Coehlioda Noetzliana var. superba, 450 ; Ccelogne Swani- ana, 50 ; Cortaderia jubata, 123 ; Cymbidium grandiflorum, 114 ; Cy- perorcbis Magtersii, 398 ; Cypiipe- diumChas. RichmaD, 398 ; C. Goweri- anum, 450 ; C. Lebruniananum x , 2; C. Niobe x, 283; C. politum, 398 ; C. purpuratum, 398 ; C. Roths- cbildianuin var. platyttcnium, 114 ; C. tessellatum norphyreum, 114 ; C. Wiucqzianum x, 114; Cypri- peoliutts, hybrid, 114 ; Cyrtosperma senegalense, 288 ; Cytisus purgans, 289 ; Deiidrobium Ainsworthi Leechianum, 114 ; D. tauiinum, 114 ; Dodecatheon, new varieties of, 442 ; Epipactis gigantea, 442 ; Eulo- phiella Peetersiana, 198 ; Eria la'i- bracteata, 51 ; Exochordagraudiflora, 387 ; Ftijoa Sellowiam, 70, 289 ; Fritillaria pluiiflora, 420 ; GeEnera Leopoldi, 70; Geumcocci-neum, 387; Grap?, Ccnseiller de Poorter, 3S7 ; Habenaria blepharoglottis, 144; Hibiscus cisplatinus, 387 ; Hyacinth Giandeur a Merveille, 124; Hydrangea Hortensia var. Mariesii, 387 ; Incarvillea Delavayi, 442 ; Ioehroma flava, 124; Iris Aitchisoni, 144; I. Alcmene, 70 ; I. cuprea, 70 ; I. ensata, 144 ; I. Grant-Duffi, 51 ; I., varieties of, 455 ; Knipbofia longi- collis, 70, £52 ; Lathyrus pubescens, 387 ; Laelia ancepj var. Ballantineana, 283; L. a. Hilliana, 114; L. Craw- shayana, 398 ; L. prsestans and L. pumila, 283 ; L. purpurata grandis var. G. ManliD, 398 ; L. p. ver. Schrederi, 398 ; Ledum gtandulo- sum, 123 ; Laelio- Cattleya Chereme- t etnas x, 3; L.-C. elegana var. de M. Fcurnier, 398 ; L.-C. Hru- byana x, 3; L.-C. x Myra, 114; Liatria odoratissima, 455 ; Lilium rubellum, 442 ; L. speciosum ru- brum, 121; Lobelia intertexta, 198; Lycaste Deppei var. praestans, 450; Masdevollia Chiutera, 114, 450 ; Metrosideros robusta, 442 ; Miltonia Bleuana var. nobilior, 398 ; M. Blunti var. Lubbertiana, 393 ; M. vexillaria var. Madouxiana, 398 ; Mimulus car- dinalis, 3S7 ; Musa Bakeri, 420 ; Nec- tarine, Hunt's Tawny, 387 ; Odonto- glossum crispum Franz Maseree), 114 ; 0. c. var. Francisci, 398 ; O. c. var. grandiflorum, 450 ; O. c. var. Lehmanni, 3 ; O. c. vsr. Mar-iae, 398 ; O. c. var. Mooreanum, 114; O. c. var. Rayon d'Or, 450 ; O. C. var. The Czar, 450 ; O. Adrianre var. Crawshayana, 3 ; O. brevifolium, 398 ; O. elegans, 398 ; O.Harvengtense, 114 ; O. Krameii,2 ; O. PeEcatorei leueoxanthum, 114; O. Pescatorei, var. Roi Leopold, 283 ; O. triumphans var. Ajax, 398 ; O. O. Vigerianum X, 283; O. x Wilckeanum var. Lindeni, 114 ; On- cidium Cavendishianum, 114 ; O. macranthum, 398 ; O. spilopterum, 114; Pachystoma Thomsonianum var. punctulata, 387 ; Paphiopedilum Rlastersianum, 420 ; P. Roths- childianum, 387; PasBiflora "Con- stance Elliott," 387 ; Pea-, " Anversoise," 306 ; P. Beurre Piceniet, 455 ; P. Doyenne1 de Juillet, 387 ; P. Eva Baltet, 70 ; Phaius Normanni x O'Brien, 114 ; Phalaenopsis Esmeralda, 398 ; Phajus Owenianus, 39S ; Phlox divaricata, 124, 144; Physostegia virginiana alba, 124 ; Podotheca chrysantba, 352; Rhododendron Minna, 387; R. rubiginosum, 289 ; R. Vaseyi, 387 ; R. yunnanenee, 198 ; Ribes villosum, 123; Rose Berthe Gemen, H.P., 455 ; R. Capt. Christy, 70; R. Charlotte Guillemot, 70 ; R. Em- press Augusta Victoria, H. T., 3S7 ; R. Father Lambert, H. T., 421 ; R. Ferdinand Jamain, H. T., 421, 442 ; R. Grand Duke Adolf of Luxemburg, H. T., 421 ; R. Griias an Teplitz, 421 ; R. Frau Geheimrath von Boch, H. T., 421, 442 ; R. Madame Jules Grolez, 442 ; R. Papa Lambert, H. P., 387 ; R. PanachcSe de Bordeaux, 70 ; R. Souvenir de Madame Euge'nie Verdier, 70 ; R. White Maman Cochet, 421; Rubus delicioBus, 70; Scutiearia Steelei, 114; Selenipedium caudatum, 114 ; Sobralia macranths, 398 ; S. Veitchi, 3SJ8 ; Strawberry Princess Clementine, 144 ; Tchihatchewia ieatidea, 123 ; Teucrium canadense, 70 ; Tritoma crocata, 144 ; Tulipa Kaufmanniana, 70 ; Tulip Siugle Early La Laitiere, 70 ; Tulips, double, 124 ; Tulips, varieties of Darwin, 887 ; Vriesia Vigeri x , 442 ; Zantedeschia Pentlandi, 387 Plants and Insects, lecture upon, 378 Plants, New or Noteworthy:— Aloe leptophylla, 352 ; Amelanchier canadensis var. oblongifolia, 289 ; Caladenia carnea, 420 ; Calliandra fulgens, 352 ; Callistephus hortensis, 198 ; the wild form of the China Aster, 254 ; Cardamine latifolia, 420 ; Cattleya Maroni, 332 ; Cereus peru- tianua monstrosus, 174 ; Cymbidium Huttoni, 2 ; Cypripedium insigne, Harefield Hall var., 466 ; Cyrtosperma EenegaleDse, 288 ; Cytisus purgans, 289; Dantea nigre6cens,413; Deutzia corymbiflora, 265 ; Eulnphiella Peetersiana, 198 ; Feijoa Sellow- iana, 289, 451 ; Fritillaria plui itlora, 420 ; Hyacinthug azureue, var. giganteus, 190 ; Hypoxia longifolia, 174 ; Kniphofia longicollis, 352 ; Liguatrum Walkeri, 282 ; Lobelia intertexta, 198 ; Lonicera Hilde- brandiana, 210; Musi Bakeri, 420; Odontoslossum grande var. Sanderae, 377 ; Oncidium macranthum Town- sendi, 22 ; Paphiopedilum Mastersia- num, 420 ; Podotheca chrysantba, 352 ; Pteris Harrisonie, 414 ; Ptychosperma Sanderiana, 330 ; Rhododendron rubiginoEum, 289 ; R. yunnanense, 198 ; Stanhopea Madouxiana, 134; Veronica Dieflen- bachi, 154 Plants under glass, 8, 29, 48, 67, 94, 103, 121, 141, 160, 179, 197, 216, 235, 252, 271, 286, 303, 318, 335, 350, 367, 384, 403, 41 8, 437, 455, 468 Platanus orientalis and its varieties, 191 Plum Blue Imperatrice, 382 Plum, crop, the, 165 ; the Davidson, 256 ; Kirke's, 19, 382 ; pockets (a disease in America), 47 ; the Wy e- dale, 382 Plums, the Green Gage group of, 465 ; Victoria, second crop of, 342 Plunged pot-plants, 257 Poggio Gnerardo, 397 Poplars, Orchida at The, 115 Poppiea, Shirley, 53, 73 Poppy-bead with pistillodic stamens, 1-17 Porto Rico, proposed botanical expedi- tion to the Island of, 471 Potassium, cyanide of, as an insecti- cide, 432 Potato crop, the, in the United States, 123 Potato, planter, a new, 207 ; decayed, 325 ; diseases, 134 ; the history of the, 456 Potatos, blackening when boiled, 372 ; outgrowths on, 128 ; singular growths in the tubers of, 144 ; with scab, 372 Potentilla Thunbergi, 108 VI TliC Gardeners' Chronicle,] INDEX. tDe«ember31, 1808. Powderham Castle, 298 Preston Hall, 232 Prickly Pears in New South Wales, 442 Primula Trailli, 12 Primula, what is the correct name of the old double white ? 25S Propagation of an Aloe by leaves, 423 Propagation, the, of bulbs, 422 Protection and shelter in forestry, 214, 236 Proustia pyrifolia, 142 Pruning, the principles and practice of, 133, 154 Prunus lusitanicus var. azorica, 462 Pteris Harrisons, 414 Ptychcsperma Sanderiana, 330, 435 Puka-tree, the, and its home, 345, 370 Pyretirum flowers, arrested, J 5 Pyrus crenata, 426, 466 Queecus coccinca, with flowers having styles in place of Blame ns, 290 R Rabbits and Hares, destructive ness of, 474 Radish, Eiszapfen (Icicle), 436 Radish Triumph, 296 Rainfall at Ullswater, the, 353 ; east and west, 444 ; the, and well springs, 200 ; record in India, 304 Ranunculus Lyalli, 276 Rayleigh, market - gardening about, 278, 414 Red glass for plant culture, 424 Refuse, how to dispose of street, 272 Regent's Park, flower gardening at, 156 Remarks on the fruit crops, 106, 116, 137, 157 , Rhododendron Chama?cistus, 3S0 ; R. cinnabarinum, 43 ; grafting, 425 ; R. Smithi aureum, 43, 126 Rhus Toxicodendron, 381 Ridgemont experimental fruit farm, 09 Rise Park, near Hull, 72 Riviera notes, 424 ; Rose3 on the, 274 Rivina tinctoria and R. humilis, 402, 444 Roberts, Mr. D., presentation to, 220 Rochea falcata, hybrid between, and Crass u la coccirjea, 143 Rochford's employes, annual dinner of Mr. Thos , 457 Rockeries, new and rare plants for, 211, 466 Rogers, presentation to Alderman, 338 Rosary, the, 62, 167, 248, 283, 362 Rose, Crimson Rambler, 166 ; a flue specimen of, in Mr. Marshall's gar- den, 202 ; R. Dawn, 68 ; R. Edith Turner, 105; R. Enchantress, 88; R. gigantea flowering at Capetown, 421 ; garden, the, in October, 316; grower, the anxieties of a, 113; R. KaiEerin Augusta Victoria, 62 ; R. Milton, H.P., 86; R. Mrs. John Liing, 421 Roses, autumn flowering, 248; at the Crystal Palace, 30 ; at the Crystal Palace shows, 283 ; autumn, 362 ; British, of recent origin, 62 ; hybrid Tea, 167 ; in Scotland, 19 ; in the Riviera, 274 ; orange fungus od, 226 ; Scots, at Dalkeith, 41 ; the hardiness of hybi id, 184; theorange fungus on, 276 Royal Horticultural Society, awards cf the Floral Committee of the, 72 Rubber, export of, from the Amazon region, 164 Rudbeckia bicolor, 239 ; R. b. e,uperba, 200 Ruellia macrantha, 364 Rules for judging, 386 Rust, the, of Chrysanthemums, 269, 292, 324, 339, 407, 423 Rusts of cereals, Prof. Eriksson's obser- vations upon, 269 Saffron cultivation in Kashmir, 378 St. Andrew's University, the botanical garden at, 22 Salpichroa rhomboidea in fruit, 450 Sander's perfect Orchid-pan, 126 San Jose scale in Maryland, 316 Saxifraga peltata, 166, 475 Scale-insect, a new, 245 Scale on the Peach-tree, dressing for, 443 Schedule-making, and judging, 200 Sclizanthue, S Schizanthus, the, as a decorative plant, 65. SchloES Dyck, the princely garders at, 442 School and college bo'nnic gardens, 22 Schoob, Surrey County Gardening, 433 Science and labour, 440 Scientific Committee : — Akebia quinata, fruitirg of, at Joldwynds, Doiking, 372 ; Apple diseased, 325 ; Apple, with " glatsiness," 325; Apple trees, cankered, 372 ; diseased. 462 ; AsparagusSprengeri.varietiesof, 462 ; Asters, diseased, 128 ; Beeches dying, 55; Begonia, a monstrous, 372; B. venosa, 462 ; Caterpillars, 462; Cherry leaves diseared, 55; Chrysanthemums, dompirg cf, 342 ; Crassulaceous hybrid, 147; Currant and Goose- berry by brid, 55 ; Currant, black, shoots falling, 55 ; Cyclamen euro- pium, with long rhizomes, 372 ; Cyprifediuminsigne, malformed, 342; Dahlia, crossed with the Sunflower, 325, 426 ; dimerous Cattleya granu- loma, 147 ; Dicspyros Kaki, fruit of, from Canon EUacombe's garden, 342 ; Flowers, the colours of, and drought, 325 ; Hybrid Njmphseas, 147 ; In- digo plant, structure of the seeds of the, 372 ; Lavender, with dimorphic leaves, 372 ; Lilium specio;um, with petaloid stamens, 342 ; Lily disease, a cure for, 325 ; Melon with seeds germinating within, 128 ; Narcissus pacbybolbos, 462 ; N. viridiflorus, 462 ; Odontoglossum, tetramerous, 55 ; Pear-leaves dieeased, 325 ; Pear within Pear, 426 ; Plums, Victoria, a second crop cf, 342; Plymouth Strawberry, 147 ; Poppy- head, with pistillodic stamens, 147; Potato, dicayed, 325 ; Potatos, blackening when boiled, 372 ; Potatos, outgrowths on, 128 ; Potatos, with Ecab, 372 ; Primus lusitanica var. azorica, 462 ; Pyrus crena*a, 426 ; Pyretbrum flowers, arrested, 55 ; Scolopendrium variety, 147 ; Tea- plants over-run by mites, 426 ; Teazel - head, proliferous, 372 ; Tomato with red and yellow fruit, 146 ; Tomatos affected with "sleepy " disease, 128 ; Tomato3 with Imlbi- ferous stems, 325 ; Tomatos with supernumerary carpels, 147 ; Vine, tuberous growth on, 55 Scien and stock, the reciprocal action of, 238 Scolof endrium, Mr. Marshall's sin- gular variety of, 147 Scilopenilrium nigripep, 333 Scotland, 277, 2s 6, 346, 459, 467 (see aUo Edinburgh, Royal Caledonian Society, &o.) Scotland, Carnations in the open in, 195 ; Christmas flowers, &c. , in, 459 ; Chrysanthemums in, 409, 445, 462; Roses in, 19 Scotland, state forestry in, 104 ; the past Lily season in, 417 ; Tomatos a? a farm crop for, 354 Scottish Manse garden, a, 186 Scutellaria orien talis var. pinnatifida, 34 Seaside-planting, 368 Season, flowers out of, a protest, 209 Season, flowers out of, why not '!, 240 Season, the, and its effects, 389 Season, 1898, the (see Isltwortb, notes from), 444 Sechium edule, 476 Seed crops, the Lincolnshire, 279 Seed-trade, 98, 237 Seeds, Hevea, vitality of, 12 Seeds, the cleansing of Tomato, 444 Selaginella denticulata, the hardinefs of, 354, 388 Selaginellas, the species and varieties of, 430 Self- fertilisation, 69 Sex of plants, influence of heat in determining the, 8S6 Shirley Poppies, 53, 73 Shows, a wash and brush-up at, 12 Shrewsbury, large prizes to beoftered for exhibits of Grapes at, 407, 424, 441, 474 Shrubs that succeed when grown beneath trees, 216 Shrubs the cultivation and care of, 400; with beautiful leaf-tints, 307 Siliquastrum, the name, 61 Silphium laciniatum, 364 Smilax, 61 Snowdrop, Mr. Whittall's giant, 466 Snowdrops, autumnal, 414 SOCIETIES : Aberdeen Chrysanthe- mum, 411 ; American Horticultural Club, 238 ; Ancient Society of York Florists, 395 ; Ascot Horticultural, 359 ; Ayrshire Horticultural, 187 ; Bath Floral Fete, 204 ; Peccles Chi'jsanthemum, 375; Birmingham Chrysanthemum, 373, 392 ; Bishop's Stortford Horticultural, 147 ; Brad- ford Chrysanthemum, 392; Brighton and Sussex Horticultural, 87 ; Brighton Chrysanthemum, 393 ; Bristol District Property Protection, 4 74 ; British Association, the, 202, 224, 240 ; British Mycological, 263 ; British Pteridological, 130 ; Cactus, 87; Cardiff Horticultural, 75 ; Castle- ford Horticultural, 111 ; Cbambre Syndicale des Horticulteurs Beiges, 221, [457 (see also Ghent); Chelms- ford and Essex Horticultural, 57; Chester PaxtoD, 393, 463; Chesterfield Horticultural, 110; County of Gloucester and Chel- tenham Royal Horticultural, 243 ; Coventry Chrysanthemum, 373 ; Croydon Horticultural, 17 ; Derby Hoiticultural, 225 ; Devizes Chrys- anthemum, 392 ; Devon and Exeter Gardeners', 57, 279, 328, 447 ; Devon and Exeter Horticultural, 170, 359, 447 ; Durham, Northumber- land, and Newcastle Botanical and Horticultural, 58, 441 ; Dutch Hor- ticultural and Botanical, 106, 221, 336, 352, 441 ; Ealing Horticultural, 39, 358 ; Eastbourne Horticulture', 313 ; East Cowes Horticultural, 92; Edinburgh Field Naturalists' and Microscopical, 36 ; Exmouth Chrys- anthemum, 342 ; Eynsford Horti- cultural, 171 ; Ghent Cbambre Syndicale, 147, 28S ; Glasgow Hor- ticultural, 225; Gloucestershire Rose, 57 ; Great Yarmouth Chrysanthe- mum, 393 ; Hanley Chrysanthe- mum, 374 ; Hanley Horticultural Fete, 39 ; Harrogate Chrysanthe- mum, 169, 375 ; Hastings Horticul- tuial, 148 ; Hayes Chrysanthemum, 375 ; Hereford Fruit and Chrysan- themum, 357 ; Highgate Chrysan- themum, 373 ; Hornsey Chrysan- themum, 344 ; Hornsey Horticul- tural, 111 ; Horticultural Club, 32, 368,462; 11 nil Chrysanthemum, 394 ; Lie of Wight Horticullural, 35, 360 ; Kenilworth Horticultural, 74 ; Kent County Chrysanthemum, 358 ; Kingston Chrysanthemum, 343 ; Kingswood and West Gloucester- shire Horticultural, 186 ; Launceston Chrysanthemum and Fruit, 374 ; Lee, Blackheath, Lewisham, and West Kent Horticultural, 39 ; Leeds Flower Show, 18; Leeds Paxton, 394 ; Leicester Chrysanthemum, 375; Leicester Horticultural, 111; Linnean, 404, 440 ; Liverpool Chrysanthemum, 374; Loughborough Gardeners, 225, 294, 393; Maiden- head Horticultural, 204, 359 ; Maiden Horticultural, 73 ; Man- chester and North of England Orchid, 36, 110, 149, 279, 311, 342, 375, 411, 462 ; Manchester Royal Botanical, 395 ; Marlow Horti- cultural, 169 ; Midland Carnation and l'icotee, 131 ; Milveiton Horti- cullural, 148 ; Monmouth Chrys- anthemum, 374 ; National Auricula and Primula, 462 ; National Carnation, 93, 462 ; National Chrysanthemum, 206,279, 295, 320, 327,355, 372, 395, 426, 463, (Annual Dinner) 411, (Annual Outing) 86 ; National Dahlia, 198, 205, 2SS, 446 ; National Rose, 13, 36, 73, 386, 406; National Viola, 35; Newcastle and District Mutual Improvement, 311, 392 ; Newport and County Horticultural, 110 ; Norfolk and Norwich Horti- cultural and liose, 35, 410 ; Northampton Chrysanthemum, 374 ; North of Scotland Root, Fruit, and Vegetable, 373 ; Paisley Horti- cultural, 359 ; People's Palace Hor- ticultural, 92, 199 ; Plymouth Chrysanthemum, 360 ; Portsmouth Chrysanthemum, 358 ; Putney and Wandsworth Chrysanthemum, 359, 446 ; Quebec Pomological, 238 ; Reading Horticultural, 74 ; Redhill, Reigate, and District Carnation and Picotee, 129 ; Richmond Horticul- tural, 17 ; Royal Aberdeen Horti- cultural, 171,187 ; Royal Agricultural Society's show, horticulture at, 13 ; Royal Botanic, 105, 130, 406; ■ — subjects for coming lectures under the auspices of the, 472 ; Royal Caledonian Horticultural, 208, 226, 243 ; Royal (annual meeting), 407 ; Royal Horticultural, 13, 34,55, 91, 105, 128, 146, 168, 186, 202, 241, 293, 325, 356, 375, 390, 445, 462 ; R. H. S. (Crystal Palace Fruit Show), 259 ; R. H S. (fixtures for 1S98), 368, 461 ; Royal Scottish Arboricultural, 52, 130; Rugby Chrysanthemum, 393; Sandy and District Horticultural, 187 ; Scottish Horticultural, the, 36, 75, 130, 225, 294, 357, 376, 395, 427 ; Sevenoaks Horticultural, 147 ; Shirley and District Gar- dtDtrs', 74, 149, 243, 311, 395,463 ; Stropshire Horticultural, 149; SmithfieldClub, 421 ; Socidtd Nation- ale d'Horticulturo de Franc, 392 ; Southampton Horticultural, 344 ; Southern Counties CamatioD, 93 ; Swansea Horticultural, 187; Taunton DeaneHoiticultural,14S; Teignmouth Gardeners', 394 ; Torquav Gardeners' 358 ; Trowbridge Horticultural, 170 ; Ulster Horticultural, 375 ; United Horticultmvl Benefit and Provident, 294 ; Wargiave and District Gar- deners' Mutual Improvement, 36, 147, 279, 358, 446, 475 ; Wellingboro and Midland Dahlia, 226 ; Welling- borough Chrysanthemum, 392 ; Welshpool Horticultural, 130 ; Winchester Chrysanthemum, 393 ; Winches'er Gardeners', 106 ; Wind- sor, Eaton, and District Rose and Horticultural, 16 ; Windsor Chrys- themum, 375; William Hort cultural, 36; Wokingham end District Chrys- anthemum, 411 ; Wolverhampton Chrysanthemum, 358 ; Wolverbamp- ten Flcral Fete, 57; Wood Green and District Horticultural, 13 ; York- shire FunguB Foray, 225 ; Yorkshire Naturalists' Union, 32, 86, 199 Soil, the fertility of the, 430 Soudan exhibition, seeds for, 237 Spain, the Olive crop in, 274 Sparrow, the, 34 Sphagnum moss, 196 SpirEea arioafolia, 125 Spital fields Market, 87 Spraying of fruit-trees, rexperimental, 300, 353 Tlw Gardonors' Chronicle,] INDEX. IDocemborSl, 188S. yil Sprekelia and Hippeastrum, the hy- bridisatfon of, 316 Springs, well, and the rainfall, 200 Spruces dropping their leaves, 277, 292 Stanhopea Madouxiana, 134 ; S. Rodi- gasiana, 32 Stapelia longideus, 7 State Horticultural education, 87 Sterculia neo-caledonica, 34 Stock-taking, S2, 123, 220, 290, 353, 441 Stoneleigh Abbey, 323 Storage, cold versus cool, 72 Storm in Oxfordshire, severe, 1S5 Strawberry plants, blindness among, 108, 125, 146, 23 > ; cure for, 89 Strawberry, crop, the, 12 ; culture in Frame, 102 Strawberry Monarch, 73, 103 Strawberry plants, defective, 147 Strawberry-Raspberry, 88, 105, 303 Strawb;rry Royal Sovereign, 146, 403 ; the Plymouth, 147; Veitch's Prolific, 78, 353 Strawberries, at Maidstone, 53, 119 ; the certification of seedling varieties of, 223 ; perpetual fruiting, 164, 169 ; retarding of, 237 Street refuse, how to dispose of, 272 Stuttgart, Mr. W. Pfitzer's garden at, 234 Suburban garden?, fruit cultivatioa in, 243 Surrey Cmnty gardening schools, 433 Sweet Pea, new double, 286 Sweet Peas, dwarf, 73 Switzerland, trees in the mountainous districts of, 236 Sydney Botanic Garden?, 180 Seringas, varieties of new, 100 Taqbtes patula, fl. pi. "Sulplur Liliput," 296 Tapeinanthus humilis, 333, 354 Taxus adpressa, 364 Tea-plants overrun by mites, 426 Teazel head, proliferous, 372 Temple House, Great Marlow, 101 Terminology, methods of, 224 Tewin AVater, 214 Temperature low on July 28, 108 Thibaudia acuminata, 473 Thornbridge Hall Gardens, 222 Thunderstorm in Somersetshire, 166 Toe oc a formicaria, 18 Tomato, resembling a cottage-loaf, 309 ; the Perfect, 258 ; with red and yellow fruit, 146 ; seeds, cleauing of, 444 Tomatos, 200, 350 Tomatos aud Melons, 257 Tomatos, affected with "Sleepy" disease, 1^8 ; as a farm-crop in Scot- hnd, 236, 354; at Mr. William Lawrenson's Nurseries, 26 ; in col- lections of vegetables, 462 ; in Guernsey, 453 ; the utilisation of green, 390 ; with supernumerary carpels, 147 ; with balbiferous stems, 325 ; trained spirally, 444 Torquay, Chamserops oxeslsa at, 420 Torquay, Dr. Hamilton Ramsay's garden at, 387 Toxicophljea spectabilis, 461 Trachellum cooruleum, 401 Tranwaal, horticulture in the, 254 Tregothnan, 400 Trelissiek Gardens, 400 Trees and shrub3, notable, 125, 190, 234, 363, 382,466 Tree-Violets, 54 Trees, flowering-plants under, 4 Trees, pollarding, 96 Trees, street, in Bath, 233 Trichopilia Lehmanni, 345 Trifolium suaveolens fo'.iis aursis, 296 Tring Park, Orchids at, 300 Trinidad notes, 100 Tropical fruits at Kew, 268 Tupelo, the, or Sour-gum, 382 Turf aerator, a, 207 Tuiio, notes from, 2S1 Turnford Hall Nurserie;, annuil dinner at, 457 Tydaus, 3S1 u United States, crops in the, 221 University, a national, for America, 140 Vanda x Miss Joachim, 123 Vaporisation with XL- ill, 13 Vegetables, 8, 47, 70, 124 ; Tomat03 in collections of, 462 Veltheimia glauca, 398 Verbena venosa, 384 Veronica Lindsayi, 331 Versailles, horticultural features of, 425, 435 Victoria, notes froai, 66 Victoria Park, Tipton, 98 Vienna, the public girJeas at, 306 Veronica parviflora, 185 Vinca minor, 53 Vine, the "browning" of the, 69 Vine, tuberous growth on, 55 Vines, and Richards' XL-All Vapori-er, 34 Vineyards, the ancient, of England, 419,474 Viola Dache3s of Sutherland, IS Viola, whit is a ? 26 Violets in frames, dampingoff of, 4 48 Violets, the chemical constituents of, 11 Virgin Islanls, the, 47 Vitis heterophylla variegata, 54 W Wallflowers, 350 Walnuts, showing how castoin in trade alters, 145 Wa-psaud wasp stings, 185 Wasps, scarcity of, 146, 166 Water and bog-garden, the, 45 Water-Lilies, 122 ; at Gunuersbary House, 46 Waterproof paper, 276 Weather and the crops, the, 164 ; during August at Windsor, 200 ; influence on farm and garden crops, 63 ; the hot, 220 AVebb, Mr. E. Stailey, coming of age of, 32 Weed-killer, a, 207 ; an explosion of a, 34 AVellsprings and the rainfall, 200 AVelsh gardens, sone, 313 Welwitsshia, g'rm'natioa of, 475 Welwitschia, the, 68 ; country, the, 27 West Indies, the, 105 AVheat crop of 1898, the, 340 AVheat prospects in United States, 52, 121 Whortleberry, the, 258 AVidnes, a piblic park for, 142 AVilliamsoa'sgirdeu,the Rev. D R, 186 Wimbledon House, 224 ; anl grounds, the fate of, 309 Window gardening, 332 AVindsor, the Great Oak at, 201 AVineberry in Scotland, the, 273 AVine ferments, experiments in France, 174 Witch-Hazel, a new, 363 AVoburn experimental fruit farm, 59 AVoodlice in Mushroom-bed, 103 AVoods, our, and forests, 176,213, 301 308, 379, 402 Workmen's Compensation Act, 1897, the, 441 Wright's, Mr., market fruit-garden3 at Rayliigh, 414 AVyelale Plum, 382 Xyi.ebokus morigerus, 388 Year 1 S9S, retrospect of the, 470 Yorkshire College, Leeds, the Bo- tanical Garden at, 22 Zoo, fl ower gardeniug at the, 182 Vlli The Gardeners' Chronicle,] INDEX. tr/ecerabcr31, 1S9S. LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS. Alps, a Btorm-tossed Pinus Cembra oa the, 459 Althaea, Primrose Gem, 115 Amaryllis Belladonna, Kew varie'y, 315 Anthurium crystallinum, var. illustre, 417 Apple, Ballenora PippiD, 407 ; Bis- marck, 257 ; Chelmsford Wonder, 257 ; Golden Spire, 253 ; Lewis' Incomparable, 371 ; Lord Hindlip, 259 Araucaria imbricata at Bicton, 154 Arundinaria, arista'a, 215 ; Lay- dekeri, a seedling plant of, 275 ; metallica, 273; nitida, 211 Aza'ea indica at Cljno Castle, 101 Azores, bodges of Hydrangea HortenBia in the, 337 Basket of Orchids, a, 309 Beech, a purple, in Miss Sullivan's garden at Fulham, 305 Begonia flower, a monstrous, 365 Begonia Gloire de Lorraine, house of, in Mr. Chamberlain's garden at High- bury, 439 Bicton, Araucaria imbrioata at, 151 ; vie»s in the grounds at, 183 Bignonia purpurea, 399 Botanic garden, the, at Yorkshire Col- lege, 25; University of St. Andrew's, 23 Bouquet, a feather-woight shower, 307 Bramwoods Gardens, Chelmsford, an exceedingly fine plant of Dendrobium Deirei from, 193 Broom House, Fulham, a Purple Beeoh tree at, 305 Buddleia variabilis, 139 Bulbs, methods of propagating, 443 Campanula, Medium calycanthema, 65 ; mirabilis, 33 Canna, a sportive, 379 Cirnation, Queen of the Yellows, 125 Carnations, Souvenir de la Malnraison, at Dover House, 3, 5 ; at Iff erne Minster, 317 Carrot, a monstrous, 461 Ca'.tleya x Maroni, 332 ; C. velutina, 333 Cereus peruvianus monstrosus, 175 Chestnut, an aged, in the gardens at East Sutton Park, Maidstone, 283 Chrysanthemum, Golden Shower, 401 ; nipponicum, 349 ; R. Hooper Pear- son, 369 ; What Ho, 405 ; rust fungus, the, 269, 295 Cirropetalum appendieulatum, 415 Cladosporium dendriticum, 341 Colchicum, a new species of, 473 Combe Abbey, views in the gardens a', 230, 231 C'ratiogus, Oxyacantha var. horrida, 13 Crimson Rambler Rose, view of a, in Mr. Marshall's garden at Bexley, 203 Curculigo, a plant arising from a bud on leaf of, 443 D Dahlia " Fantasy," 239 Darlingtonia californica, a specimen plant of, 339 Dendrobium, beetle, a, 3S9 ; Dearei, a fine plant of, 191 ; densiflorum, a fine plant of, 185 ; formosum giganteum, at Gunnersbury House Gardens, 471 Deutzia corymbiflora, 267 Diaspis amygdali, a new fruit scale insect, 245 Disease of Pseonies, 124 Dover House, Souvenir do la Mal- makon Carnations at, 3, 5 East Burnham Park, Slough, view in the gardens at, 51 Eremurus Elwesianus, from M, Micheh's garden near Geneva, 137 Escallonia Langleyensls, 11 Feijoa Sellowiana, flowering shoot and fruit of, 451 Pig, Bourjassote Grise, 251 Flower Garden at Thornbridgo Hall, Derbyshire, views of the, 221, 223 Fungus, the rust, on Chrysanthemums, 269, 295 Gladiolus Quaninianus superbup, 467 Glendaragh, Teignmouth, wall at, 289 Gooseberry-disease, the (/Ecidium grossulariae), 145 Gosford, view of a lake in Earl WemyEs' garden at, East Lothian, 181 Grafting Rhododendrons, 425 Gunnersbury House Gardens, Dendro- bium formosum giganteum at, 471 H Highbury, Begonia Gloire de Lorraine as grown at, 439 Hill & Co.'s Nursery, Hydrangea Hor- tensia as grown 'n, 45 Hippeastrum vittatum, 119 Hoeg, the, Memorial Medal, 277 Hollyhocks adorning a border at Dul- wich, 291 Hooker Medal, the, 285 Hyacinths, a method of propagating, 443 Hyacinthus azureus var. gigantous, 191 Hydrangaa Hortensia, hedge of, in the Azores, 337 Hydrangea Hortensia in Messrs. Hill & Co.'s nursery, 45 Hypericum galioides, 301 Hypoxia longifolia, 177 Iwerke Minstor, Carnations at, 317 Japanese, arrangementof flowers by, I Kentia Kersteniana, 391 Ljelio-Catileya x Henry Greenwood, 383 Ligustrum Walkcri, 282 Lily, new bulbs arising from a bulb scale of, 443 Linospadix ? Petrickiana, 299 Lobelia Rivoirei, 233 Lonicera Hildebrandiana, 219 M Margate, a view in the now town park at, 71 Medal, the Hogg Memorial, 277 ; tho Hooker, 285 N Neobenthamia gracilis, showing habit and floral details of, 430 ; N. g., a spike of flowers grown at Glasnevin, 431 Oak, the great, in the home park, Windsor, 201 Odontoglossum crispum Lehmanni (Schofleld's var.), 147 Onion, a dish of the " Aristocrat," 453 Opuntia galapageia, 266 Orchid-pot, the " Perfect" 109 Orchids, a basket of, 309 Oxalis crenata, tubers of, 456 P^eony disease, a, 121 Passiflora bloom upon a tendril, 27 Pear attacked by Cladosporium den- driticum, 341 Phalsenopsis Ludde-violacea, 43 Phyllostachys fulva, 247 Pinus Cembra, a storm-tossed, 459 Polypodium grande X nigrescens, 362 ; P. n. (supposed female), 363 ; P. vulgare var. grandiceps, supposed malo parent of P. grande X nigrescens, 363 Portrait of the Rt. Hon. Earl Grey, 162 Proustia pyrifolia, 143 Puccinia Hieracii, theChryeanthemum rust, 269 Ptychosperrna Sanderiana, 435 Rhododendron grafting, 425 Rogers, J. I1., Alderman W., portrait of, 427 Rose " Enchantress " ?s a standard, 88 St. Andrew's University, Botanic Garden at, 23 Salpichroa rhomboidea, in flower and fruit, 450 Scale insect, a (Diaspis Amygdali), 245 Scolopendrium vulgare, a dimorphic variety of, 159 Sechium edule, 476 Sirex gigas, 280 Stanhopea Madouxiana, 135 ; S. Rodi- gasiana, 31 Stapelia longidens, 7 Stoneleigh Abbey, views in the grounds at, 320, 321 Strawberry-Raspberry, the, 88 Strawberry, Veitch's " Prolific," 78 Taxodium distichum at Stoneleigh Abbey, 320 Terrace garden at Broomfield, view of a, 165 Thombridge Hall, Bakewell, views of the flower garden at, 221, 223 V Veitch's garden at Slough, view in Mr., 51 View in the Cattleya house of Joseph Broome, Esq. (Llandudno), 255 Veronica Dieffenbachi, 155 ; V. Lind- sa)i x , 331 Victoria Park, Tipton, 99 Viuca minor, seed vessel of, 53 W Welwitscuia mirabilis, showing mag- nified male flower of, 62 Welwitschia, the, showing malo and female cones, &c. , 63 Window-box at Richmond, view of a, 167 Windsor, the great Oak in the home- park at, 201 Xyleborus morigerus, the (Dendro- bium-beetle), 389 Yorkshire College, Leeds, botanic gar- den at, 25 SUPPLEMENTARY ILLUSTRATIONS. Abbotsbury, Newion Abbot, View of inE Rookery in the Gardens at, Rose Dawn, July 23. August 27. Cham-erops exoelsa in Dr. Hamilton Bamsay's Garden at Torquay, December 10. Hydranoea Hortensia in the Azores, December 24. Mokrab Public Gardens, Penzance, View in the, September 10. Ppitzeb'b Garden at Stuttqart, View of Mr., September 24. Rose Edith Turner, August 6. Rose Milton, H.P., July 30. Vanda x Miss Joacquim, from the Collection of Sir T. Lawrence, August 13. View in Dr. Hamilton Ramsay's Garden at Torquay, November 26. View in Miss Sullivan's Garden at Broom House, Fclham, November 12. BRADBURY, AGNEW, AND CO, LIMD., PRINTERS, LONDON AND TOSBRIDGE, July 2, 189S.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. THE xamwers. THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE, [JulV 2, 1S9S. 14. Describe tlie culture of Scakale, Asparagus, and French Beans ; aud the best method of forcing them. 15. What are the best manures for kitchen and fruit- gardens ? How ought they to be applied, and when ? 10. Describe the propagation and culture of Roses and Carnations intended to be cultivated under glass. Notices of Books. A Text Book of Botany. By Dr. E. StraBburger, Dr. Fritz Noll, Dr. H. Schenk, and Dr. A. F. W. Schimptr ; translated from the German by H. C. Porter, Ph.D. (Macmillan & Co., 8vo, pp. 599, tigs. 504.) Bhitish and American students are under an obliga- tion to Dr. Porter for his translation of this standard treatise. It is not intended for beginners, but for advanced students, and those who have need of a standard book embracing all or most of the newest discoveries and the most novel views. Morphology is studied so far as it can be phylogenetically, that is, from the ancestral or hereditary point of view, and " ontogenetically," or from the comparative study of the development and growth of existing individual plants. The former is, of course, mainly conjectural, the latter is actual. Physiology — the action under various conditions, external and internal, of protoplasm — follows next in order. Purely physical influeaces, such as gravity, do not account for all the phenomena we witness, the shoot, like the ascending sap, ascends directly con- trary to the influence of gravitation ; the root, on the other hand, descends, and the root-stock creeps on the surface, though the physical condition* may be the same in each case. We can only suppose that the protoplasm is stimulated by light in the one case, by water in the others, to bend in the direction most beneficial at the time. To say that the movements are due to the forces of growth is to make an asser- tion, aud leave it unsupported by evidence. Whether we admit a vital force or not, at any rate, all concur tint living protoplasm is sensitive to impressions — is "irritable," as the technical phrase has it; whilst dead protoplasm is no more sensitive than any inorganic or dead substance. The third section h devoted to " Special Botany," under which headiug we have a general account of the present system of classification of plants, the arrangement followed being that of Alexander Braun, as modified by Eichler and Eugler. The deBcript o i of the several classes is given in a diffuse verbose style, which renders them disserta- tions not descriptions. This is not peculiar to this volum?, but is general in modern German text-books, and copied faithfully in recent English ones. How we long, in perusing these long disser- tations, for the descriptions of Liunseus without a superfluous word, and for the clear, definite state- ments of Lindley. The reader has to toil through a page or two — perhaps Beveral pages — of detailed description before he can light upon any con- trasting or definite statement which he can compare with others. Desirous, we will say, of knowing what Ferns are, and wherein they differ from allied orders, the reader has to read as many pages as his forefather would have had to peruse lines, to get at the required information. It is only fair to say that the present work is considerably clearer, and less wordy than many German books, ami it has, as far as we can judge, been well translated. We find no mention of the discovery of spermatozoids in Cycas and in Ginkgo, so that we imagiue the work was out of hand before this very important discovery was made known. As a text-book of the highest class, this work deserve*, and will, we doubt not, obtaiu a place among the very foremost. the author, but that manuscript was incomplete, and had not received the final revision of the writer. Professor Trail's task has therefore been no light one. He has received willing aid, which he is careful to acknowledge. Perthshire is one of the most interest- ing, botanically speaking, of all the counties, and a complete flora of it is a boon to local botanists and tourists. The report of an address on the origin of The Flora of Perthshire, by Dr. Buchanan White himself, forms an appropriate introduction to the volume ; whilst the memoir will be read with much interest by those who only knew the author by name. It may be pertinent to suggest to local botanists that they should cast their eyes over the garden-wall and tell us what crops of fruit and vegetables are grown above certain levels, aud what exotic trees thrive in the policies. A great deal of useful information as to local climate and its influence on vegetation might thus be obtained to supplement, and often, we doubt not, to illus- trate that obtained from the wild plants. We note in passing that in many parts of Perthshire the flowers aud Ivy are only fully developed in warm autumns. Possibly equally good results would arise from such investigations as are to be had from the minute study of " critical " plants. The significance of variations is no doubt all im portant, but when we find the " critics " holding discordant views, no two of them agreeing as to the limitations of the varieties of Water Buttercup, or brambles, for instance, it is allowable to ask whether a little more study of the variations and adaptation to environ- ment noticed in plants under cultivation might not be desirable. It is curious to note that, while a large number of variations of Hieracium, Rubus, and other genera are mentioned, not a single variety or variation is specified in the case of the Lady Fern, scores of which are enumerated by the Fern lovers. They must surely occur in Perthshire. Elementary Botany. By Percy Groom, M.A., F.L.S. (George Bell & Sons ) The object of this little book is a good one — to awaken and improve the observant faculties, and to encourage sound deductions from what is observed. Instead of beginning with details that not one student in a hundred ever has, or can have, a chance of seeing for himself — details which must always be left for the expert to discover and corelate — the author of the present volume begins with what may be seen by any beginner with no more elaborate tools than a penknife and a pocket magnifying-glass. Passing systematically from the simple to the more complex — from the root to the fruit — the author reviews the subject of vegetable morphology, and gives a brief summary of the main phenomena of vegetable physiology. The appendix of technical terms contains, we are told, some terms which are actually incorrect and misleading. This, we suppose, is the case with the tigellum, which is said to be used (by whom ?) as a synonym of the word plumule. The Flora of Perthshire. By Francis Buchanan W. White, M.D. . . . Edited by Jamei W. II. Trail, A.M., M.I). (Printed for tho Pertlraliiie Society of Natural Science by William lilackwood & Sons.) This is a bojk with an unfortunate history. Tho greater part was in manuscript before the death of A Manual of Agricultural Botany, from the German of Dr. A. B. Frank ; translated by John W. Paterson. (William Blackwood & Sons ) In this little treatise the agricultural student is at once introduced into the mysteries of Sehizophytes, Mesomycetes, Archegoniata, and such like, before he has been told how to distinguish between Barley and Rye, Swedes and Mangolds. In other words he is taught, of necessity, to rely on what other people have seen, rather than what he can see for himself. Knowledge is of little or no use unless the recipient is able to apply it. In the present work two pages at the most are devoted to the bacteria. It may be left to the reader to conjecture what amount of real know- ledge can be conveyed to the agricultural student in so small a space, or how much a tyro could be expected to appreciate the extremely complex and obscure action of these infinitesimal creatures. For one who has already some knowledge of botany, and wishes to refresh his memory, this little book may be useful. It is illustrated with numerous woodcuts. British Orchids. Mb. A. D. WebBter has published through Messrs. J. S. Virtue & Co., 2fi, Ivy Lane, a second edition of his work on this subject, to satisfy the demand for information on this most fascinating group of plants. Long before Darwin had turned his search-light on to the group, botanists were enamoured with it, and the search for and discovery, say of a bee Orchis, gave a joy not to be appreciated by the profane. In Kent, at any rate. Orchids are associated with many other distinct and interesting plants, bo that the chalk downs and chalk woods of the county are sources of unspeakable delight to the harmless botanist. Unsympathetic game - keepers are, however, a nuisance. Not only do they shoot rare birds, but they suspect innocent naturalists of crimes or pro- cedures that never enter into their heads, and, indeed, of which in many instances they know absolutely nothing. The text of Mr. Webster's book still requires revision ; for instance, on p. 5, the Dame of one of the tribes is given as " Phrydese," an evident but none the less annoying oversight, as it is supposed to be au extract from Hooker's " Manual" (sic), what- ever that may be. The illustrations, too, are unfor- tunately often of a piebald description, half black, half light, from imperfections in the process-blocks or in their preparation for the press. The cultural details are, in every case, worthy of careful considera- tion, and give the work its principal value, as may be judged by the following extract : — " The Orchid-bed can be formed in a shady, quiet spot, where the various qualities of soil may be p'aced in a very small area, so that different species uf similar requirements can grow in close proximity. The position and prepaiation of the bed will, however, require a little attention, and may be readily formed in any balf-shady corner (constant sunshine is inimical to the growth of several Orchids) by digging into the ordinary garden soil (which we will suppose iu most cases to be loam) a quantity of peat or leaf mould ; this being a mixture suited to the wants of most species. In planting tho tuberous or other roots, the requirements of eacli kind can, however, be readily attended to ; it may be by adding lime or chalk to those requiring a calcareous soil, pure loam or leaf-mould where necessary, Ac. Lime- stone blocks or boulders should, where obtainable, be half sunk in the bed in as natural a manner aa possible, and against the sides of which those kinds requiring a calcareous soil may be planted with tho best chance of success. When forming this low rock-work, part of the bed should be raised above the general level of tho surrounding ground, in order to meet the wants of those kinds requiring a dry soil and situation. The bod should also be carpeted with some low creeping plants, such as the Sedums, Arenarias, Campanula hederacea, Linaria alpina, or Anagallis tenella, all of which are not only ornamental, but preserve a cool moist surface by preventing the too speedy evaporation of moisture, a matter of much importance for the healthy development of the plants. When planting the tubers, these should not be placed at a greater depth than from 3 to 4 inches. A few species, notably Epipactis Iatlfolia, the Cephalantheras, and one or two others having fibrous roots, are, however, exceptions to this rule, and may with advan- tage bo placed at a depth of 0 inches iu the ground ; but for the various species of Orchis, Habenaria, Ophrys, &c, tho above specified depth should never be exceeded. Although tho majority of British Orchids are found in a somewhat stiff soil, still, in my experience of them, when brought under cultivation a fair admixture of sand is highly beneficial to most species ; indoed, I make it a rule when planting to surround the tuberous or other roots with a handful of rough grit or sand, which not only to a great extent prevents decay, but materially assists in the format tion of roots. This precaution is all the more necessary when planting imported Orchids, the roots of which have bocome damaged in transit, or through carelessness in lifting." LAYERING. The student of gardening desirous of discover- ing the origin or originator of the practice of layering, as it now exist', would doubtless have to Beek for information iu very remote ages. Nature herself Eet the example in many directions. We see it displayed liberally in Strawberries, in some Saxifrages, in various weeds, and in divers trees and shrubs. But so far as modern gar- dening is concerned, layering as a means of in- creased propagation, seems to be applied more in an artificial way than in a natural way by creating similar conditions to those produced by Nature, and deriving bimilar results. So profuse in natural layer- ing is the Strawberry, that we have no reason to seek July 2, 1898.] THE GA liDENER S ' CHE ONI CL E. for other methods of propagation. It more than serves all ordinary requirements ; yet the Strawberry does not present quite the same aspect of layering that is found in other plants that have of necessity to be artificially treated. The Strawberry stolon pro- duces a plant even before it does roots. No one probably las ever attempted, or even thought it worlh while, attempting to induce the stolons of these plants to produce other rooted plants by making incisions into these connecting-striDgs, layer- ing them into soil. Of all plants we grow in gardens, there are few on which we have to depend on layering for increase so much as the Car- nation. This is particularly true of it, because it is practically everybody's tlower. Yet, whether layering be applied to Rhododendrons or to Mag- nolias, to many similar things, as well as to trees, aud, not least, to the propagation of various Mocks for fruits, the principle is the same. Generally, it may he said that mere layering may be applied to them liberally, but no satisfactory results will happen unless the principle of tongueiDg the stems be practised. In burying stems of branches Nature often docs n.ucb, but tongueing she does not, except that the desired diversion of sap into it with the view of producing certain results may follow. Layering is not the only operation performed on plants with the object of increasing them, that naturally calls for thought and enquiry. Tho operation of cutting- making, so very common, and far more available for the purpose, though very much the same in all cases, is one that should command all the operator's intel- ligence. It is not enough to be able to do this work mechanically. It should bo the aim of all to under- stand the physiological principles that govern it. A. D. [We may indicate a few kinds of plants which a gardener may increase at this season by layering big or little shoots and branches, viz, Vines, both ornamental-lraved and fruiting ; Ivies of all kinds ; Hoses (not the monthly Roses rtadily), but especially those that make long, vigorous growths, such as the naturally climbing species and varitties ; Loniceras with climbing habit ; Rhododendrons hybridum, and the warm-house (Javan species and hybrids), the Alpine species and the more prostrate habited Himalayan species ; Weigela sinensis ; the Cotoneas- ters ; Laurels of all species audi varieties; the Ligustrums ; the n w Zealand Veronicas, Senecios Fig. 3. — stapelia longidens, grown by e. d. tillett, esq., nokwich. in a rough way, by abrasion. It is most likely that the eirliest gardeners, who first adopted artificial means to the desired end, did observe the frequent rooting which followed up -n the breaking of the bark of tr. e or shrub stems, resulting fre.m abrasion, and from itcame the practice of tongueing The principle cf this pract'ee lies in the absolute nrce s-ity there is for a break, though it be but partial, in the bark, to check the sap flow, which presumably passes through the cambium bark laytr. The tongueing of any Bti m is invaiiably done by an upward cut or slit towards the leafage, and not in the reverse way. The latter would probably prove useless. The tontue toon calluses over, snd develops roots. Vtry pretty woik, tco, is layering, not only becaufe it is light, but it requires considerable deftuefs of hand and experience in nanipulation to do it properly. Few operators, however woodin generally, but know that their labours will come to nought if the cut surfaces of the layer close up and are so buried in the soil. The cambium layer that is inevitably formed on the wound in this case becomes a species of cement, uniting the severed portions again indiBsolubly, and no rooting follows. It is therefore indispensable that in placing the layer into the soil the tongue or slip of partially-severed stem be separated from the main stem, when so inserted, and others ; bush fruits, although this method is not to be recommended, the production of under ground shoots and suckers being a gre.it nuisance ; Codlin and Burrknot Apples, and many of the climbing hard-wooded plants of the greenhouse and stove. Ed.] arket Gardening. ASPARAGUS CULTURE ABOUT LONDON. As the Asparagus season is now practically over, the following remarks may prove interesting to readers of the Hardeners' Chronicle. I think it will be admitted by all who know the market trade, that there is not half the quantity grown by the market- gardeners in the Loudon district, that was the case in the late fifties and early sixties ; neither is the pro- duce so fine now as then. Many causes have brought about this state of things, as, for ins'ance, the increase of buildings in the suburbs, notably Bromp- ton, Fulbam, Battersea, and Wandsworth, where at that period splendid market-gardens existed, with unlimited manure within easy reach. I am now refer- ring to the time when George Bagley, of Fulham, called " Gentleman Bagley," used to come and sell his own produce. He brought fine Asparagus, which he used to pack in Rhubarb leaves. All his goods were well grown and shown. Then there were three market-gardeners— the Atwoods — who used to grow Asparagus ; and there were also Grayson, Hitchcock, Pocock, aud Jessop ; the last named grower used to send very large quantities. I have seen his van loaded with bundles of Asparagus packed in the body, without any baskets being used, which I never knew any one else to do. Ho also produced very fine Onions and Parsnips— in facr, everything he grew was well dmio. Je3sop used to pack his Asparagus in meadow- gras J mown, no doubt, for the purpose ; while Hitchcock, Grayson, Pccock, and Borne others packed in Rye-grass, which is a nice clean kind of I acking, and I u'ed to think that it made the Aspa- ragus more attractive to customer;). The bundling varied slightly from that now in use, and, I think I may safely say, that all bundles contained more heads than is now the case. Now, from what I have observed and read, I believe we have among British gardeners some of the best cultivators in the world, and I wish to bear record to this fact. Although in this and previous seasons large Asparagus — Giant, Victoria, or call it what you like, from abroad has realised considerably more, sometimes double the price of home-grown, it was for the simple reasou that it was big, showing there is, with increased wealth of tho community, a growing demand for Asparagus with big heads. Now I would ask, why cannot our own growers grow the vegetable to as large a size. It must be remembered that there are not 100 heads in a bundle of this big " grass," and, moreover, it is pale in colour, and is not, I suppose, exposed to sun- shine, and may be the variety differs from that which we grow. [No ; it is a matter of climate and of feeding with sewage. Ed.] In conclusion, I feel certain if we grow it big enough, seeing what the demand now is, that we could command the trade. In the Evesham district I hear that the area under Asparagus is considerably extended, aud it is estimated there are now four thousand acres under this crop, but tho produce that I have seen is puny, Slid the market reports of the Gardeners' Chrou tele show that it fetches inferior prices. T. P., June 25, 1898. Packing Fktjit for Market. The growers in their methods of marketing fruit, we are pleased to see, are taking a step in the right direction. Strawberries are being marketed in fancy handle-baskets different to auy thing that has been Been before, and we trust they will be followed with other fruits that will allow of it throughout the season. Retaileis of fruit know how much better fruit opens up the less it is handled, and also how much more attractive it is to the would-be purchaser. We trust, therefore, that the trade generally will take to this new method, which we have advocated from the first both as regards baskets and boxes. Packing selected fruit in small quantities and in such a frua that they cm be readily handled, although rerhaps pitting the grower- to a little more trouble, is certainly more likely to bring better results all round. For this purpose there is still room for improvement in the make of both baskets aud boxes for this purpose. The handle-baskets above referred to are coming from French senders ; they are \ery light aud serviceable. It can hardly be expcctid that anything suitable will be turned out from the English basket-makers' shops, considering the stirt the foreigner ha? got upon us, but whole- salers of t liis ware, who r ay peril deal visits to tho various basket- making centres, might do much to- wards bringing about this improved metho 1 of marketing iu small quantises, even if they had basket-i made to their own design. The Journal of Oreengroceri/, Fruit, ami Flowers. STArELIA LONGIDENS. On the occasion of the publication of Mr. N. E. Brown's description of this new species in our issue for September 21, 1895, we were unable to procure a figure of the flower. We are now enabled by the kindness of Mr. Eric D. Tillett, of St. Giles' Street, Noiw;ch, to afford our readers an illustration of this singular looking plant (see fig. 3). The plant THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE, [July 2, 1? was introduced from Delagoa Bay by Mrs. Monteiro, who sent flowers to Kew, and a plant flowered with Mr. W. H. Tillett of Norwich in October, 1892. The Week's Work. KEW NOTES. Cyperus fertilis. — This is an elegant basket-plant or the warm-house, several examples of it at Kew being noteworthy. It has lately been introduced from Old Calabar, where it grows abundantly Judging by its growth at Kew, it is not a plant to introduce into a tropical country, as it might easily become a peBt. It has bright green linear-lanceolate leaves, 6 inches long, and jj-inch wide, witli a distinct keel and prominent nerves, which are coloured red at the base. Its white flower-spikes are borne on slender arching, and finally drooping stolons, which become about 2 feet long, and bear a cluster of plantlets at the end. These hang all round the plant in great profusion, ultimately dropping off, and starting on their own account. Like all sedges, this one enjoys a rich soil and plenly of water. Inoarvillea grandiflora. A plant of this new introduction from China has lately flowered in the Cape-house at Kew. It is not unlike I. Delavayi in some characters, differing in its shorter leaves, more rounded leaflets, and short scape, bearing only one or two flowers, which are, however, as large as those of I. Delavayi, whilst the calyx- lobes are much narrower, and the corolla-lobes linger ; the colour of the flowers is a rich rose-red. It is possible that I. grandiflora is only a form of I. compacta, also a native of China. For the discovery and introduction of this plant we are indebted to the expedition to Thibet and Western China by Prince Henry of Orleans in 1890. Another species of Inoarvillea, fouud at the same time, has been named I. lutea, and is described as having yellow flowers as large as those of I. Delavayi. W. W. SCHIZANTHUS. When plants of Schizanthus in variety are well grown, they make a magnificent show in the spring. Tbe varieties which I have grown are S. Grahami, S. Grahami carmiueus, S. humilis, S. pinnatus albus, S. retusus, and S. retusus albus, these being the showiest. The seed may be sown any time during the month of September in pans, in fine sandy soil, shaded, and placed in a cool frame. As soon as the plants are large enough they should be pricked off five or six in a 4X-size pot ; a 32-size pot serving for the next shift, and in this size they may be flowered, although if larger plants are required a shift into 16's may be afforded. A compost consisting of loam in a rough state, loaf-mould, and cow-dung, threo parts of tbe former and one of the latter, should be used for the final potting, and the plants should be placed in the green-house. Tbe stopping of the growths must be left to the grower's judguieot, as it will depend on the size he wishes the plants to reach, and the time they arc wanted in bloom. tTo insert three or four neat stakes placed at equal distances round the pots, and then to tie a piece of green twine at intervals round the stakes, is, for supporting the plants, the best way which I know. Copious supplies of water at the roots are required at the flowering period, and frequent applications of weak manure-water improve the colours and in- vigorate the plants, and by keeping them shaded during bright Bunshine the flowers last for a long period of time. R. N. Vegetables, DICKSON'S JUNE KING BROCCOLI, I consider this a most valuable acquisition to our supply of late Broccolis, and this year, owing to the earJiness of the season in Sussex, we have finished Late Queen and Veitch's Model Broccolis, but June King is just coming into use. The plant is dwarf, and the curd is compact and white. It is a variety that is sure to be extensively grown when better known. E. Burbury, Arundel Castle, (Hardens, May 30. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By H. Walters, Gardener to Lord Gerrard, Eastwell Park, Ashford. Rosa rur/osa alba. — This is an exceedingly pretty shrub for summer flowering, ami the habitof the plant is good. When a plant of this species is well established, progress in size is rapid from its habit of throwing up suckers or shoots from the roots. Tbe flowers are of a pure white, and if planted in quantity, especially when in proximity to the type, a very telling effect is afforded. A good soil, moderately manured, is that which suits Rosa rugosa ; if the soil be made too rich with plant food the growths become too vigorous, and on the other hand a poor soil brings about a scraggy and stunted appearance. The fruits of the type and the variety are very ornamental. General Remarks. — The rains have been beneficial to all the various kinds of plants in the flower garden. The borders of herbaceous perennials are gay with Delphiniums, Gaillardias, Lilies, Sweet Williams, Foxgloves, Pajonies, Pentetemons, Potentillas, Pyre- tbrums, Irises, and many other species of plants. Annuals in beds and borders will be fast coming into flower, as will the border Carnations. The sub- tropical garden, if not quite so dazzling to tbe eye, will soon be a source of interest to all who admire fine form in leaf and plint. And even the prim ribbon borders, where they still maintain their place, and the geometrically designed beds, with their Pelar- goniums, Calceolarias, Begonias, Lobelias, and other plants, will be a source of enjoyment to others. Roses are in this part of England on the eve of opening. The presence of all this floral beauty gives the true gardener much to do and to think about. He can have no idle moment; what with staking, tying, thinning, pruning, removing spent flowers, Sc, his hands are always full. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By W. Messenger, Gardener to C. H. Berners, Esq., Woolverstone Park, Ipswich. Salvias. — Late-struck plants of the autumn and winter-flowering varieties, if they are still in 4 and 5-inch pots, should now be put into pots in which they will remain till they flower, and for this purpose 7 or 8-inch pots are suitable, as when the roots are much restricted, growth is weak. As a compost, make use of good tibry loam, with a small portion of rotten manure, and sand in quantity sufficient to make it porous. When the roots have filled the pots, manure-water may be applied. If a plant is thin, let the points of the shoots be pinched, to induce a greater degree of bushiness. Bouvardias. — These plants, if set out in a bed of light mould over a spent hot- bed without glass over them, make good late-flowering specimens ; and they should be syringed daily when the weather is warm and dry. Any extra vigorous shoots Bhould be stopped, and if the heads are crowded with shoots, some amount of thinning - out will be required. Bouvardias standing iu their flowering-pots should be plunged outside in a warm sunny position, having been previously gradually hardened off. Late-struck plants should be pushed on rapidly, and when finally potted, they should occupy 5 or 6-inch potj. Let these last also be hardened-off, and placed outside about the middle of the month. Achimenes. — These plants now growing freely will, if growing in flower-pots, require to be staked, or they will not have a good appearance. The stakes should be of a length suitable to the variety, neat in form, and painted green. If a particular variety needs to be increased, cuttings formed of the tips of the shoots may be inserted round tbe sides of a 5 inch pot, in a light sandy soil, and kept close and warm. Plants that have filled their pots with roots may be occasionally atlbrded weak manure-water. Myrsiphyllum asparagoides (Smilax). — The last shift may now be afforded plants intended to be grown in flower-pots, and a 32 will be sufficiently largo for plants raised this year from seed. Place them so that the growths may be trained on pieces of twine, or, failing this, neat stakes may be employed to support tbe bine, a very necessary practice if the growths are used iu house or dinner-table decorations. Decorative Trailing Plants. — Batches of cuttings of Oplismenus Burmanni variegatus, Tradcscautia, and Selagiuella should be struck at this date, to take the place of those that may have become shabby-looking, most of which may be thrown to the rubbish-heap. The cuttings should be inserted thickly, and placed in a close, moist pit, shading them carefully for a time during bright weather. Stove Plnnls for Conservatory or Mouse Decoration should be carefully hardened off some days prior to their removal to the conservatory or house, as to remove stove-plants of any kind before gradually inuring them to a cooler temperature is always a cause of serious injury to them. HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. H. Divers, Gardener to the Duke of Rutland, Belvoir Castle, Grantham. Currants and Gooseberries. — Bushes which are making growth freely, will be getting so crowded with shoots that it will become imperative to thin out the latter in order to let in light and air to the fruit. But whilst attending to this matter do not shorten the leading growths, nor those required for extending the crown or filling the gaps causes by loss of branches. Bear in mind to leave sufficient foliage to aid the fullest development of the fruits. As a rule of general application, it may be stated that the weaker shoots may be cut back to the base, and the stronger ones to three leaves of full size. Black Currants should receive no summer pruning in this way, ,the fruit being borne chiefly on wood of the preceding year. Raspberries, — The whole of the young canes not should required to grow into fruit-bearers lor next year be removed. Too often the Raspberry plantation is allowed to become a mass of root-suckers, starving the main stools and impoverishing the soil, forming a harbour for the fruit-eating and other birds, and hindering the due ripening of the fruits. It is a mistake to do nothing till the fruit is gathered, as is so often the rule in gardens. If young canes for forming plantations next year or this year are required, a sufficient number must be left, and at such distances from the old stools, that their removal in the autumn or Bpring may be effected without injury to the latter. Outdoor Vines. — These plants need frequent atten- tion in the matter of securing the leaders to the wall, the removal of every weak or useless shoot, and the stopping of others at two joints beyond a bunch. If new rods are going to be laid-in in place of old ones, theBo should now be selected and trained at full length on a sunny, bare part of the wall. The side- growths coming from these young canes may be stopped at the first joint. Mildew in out-door Vines is often brought about by the dryness and im- poverishment of the soil of the border, and it is a prudent course to afford water and diluted liquid-manure during the summer ; and a dressing of Vine-manure is beneficial if afforded after the fruit is set. This applies more particularly to Vines iu confined borders. Vines with unrestricted root-runs can scarcely be helped iu this manner, their roots beiug as a rule far from home. Plums. — If the trees of Denyer's Victoria and Rivers' Prolific planted against walls are too abundantly cropped, some rather severe thinning should be done, otherwise the fruit will be small in size, and lacking in flavour. Moreover, timely thinning favours the production of a fruit-crop the following season. The green fruits that are pulled off are of use in the kitchen, and need not be thrown away. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford, Dorking. Acrides japonica and Promenoza citrina are now flowering in the cool-house ; these are two rarely- seen species of Orchids worth adding to any collection. The flower-spikes of the Aorides droop gracefully, and the blossoms possess a delicate fragrance. The plant should b9 grown in a small pan or basket, and have only crocks and sphagnum-moss in which to root. The Promenwa being of dwarf growth should also be cultivated similarly. During the summer let both plants be hung in a Bhady part of the cjol-house, in winter removing them to a cool position in the inter- mediate-house, and keeping them always moist at the root. Odontoglossum House. — At this season a few of the plants in this house will require repotting or re-sur- facing, the more important of these being Maxillaria Sanderiana, M. Hiibschi, M. Amesiana, II . pnestans, M. Augusta Victoria, and M. striata grandiflora. These varieties are the better for being cultivated in baskets, for the reason that thi flower-spikes frequently push forth iu a downward direction, similar to Stanhopea and Acineta. M. grandiflora. M. fucata, M. Harris- sonise, M. Houtteana, M. lepid"ta, M. luteo-alba, July 2, 1S9S. THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. M. nigrescens, M. picln, M. tenuifolia, M. venusta, M. nieleagris, M. scmrilis, M. Lindeni, M. fracti- flexa, M. mirabilis, M. pirrecta, and M. eleg .n- tula, may be cultivated successfully in au ordinary flower-pot. Maxillarias make plenty of root9 and grow freely in a compost that consists of $ sphagnum- moss, I peat, and a moderate quantity of cleau crocks. Let the pot be filled up to two thirds of its depth with drainage materia), and on this place the plant. After repotting apply water cautiously till roots push forth fret ly, when more may be afforded till the new growths are mature. All of the Maxil- larias enumerated succeed when placed at the warmest part of the cool-house and afforded plenty of light, but not direct sunlight at any time. Oncidiums. — The species O. tigrinum, 0. dichro- mum, 0. excavatum (aureum), 0. obryzatum, O. omithorhyneum, and 0. sessile, may likewise require fresh material in some instances. Plauts of 0. super- bieus and 0. loxense now in flower should be kept moist at the root till the flower - spikes are cut, and then the quantity of water should be reduced, which will have the effect of inducing the plants to rest, which they may be allowed to do for a short time. They will break all the stronger for such rest. Oalanthe Veitchi, C. bella, C. Burfordiense, C. Victoria Regina, and the vestita section generally, now growing vigorously and getting well rooted, should be afforded plenty of light, heat, and moisture, aud occasionally weak cow-stall draiuings. It is at this season that the plants should be examined occasionally, and where numbers of roots show on the Burface of the compost, a thin layer of lumpy, fibrous-loam should be placed lightly over them, into which the roots quickly find their way, to the advantage of the plant. Keep the plants con- veniently near the roof, and afford a humid atmos- phere at alltimes, but avoid letting water lodge in the ceLtres of the growths or axils of the leaves. Eulophia gaineemi) (amgoensis) and the pretty Geodorum Augusti require the same kiud of treatment as the Calanthes. Ca/asctu>n and Oycnoches, now growing rapidly, should be afforded strong heat and a clear light at this season, and the best position for the plants will be found on the south-side of the East Indian-house, suspended close to the roof, with their foliage almost touching it. Afford water plentifully at the root till the new pseudo-bulbs are fully matured, ami the leaves fallen. The flower-spikes generally appear just before the pseudo-bulbs are fully developed. Habenaria rhodochila. — Plants that have ceased to flower may be placed in a light position near the roof in order to ripen the tubers. Habenaria militaris, H. Susanna?, H. carnea, and i's variety nivosa, if now growing freely will require much root moisture till the flowers show, and afterwards a less quantity will suffice. Watch the plants carefully for insects, or the beautiful foliage will soon become disfigured. Miscellaneous. — Plants of Platyclinis glumacea may be removed from the East Indian-house to a cool intermediate-house, and growth being now finished less water is needed at the root. The leaves of the plants should be frequently syringed in order to keep them free from insects. P. uneata and P. Cobbiana will require the same kind of treatment till growth recommences. P. tiliformis is fast sending up its thread-like flower-stems, and the plant will benefit from a daily over-head syringiDg till such time as the flowers open. This pretty species thrives best in the intermediate-house the whole year round. All of the Thunias should, ?s they go out of bloom, be placed in a less warm temperatrre by a few degrees than that of the East Indian-house, and where they may be gradually iuured to the full light. They will require to be afforded water till the leaves begin to change to a yellow hue. from which time water should be with- held by degrees, and after the leaves have fallen not any water should be afforded. When at rest, place in a dry position, where the iemperature does not fall below 55°. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By. I. W. McHattie, Gardener to the Duke of Wellington, Strathfieldsaye, Hants. The Late-Bearing Peas. — The sowings of these varietcs require a cool, deep soil, and an open sunny position. The round-seeded, early Peas not being so liable to attacks of mildew as the Marrowfats should he the ones sown. Let narrow trenches be prepared as for a row of Celery, or sow in well-trenched ground not recently manured with nitrogenous farmyard- dung. An endeavour should be made to keep the plants vigorous and green by frequent applications "of water in the dry weather, and dressings of artificial manure rich in potash. Canl.ijlowers.-~ Those plauts that were raised from seeds in May, and pricked out in nurse beds, will now be fit to plant out. They wilt form the latest supply of heads, and should be planted on a sunny open piece of ground in rows 18 iuches apart, 12 inches betweeu the plants, as they will not attain to the size of the earlier sowings. Plant with a trowel and make the soil firm about the ball, afford- ing water in dry weather, keeping the soil stirred, and moulding up the stems when the plants are about 1 foot high, and generally following the direc- tions given in earlier calendars. Celery. — In some parts of the country it will have been necessary to afford water to the Celery- plauts in the trenches, and as doing this causes the surface to cake, the hand-fork or hoe should bo used to break it up slightly. And before proceeding to set out Celery, it is good practice to loosen the soil in the trenchjes in the same manner. The main Celery crop should now be planted in trenches at 9 inches apart ; or if double rows are planted in a trench, they should stand at 12 inches by 9 inches. Assuming the plants were pricked out on nurse- beds, they should bo lifted aud planted with a trowol, so as not to damage the roots more than can be helped. And as regards the time to plant, a dull day following rain is the most suitable. Some gar- deners sow thinly, and do not transplant, but lift the plants with a fork, trim the roots, and top the plants somewhat. Brussels Sprouts, Savoys, and Borecole. — Advan- tage should be taken of showery weather to make good any vacancies in the beds and plantations, and to plant out the required numbers of the above. Vegetable- Marroio and Cucumbers. — The early plants are now iu bearing, and the bine will require regu'ating aud thinning at short intervals of time, placing it regularly and evenly over the beds, pegging it down so as to keep it in place, and cause rootiDg at the points where it touches the soil, which will all add to the strength and vigour of the plants. The same rule holds good for plants of the pickling Cucumber. Afford each a frequent dewing over on hot afternoons with a syringe or a watering-pot. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By G. Norman, Gardener to the Marquess of Salisbury, Hatfield House, Herts. The Strawberry. — Continuing my remarks of last week on this subject, I would advise the gardener to determine the varieties he will force next season, and the number of each. Some varieties do better in some gardens than others when forced early, that is, for putting into the forcing-house in November and December. At Hatfield, that good Strawberry for early forcing, Vicomtesse H. du Thury, and also La Grosse Sucree, are the best, and even for keeping up the supply till fruits are ripe out-of-doors. Other trustworthy varieties are Royal Sovereign, Sir Charles Napier, President, and British Queen. If one variety only is required, choose Royal Sovereign. The Strawberry is subject to inrestation by mildew, which, should it appear on the old plants, from whichrunners are being taken for pottinsr, it will spread to the young plants, checking growth very much. As a remedy, dis- solve flowers-of-sulphur in water till it forms a thin paste, and then mix it with water at the rate of half- a pint to two gallons of water. With this mixture let the plants be syringed from both sides of the row, do:ng this in fine weather. More than one application may be needed before the rooted runners are severed from the mother plants. Melons.— The plan's raised from seeds sown about a month ago Ehould now be planted ; and if a Melon- house is at command, and such a structure is always beBt for bringing a late crop of Melons to perfec- tion, it should be thoroughly cleaned, and every- thing chared out of it that is likely to breed fungus or afford a harbour for insect". Melon plants do not need more than 8 inches of soil, and this may be put on a hard floor overlying the water-pipes. For earlier fruiting plants, if the construction of the house will admit of it, a quantity of prepared stable- litter and tree-leaves is an advantage as a means of affording bottom-heat, is a saving of labour, and produces better flavoured fruit ; moreover, a more shallow ted of soil is required. The best kiud of soil for Melons is a stiff pasture loam one year iu stack, which should be trodden or rammed fii m when put on the bed. Let it get well warmed before the plants are put out. In pits where the Melon -plants are in flower, let the air be maintained of an uniform degree of warmth of 68° to 70° by night, and 80° to 85° by day, with a bottom-heat of 80°. By keeping a high day temperature, the plants can be afforded freer ventilation at the setting time. At this particular period the plants should not be syringed overhead, but the moisture necessary to healthy growth in the plants can be afforded by damping the walls aud bare parts of the Melon-bod. Plants in other stage? of growth, whilst cool weather lasts, should be less frequently syringed. Melons grown in frames should be carefully looked after as regards the Btopping of the Bhoots and fertilisation of the blossoms. Cucumbers. — Let the spent bine and the older leaves be removed in small quantities from time to time, laying in new bine and pinching the points of laterals. If many roots appear at the surface, afford a 2 inch layer of soil and horse-manure. If winter Cucumbers are grown, a sowing of seed should now be made, in order to have plants for putting out in another structure, while the winter plants are coming into bearing. Cucumbers in frames require much the same kind of treatment as those in houses. The frames should be shut up early in the afternoon. Tomatos. — When the stem reaches its limit, nip out the point and all the side-shoots, and keep them nipped off. Plants bearing a full crop of fruit may be afforded a dressing of loamy soil, mixed with old plaster, &c, euriched with an artificial manure. Plants for winter-cropping should be potted-off, and afterwards shaded from bright sunshine for a week or ten days. THE APIARY. By Expert. Affording Honey Storing-spucc. — The first indication of bees needing room for honey-storing is when the top portions of the combs in the body-box become extended, as may be seen by the lighter colour of the wax employed by the bees in lengthening out the cells. This is an unfailing sign that honey is coming in, and that increased space must be afforded witkout delay. The ability to produce honey in quantity aud in good form bespeaks the skilful bee-man, and such a one takes time by the forelock — has his supers ready to put on at a moment's notice, and no matter how long the inflow lasts, he is prepared for it. In fact, the loss of a couple of days may mean the loss of cwts. of honey, even in a moderate-sized apiary. In the year 1893 the inflow set in during the last week of May, at the rate of 0 lb. per hive per day. It, therefore, does not take much adding up to see what the loss to a bee-keeper owning a couple of score of colonies means at such a time. Supers were filled and ready for romoval in three days, and unless others had been ready to take their places, see what the loss would have been. This happy condition may be our lot in 1898, and we should at any rate keep wide awake as to possibilities. We may be dis- appointed, but, bearing in mind that supers are not perishable, the worst that can happen is having to put them carefully away for another year. Remember the adage, "Store is no sore," and it is better to have stores and not need them than to need and be unable to get them. Having then decided what kiud of surplus we intend to work for, let us prepare supers accordingly. If for extracted honey, fit the shallow frames with thin brood foundation. If for sections get the same fitted with full sheets of thin super foundation. To get bees to work well and quickly in surplus chambers — whether of shallow frames t>r sections— the main point is to prevent them from storing to any great extent in the brood-chamber. This latter should be reserved for the use of the queen, the main harvest being as nearly as possible all carried into the upper chambers. Any second crop may with advantage be left to go into the brood-chamber for winter stores. The natural position for stores intended for bee-food is above the brood, and with a little management the lower chamber can be filled with brood all through this month, after which time all stores must necessarily go into the chambers above. Under no circum6tauces should we allow the surplus to go below to the exclusion of brood, if we do that, there is little hope of remedying the defect before the honey flow is over. The immediate object to work for now is a strong stock of bees, aud the whole body-box filled with brood; this object secured, tho principal harvest will be stored in our supers. Wrap all supers up warmly, and see that they fit close down upon the brood-chamber. When the first super is three-parts filled, add another below, this leaves an empty space, and bees abhor a vacuum when honey is plentiful, and will at once set to work to fill it. A space between brood and stores tends to prevent swarming, and offers the bees an inducement t" work harder than before. 10 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 2, 1898. EDITORIAL NOTICES. ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER. Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR, 41, Welling- ton Street, Covent Garden, London. Communications Should be WRITTEN ON ONE SIDE ONLY OF THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly signed by the writer. If desired, the signature will not be printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor does not under- take to pay for any contributions, or to return unused com- munications or illustrations, unless by special arrangement Local News.— Correspondents will greatly oblige by sending to the Editor early intelligence of local events likely to le of interest to our readers, or of any matters which it is desirable to bring under the notice of horticulturists. Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and select photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction of gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, dc; but hecannot be responsible for loss or injury. Newspapers.— Correspondents sending newspapers should le careful to mark the paragraphs they wish the Editor to see. APPOINTMENTS FOR JULY. „ | National Rose Exhibition at the ( Crystal Palace. f j Rose and Horticultural Shows at J 1^ Hereford, Diss, and Harrow. /'County Borough of Hanley (Staffs) I Horticultural Fete (2 days). I Rose and Horticultural Shows at 6-' Farningham. Newton Stewart, I Tuubridge Wells, Enfield, Red- hill (Rebate), Chelmsford, Eal- \ ing, and Hitcbin. 1— Rose Show at Wondbridge, Suffolk. 8— Ulverston Rose Show. Manchester Royal Botanic Society- Rose Show. Wood Green and District Horti- cultural Society, Show. Royal Botanic Society, General Meeting. National Amateiu Gardening Asso- ciation, at Regent's Park. / Royal Horticultural Society's Coro- , I mittees. i Wolverhampton Bortieultural { Show (3 daye). Durham, Northumberland, and Neweastle-on Tyne Horticultural Show, at Newcastle (Deputation from the Royal Horticultural Society,). Rose and Horticultural Shows at Nottingham (2 days), Bedford, Maidstone, and Ipswich. National Rose Sccioty'a Show at Halifax. Jertcy Gardeners' Floral Fete. Floral Fete (Hospital) at Canter- bury. Rose and Hoiticultural Shows at Salterhebble, Reading, and Brentwood. (New Brighton Rose and Horticul- i tural Show. I Cardiff Horticultural Society's Show (2 days). National Cai nation and Picotee Society's Show at the Crystal Pa' ace. — Sidcup Rose Show. ( Royal Botan'o Society, General I Meeting. i Redhill Carnation and Picotee So- l. ciety's Show. , Royal Horticultural Society's Com- I ruittees. I TibsLelf Rose and Horticultural [ Show. | Beckenham Horticultural Society, I Show. | Brightstone {Isle of Wight) Horti- I cultural Show. SATURDAY, July TUESDAY, July WEDNESDAY, July THURSDAY, July FRIDAY, July SATURDAY, July TUESDAY, .1 WEDNF.5PAY, Jriv 13 TDUiliDAY, Jim II SATURDAY, July 10 WEDNESDAY, July 20 TJURSDAY, July SI SATURDAY, July % TUE-DAY, July k WEDNESDAY, July TUU.iSDAY, ■28/ Bcdale Rcfb Show. and Horticultural SALES FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. Til K-SDVY, 1R1DVY, i Freehold Buildinn Land at MaM' n, Essex, by Protheroe & Morris. T efOrchidB and Palm-seeds, at Pro- j lily 8 ^ theroe & Mortis' Rooms. Av :race Temferatube for the ensuing week, deduced from I ibservations of Forty-three Y'cars, at Chiswiek.— 631' . A itual Temperatures: — London.— /iww 20 (6 p.m.) : Max., 74°: Min., 59°. Provinces. — June 29 (6 p.m.) : Max., 68°, Shields ; Min., .rJt;°, Sumburgh Head. Dull ; showery. The Royal When referring, on p. 360 of Horticultural our last volume, to the recently- 80ClesthowFrUU is8ued schedule of tha SeP" tember fruit show, we omitted to note an important regulation that appears upon one end of the entry forms, to the effect that the practice of advertising with what manure the fruit has been grown is pro- hibited. The Eoyal Horticultural Society has in many instances of late introduced very neces- sary improvements in connection with horti- cultural exhibitions, and though the present modification may be considered a small matter, it is by no means unimportant. Horticultural shows should be made pretty and attractive as possible, and as much by the elimination of unnecessary features that tend to mar the beauty of the display as by the introduction of novel and gratifying effects. Those of us who are in the habit of visiting the exhibitions for the purpose of inspecting the plants and flowers to be found there, are only too sensible of the untasteful prominence given to advertisement cards. But of these the greatest objection is taken to the cards placed in very close proximity to first-prize collec- tions, and suggesting, and sometimes actually asserting, that the produce has been grown by the aid of this or that manure. We need not discuss whether these are placed in such positions by the exhibitors themselves, or by their permission e veo . It is a fact that they are generally distributed subsequent to the prizes being awarded, and the visitor will seldom see one attached to other than a first-prize exhibit. Without asserting that in many cases the exhibits may nevtr have been given any of the particular manure so closely associated with them during their exhibition period, this much is quite certain, that the manure has played a secondary pait in the production of the flowers, fruits, or vegetables. Is not the first piize in a competition a primary testimony to the skill of the cultivator 't His attention to details, his knowledge of the plant's requirements, and his doing of necessary work at the proper time, all these are the chief factors ia the successful cultiva- tion of any plant, and were such a cultivator to substitute Mr. So-and-So's artificial manure for Mr. Somebody-else's preparation, the result would most likely be similar. Gardeners under- stand this, but the "man in the street," the large number of unprofessional cultivators who attend the shows, may be misled. It is, therefore, most gratifying to note that the Royal Horticultural Sjciety has decided that such practices in future will not be per- mitted at their fruit show. Certain other societies who aro ever ambitious of acquiring a respectable reputation, would find it to their advantage to adopt a similar course in the matter. We may add, also, that we have no sym- pathy with the custom of displaying cards advertising the fact that certain exhibits havo resulted from the employment of seeds from a particular establishment. As in the other case, the credit is usually wholly due to the cultivator, who would not be likely to make use of infeiior soeds. ESCALLONIA LANGLEYENSIS X (6g. 4, p. 11).— This is a hybrid raised by Mr. Seden, at Messrs. Veitcu's Nursery at Langley, between E. macrantha, which has relatively large pink flowers, and B. Philippiana (Gardeners' Chronicle, July 12, 1873, p. 947, descript. ; and July 27, 1878, fig. 13), which has a profusion of small white flowers. The leaves of the hybrid are subsessile, linear, oblong, tapering to both ends, aud finely glandula serrate ; the flowers are liko those of E. Philippiana, but in colour a r sy-pink. Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institu TION. — Mr. C. J. Ingram, secretary, desires us to inform our readers that the amount colli cted by Mr. J. Jaques for the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution was £14 6s., nut £7 10?., ss stated. MRS. WOODMAN. — We are glad to hear from Mr. Natper, whose devotion to his former employer is most touching, that Mrs. Woodman has been elected a pensioner of the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institution. It is pleasing to learn that the notices in the horticultural journals wero important factors in producing this result. Gardeners' Investments.— It was stated by the Treasurer at the recent dinner of the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution that in one instance to which he referred, a gardener had subscribed sixteen years before he became a pensioner in 1866. He died in 1875, when the widow succeeded to the pen- sion. Thus the husband received £1-14 from the Institution, and the widow £314, making a total of £45S received for an expenditure of £15 15s. ! Gardeners' Wages.— That these are often of the lowest amount, and utterly inadequate, we all know, but such low wages are not universal, or even general among the tenor twelve thousand men whose names occur in the garden jear-boolis ; and do not account for the painful want of proportion between those in receipt of adequate salaiies and those who are contributors to the gardening charities. Gardeners' Charities.— It is humiliating to have to beg in face of the 6gures which have been recently published to tbo iff ct that there are only 300 practical gardeners who contribute the annual mite required by the Orphan Fund, and of these only thirteen come from Scotland, in spite of the fact that eight of the children come from that country ! How many bond fide gardeners in good places sub- scribe to the Gardeners' Benevolent? Flower on Tendril of Passionflower. — " Oak field " obliges us with an interesting speci- men of a flower produc. d on the tendiil of a Passion- flower. Botanists have always been of opinion that the tendiils were modified flower-stalks, and the specimen sent by "Oakfield" confirms this in the most nterestiog manner. A Royal Visit to Moortebeek. — On Tbms- day, June 23, the King of the Belgians paid a visit to this well-known Orchid establishment, situated in the neighbourhood of Brussels. Under the guidance of Mr. Lucien Linden, the King inspected for several hours the various houses and their treasures, and repeatedly expressed the deep interest he takes in horticulture, which plays such an important part in tbo industry of the country. His Majesty also com- plimented Mr. L.UC1EN Linden on the model estab- lishment he has erected, and continues to maintain in such a highly efficient manner. LYONS. — The programmo of the International Horticultural Exhibition to be held at Lyons from September 1 to 4, may bo had on application to M. Antoine Rivoihe, the President of the Committee, 16, Rue d'Alg<5rie, Lyons. It is expected that Lyons will be the meeting place of all those distinguished in horticulture. CAMPANULATE FOXGLOVES.— Several corre- spondents have favoured us with specimens this week. For eoluc reason or other, the axis becomes arrested in its growth, and several of the topmost flowers run together and form a cup. The inner parts of the flower are generally more or less deformed, and no two are exactly alike. No. 3001. — This week we commence another millenary, so far as the weekly i-sue is concerned. Last week's number was the three thousandth weekly issue, and concluded the twenty-third volume of the third series. We are happy to state that the circulation is more than double what it was when we were younger ! July 2. 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 11 Conference at Florence on Early and Delayed Maturityin Plants.— We lave received from the President of the Georgofili, or Royal Academy of Economy and Agriculture, paiticuhus of cultivated at lower latitude aud at a lower altitude than those of the localities whence they wore taken. Herbaceous plants, such as Wheat and other autumn- winter cereals ripon, on the contrary, later if the seed Fig. 4. — ksoallonia langleyensis: flowers pink. hort. veitch. (see p. 10.) a Congress lo be held next year at Florence to con- bider ihe subject of advanced or delayed inatuiity in certain pl?nti under varying conditions. Thus, some fruits, the Vine among others, ripen earlier when comes from a locality higher both as to latitude and altitude. It sometimes occurs that certain varieties of foreign Wheats from France, England and Germany ripen later than local Italian varieties, when cultivated under the same conditions of time aud situation. On the contrary, different varieties from our country, Rieti Wheat, and red and white winter Wheat, are, in comparison, several days in advance of local varieties when cultivated in regions situated at an altitude higher than that of their original habitat ; also, these varieties are renowned and sought after either in the north of Italy or in France, thanks to their early maturity, which renders them lees subject to diseases, and especially to the attacks of rust. This differ- ence in the vegetatiou of woody and herbaceous plants offers a problem not yet i atisfactorily solved, based on the study of vegetable physiology and field meteorology ; therefore, the Academy has offered a prize for a paper detailing the results of studies and experiments explanatory of the precocious or belated developmt nt of certain organs of field-crops when these are cultivated in localities where latitude and altitude difft r from those of their original habitat." Th" competition is to be international ; a Diploma with a Silver Medal, and a prize of 1200f. = £48, are offered to the author of the best monograph on the Bubject proposed. Papers are to be written in Italian or French, and must be sent in to the Academy by June SO, 1900, and the award will be announced at the chief public meeting of the Academic year, 1900. The Secretary of the Academy is Signor A. Fran- ohetti, Florence. Literature of Fungous Diseases.— Mr. W. C. Stdp.gis contributes to the Twenty- first Annual Report of the Connecticut Agricultural Station (New Haven, Conn.), a valuable list of the publications relating to plant diseases, issued by the U. S. Department ot Agriculture and the several ex- periment stations during tbe teu years, 1887-1897, inclusive. The list will be so valuable that we may express the hope that it will be circulated separately. The author has adopted popular Dames where they are not misleading, and has endeavoured to sys- tematise them thup, black-knot, black-rot, rust, leaf- blight, leaf-spot, stem-rot, mildew, leaf-scab. Rosarian Society's Exhibition at Lyons. — We have r. ceived intimation concerning the second Conference of the French Society of Rosarians, which will be held at Lyons on September 2 and 3, on the occasion of the Cone urs Regional and the Horticul- tural Exhibition. Tbe following subjects are pro- posed by the Society for discussion : — 1st. The Clas- si6cition of Roses ; 2nd. Different Stocks and their Value ; 3rd. Diseases of Roses, and Remedies to be applied ; 4ih. Synonymy in Roses ; 5tb. Forcing Roses, and the best Varieties for Forcing ; 6tb. The best Varieties of Roses for Cut Flowers : 7th. The Pruning of Roses ; 8th. Use of different Manures in Rose-culture. Those who desiie to deal with one or more of these questions, should send in their papers to the Secretary (M. Octave Meyran) before August 15. The Exhibition at Lyons promises to be the most successful hitbeito held, and pro- mise of support is already assured from many hoiticultural and amateur growers. A Fern-Frond Screen.— We have received from Mr. H. T. Mabtin, particulars of a four-fold screen 4 feet high, the leaves of which are ornamented on both sides with dried Fern-fronds. This style of decoration requires considerable time and patience to execute neatly, and our correspondent has evidently taken great pains with his work. The special interest attaching to this screen lies in the fact that the eighty pieces of different exotic Ferns and Mosses stuck upon it were grown or collected by Mr. Martin himself, and thus the charm of association is for him added to that of mere beauty of form and arrangement. VIOLETS. — Mr. A. L. Winton gives the following details relating to Violets : — One thousand plants contained in pounds, 257 lb. of water, 52 of organic and volatile matters, 7 of other mineral matter = 316. Of nitrogen, the quantity works out at 1"5 ; potash, 1*74 ; soda, -55 ; lime, -62 ; magnesia, '25 ; phosphoric acid, '37 ; sulphuric acid, '32 ; chlorine •27 ; other matters, 276 = 6'88. 12 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE, [July 2, 1898. Home Correspondence. THE GARDENING CHARITIES.— In your issue for June 18, jour correspondent, Thomas Fletcher, commences his letter with a reference, as I suppose, to the Gardeners' Orphan Fund. He then proceeds to arraign the various insurance companies, calling into question their expenditure and general utility, and finally coocludes by referring, as I imagine, to the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution. It is in connection with this last-named charity that I venture to trespass on your space with a few brief remarks. When speaking at the festival dinner in aid of the funds of this institution on the Sth inst., I mentioned that it seemed to me that criticism in the horticultural press had worn itself out, but it seems I was mistaken ; it has very little ground to stand upon if it endeavours to still sustain the fallacy that the gardeners who subscribe have no advantages over those who do not do so, the last remnant of which had been swept away, mainly owing to the splendid idea of Mr. Harry J. Veitch, the originator of the " Victorian Era Fund," established last year to commemorate Her Majesty's Diamond Jubilee, and which is devoted exclusively to the benefit of unsuccessful candidates, who have been subscribers, or the widows of sub- scribers. As soon, therefore, as a candidate, who has been a subscriber, or the widow of a subscriber, has satisfied the cnmnittee that he or she is a necessitous, deserving, and eligible person for a pension, such candidate is certain to be either elected a pensioner, or to receive benefit from this fund in proportion to the number of years of subscription. Tbis is at ouce conclusive evidence of the advantages to subscribing gardeners should they unfortunately need assistance in their old age and time of need. Mr. Thomas Fletcher says that the "principle'' on which the gardening charities are carried out is utterly wrong, but I fear he knows nothing of the " principle " of the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution, at any rate, or of the Gardeners' Orphan Fund for the matter of that. Perhaps he will be sur- prised to leirn that the former institution pays out to gardeners in pensions aggregately nearly five times as much as it receives from gardeners, although I am delighted to know that the gardeners who are making themselves acquainted with the institution and its work, are numberiug themselves amongst its subscribers, and are doing all they can to further its progress and enlarge its usefulness. Besides which, out of thirty-six members of its Committee of Management, twelve are practical gardeners who may be supposed to have some kuowledge at last of the " principle" which govern its operations, and I rejoice to know that these with many of their fellows, are doiog their level best to support an Institution which is helping 16S poor old people to end their days in comparative comfort and without anxiety, as well as others notyet elected. I cannot think, therefore, that your correspondent voices tbe opinions of the majority of the gardeners, who in regard to the Institution could have no ground of complaint as to the benefits to ba derived from its funds in cases of necessity and misfortune ; and it must be borne in mind that four-fifths of its income are derived from the generous members of the nursery, feed, and allied trades as well as the benevo- lent public who take an interest in gardening, and who contribute, not for their own benefit, but for that of the gardener and his widow in their declining years. No public man of unimpeachable honesty and integrity ever fears criticism, neither does a well- managed institution, but in justice to a charity like the Gardeners' Royal Benevo'ent Institution which has existed sixty years, your critic should first thoroughly acquaint himself with the " principle '* on which it is canied out before he makes the assertion that it is " utterly nrong." George Monro, Covent Garden Miirket. A WASH AND BRUSH - UP AT SHOWS— Now tl at the various horticultural societies are making their show arrangements, and in connection witli your correspondent's suggestion for the earlier closing on the last day, I should like to suggest another boon for exhibit' rs. Would it not be possible for the larger societies to provide a small tent where a wash and brush-up could be obtained at a small charge ? We are often so pre sed for time after staging, as to be unable to get to our hotel and back before tbe show opens ; and I feel sure that such accommoda- tion would be greatly appreciated by exhibitors generally, including Ernest J. Davis. [May we suggest that a supply of clea n towels is a great want at tbe Drill Hall. Ed.] PRIMULA TRAILII. — It is gratifying to find Mr. G. F. Wilson acknowledging that this supposed new species is simply P. involucrata under a new name. The result fully justifies the position tafeen by a small minority of the Floral Committee who objected to the creation of a new species upon such exceedingly vague information, and who also contended that Mr. Wil- son's Primula was simply P. involucrata. What the Floral Committee, who are responsible for the new name, will be disposed to do in the matter, I cannot say, but I should think their obvious course is to withdraw both the name and the award. It may be a reproduction of Captain Munro's form of P. invo- lucrata, wh'ch in all probability has become lost, for notwithstanding I have obtained this Primula under the names of involucrataand Munroi, I have always been unable to detect any difference between them. R. Dean. LEAFAGE OF THE ASH-TREE IN THE NORTH.— The Ash and the Walnut mostly briog up the roar among our deciduous trees. I noticed, however, yesterday (June 20), several Ash-trees iu fair and full leafage iu and around Edinburgh. Considering tbe" handsome appearance of the Ash in all its stages, flowering, foliage, and keys or seeds, it is surprising it is so little planted, either for use or ornament. In parks or pleasure-grounds we often find twenty, thirty, fifty Elms for one Ash. Even the lateness of its leafage should be a merit in many positions. For while Limes and Sycamores are approaching the sere and yellow leaf, the Ash clothes itself with its long robes of drooping green, very distinct and beautiful, whether at rest or in motion. D. T. F. MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF ENGLAND ORCHID SOCIETY AND ITS AWARDS. — For an ordinary individual to attempt to criticise such an august assembly may appear somewhat presumptuous, but as a clrse observer of all reports relative t o tueir meetings, and a conscientious well-wisher for the success of such a society, it is to be hoped that my remarks may be received in the spirit in which they are written. In the Gardeners' Chronicle of June 25, reporting the last meeting of the above Society, I note a First-class Certificate was awarded to a Zygopetalum " species." Had this particular plan t been given a varietal name, no exception theoretically could have been raised ; but I venture to ask, what is to prevent this very same plant being agaiu exhibited by its present or ultimate owner, as Zygopetalum soand-so, and awarded again a First-class Certificate, or the lesser Award ? The committee could not technically say that Zygopetalurn so-and-so had been previously recognised. The height of ambition in an Orchid connoisseur is to receive a First-class Certi6cate for any of his pets ; and I respectfully contend that no plant should receive this much-coveted Award from any deliberating body, excepting it is properly desig- nated and recorded, so that there is no possible chance of throwing away the distinction F.C.C. Catlleya Mossiao Rappartiaua was also favoured with F.C C. How many more times ? This is the second, if not the third, time the Society has so honoured it. Does not the sole value of such an honour lie in its uniqueness? and which in "ye old times" was con- sidered by the possessor to be valuable, and with pride he looked forward to the increasing value of his plant. Alas ! how things are changing, when on each consecutive season resemblances to a variety crop up, and they are in turn given honours equal in value to the typical and original. Trie Society presumably is wealthy, and why should it not, therefore, appoint a salaried secretary, one who is conversant with Orchids, experienced as a cul- tivator of them, who should as-ist the committee in making their awards by having matters pertinent to the exhibit in readiness for the meeting? Whatever is done, it is not advisable purposely to iucrease the difficulties of Orchid nomenclature by making indiscriminate awards. /. 1. THE STRAWBERRY-CROP.— How late good ripe Strawberries are in coming into the market ! Pract ical iy there are, or will be, few up to the end of June. Commonly wo have had them abundant by the middle of the month. I hear from the Swanley district that the fruits swell very slowly. I observed in ono huge breadth just opposite Mr. Cannell's residence, that so late as Juue 21, strawing was then proceeding, the variety being Sir J. Paxton. Curiously enough, too, the oat-straw used was imported. Does that indicate that the war has eent up the price of straw as we] las of corn? The bloom every whe re indicated a very heavy crop. Those gardeners who kept a good stock of plants in pots late, must have found them to be most valuable in helping to fill up that void created by the delay of out-door fruits to ripen. The showers now failing may help the plautsaud fruits materially, but thoy are accompanied by cold winds, and if continued may conduce to mildew rather than to colour. A. D. THE NATIONAL DAHLIA SOCIETY. — Permit me to correct a Bmall error found in one of your answers to correspondents at p. 400 in previous issue, relating to this society. The secretary (honorary) now is Mr. J. F. Hudson, M.A., son of Mr. James Hudson, of Gunnersbury House Gar- dens, to which address all communications to Mr. J. F. Hudson should be sent. Mr. Girdlestone is now the President. Mr. Hudson, whilst actively engaged in academic work at Oxford, finds particular enjoy- mont in carrying out the duties of secretary during his periods of vacation, and is also an attached admirer of the Dahlia. The society is very fortunate in its officers and committee, aB well as in its place for shows, as all are devoid of those unpleasant amenities which have of late made another society unfortunately notorious. Long may the National Dahlia Society and its beautiful Crystal Palace Show iu September continue to enjoy those appropriate and refining associations which are making them so popular in the community. A. D. THE COLD SNAP.— On June 15 at Newton Hall, Rillington, Yorkshire, our thermometer, standing at 3 feet from the ground, registered 7° of frost, and Royal Ashleaf Potatos were badly injured in some parts of the garden, whilst others had not a leaf blackened. May Duke Cherries were badly injured on the exposed side of the fruit, as were late Straw- berry blooms, but happily the bulk of the fruit was set, and is now safe. James Elworthy. VITALITY OF HEVEA-SEEDS.— The several species of Hevea known to yield commercial caoutchouc are natives of Brazil and Guiana. Their seeds are now in great demand, but there appears to be some difficulty in obtaining them fresh. Soma of the seeds received here are too old to grow, haviug, probably, laid under the trees for months before they were collected. If the seeds are collected as th»y fall from the trees, and packed dry in wooden boxes, they will retain their vitality for several months. They have been sent to Kew from Guiana, Trinidad, and Ceylon in bags or small wooden boxes, and nearly every seed thus sent has germinated. Last year a consignment of seeds reached Kew in a partially germinated con- dition owing to their having been packed in moist soil. They were accordingly planted thickly in boxes, and when about a foot high, the boxes were fixed inside Wardian - cases, mil despatched on long journeys with Euccess. A large importer of these seeds found it a good plau to sow them in boxes, and when the seedings were a foot high to cut them down to about I) inches : this treatment made them sturdy and better able to support a long sea-voyage ; it also reduced the space they needed, flat-topped, shallow boxes w ith glass lids sufficing for them. Tho seeds require a tropical temperature and plenty of moisture to induce them to germinate. Briefly, the directions I would give for the importation of seeds of Hevea are : 1. See that the seeds are collected immediately after thej fall from the trees ; 2. Pack the Beeds dry in wooderr-boxes or bags if intended for long transport ; 3. Sow the seeds in a high temperature, and give them plenty of water ; -1. Seedlings should bo sturdy and abou'. a year old if intendel for a long journey in a Wardian case. W. W. THE OAK CATERPILLAR. — The replies to my letter respecting the Oak-caterpillar, have induced me to venture on one more. First, as to Mr. Forbes' con- Foling statement that no permanent injury need be feared ; with tho greatest respect to his opinion, I havo positive proof that repeated attacks of the cater- pillar do kill the Oak, as this occurred iu Hopmas Wood, near Tamwortb. 1 saw the trees. Many of the Oaks here are dead iu the tops, and they are comparatively young trees, i.e., about 120 years old. From observation I am pretty sure this is caused by the destruction in successive years of the crop of leaves. But now for another subject, viz., that of bird preservation, the point suggested by " 11. M., New- lurry." The rooks have this year scarcely left the Oak-trees, and have been observed particularly active iu tho infested branches. I do not find nearly as many caterpillars on the infested branches of young trees within my reach, and as yet have seen few moths. A gentleman well acquainted with the subject, informed me last week, that after two attacks of caterpillar in the woods at Belvoir, tbe rooks came down and completely cleared out the insects. Now the rooks have greatly diminished near here. In rook- shooting time, the breech-loader does its work too July 2, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 13 well. The inference I draw from what I can learn is, to give the rooks a jubilee, and encourage bird-life as much as possible. I have always been a friend to the birds, and I really believe the destruction of white owls, king-fishers, rooks, starlings, and all insect- eating birds to be about as great an act of folly as the farmer, gardener, or game-keeper can be guilty of. If any further facts respecting the Oak-caterpillar appear, I should only bo too happy to either read or communicate them. T. J. Levctt, HEUCHERA SANGUINEA. — Complaints are fre- quently made about the scarcity of flowers on this plant, which 1 think may be due to lack of frequent removal into rich soil. AtBelvoirlbave found that the plant soon becomes weak and exhausted if this be not performed. Sometimes, too, it suffers from late spring frosts ; but I have never seen it flower so freely as in the garden at Belton House, and on inquiring the cause I was informed the plants were raised from seed two years ago, but they had received no special kind of treatment, and yet were a mass of flowering- spikes, although many of these had been removed. The colour of the Belton flowers varied slightly from the type, and from each other, one plant being of a quite rosy hue. W. H. Divers. VIOLA DUCHESS OF SUTHERLAND. — This variety has flowered remarkably well at Belton House Gardens lately, and Mr. Emmerton speaks very highly of it as a bedding variety. Its colour is a ) leasing shade of lavender, the flower is of moderate size, and the habit of the plant compact and neat. It'. //. Divers. VAPORISATION WITH XL-ALL.— A corre6pondent signing himself "B. W. " writes in these columns on June 25 for information in regard to vaporising Grapes with XL-All liquid, and I will give my experience for his and others' benefit. I used the vapour on Muscat of Alexandria Grapes two years ago when stoning was nearly fiuished, the night was followed by two very bright days which scorched the foliage up, but the berries did not suffer at all, neither in appearance or flavour. I did not like undertaking the operation, but thought the vaporiser might as well kill the thrip (which it did thoroughly), as the tbrip injure both foliage and berries, but I think if they had been shaded from the bright sun for a day or two afterwards, no more than just the younger leaves would have been injured. The same Vines carried a good crop of fruit last year, and there is a good one on them now. The directions accompany- ing the stuff say, ''Do not vaporise Alicantes or Muscats. ' In the same house I have Alicante, Gros Colmar, and Gros Maroc, and these Vines were fcarcely injured at all. I have never tried it on Black Hamburgh or any other Vines, except those mentioned; but I prefer it to anything else in the way of insect destroyers forgeueral use. No Maiden- hair Fern can put up with it. I have not found it to injure any other plant 'or flower. A.J. Nightingale, Sedlands Gardens, Northampton. A HAILSTORM AT LAMPORT, NORTHAMPTON. ■ — A fearful storm passed over Lamport on Saturday, June 2."p. The weather was very threatening all day, thunderiugand lightning, and about 4 'iOitcommenced to rain, and was followed by hail aud snow chiefly, hail that came down so fast that it blocked the drains in the kitchen gardens and pleasure-grounds ; the lawns, and the borders, and the kitchen garden were covered with snow and hail to a depth of H inches, breaking off nearly all the leaders of the Scarlet Runner Beans, and the early Strawberries knocked about a good deal, but at present I cannot detect any Tety serious damage. The thei mometer fell to 37° Fahr., but only for a very little while, and then it rem.vned stationary for about an hour-and-a-half at 42°. The rec- tory garden suffered very much, Potatos being stripped of their leaves, Pai snips and Strawberry crops quite spoilt, and the majority of the blooms were knocked off the summer beddiDg plants ; in our agent's garden great damage was done generally. The hail and snow had to be removed from his front-door with wheelbarrow and shovel. The storm was quite local, as at the railway station no hail had fallen, and very little rain ; and at the next village, about \h mile distant, they were cutting hay all the afternocn. The storm came from the scuth-west. H. Kimpshali. myself were shown an extremely interesting form of the common Thorn, distinguished by an excessive development of spines. It was called var. spino- sissimus, but this in the Hand-list of trees and shrubs growu in the Kew Arboretum is given as a Bynonym of var. horrida, Hort., which name, therefore, is the best to adopt. The accompanying illustration (fig. 5) was kindly drawn by Mr. F. W. Bur- bidge, and grafts brought home will probably grow in the Cambridge Botanic Garden. The kindly way in which trimmings are kept at Vilvorde for those who may wish to use them as grafts, is worthy of remark ; they are heeled-in at the foot of the tree to which tiey belong, and those who wiBh may have them. E. I. L. FlG. 5.— CRATAEGUS OXYACANTHA VAR. 1IORR1DA. CRATAEGUS OXYACANTHA VAR. HORRIDA, Hort. When recently visiting the Belgian State School of Horticulture at Vilvorde, Mr. F. W. Burbidge and SOCIETIES. ROYAL HORTICULTURAL. June 22.— The Rev. Professor Henslow's second lecture, given again in the Great Vinery on the above date, with Mr. Marshall presiding, secured a very large attendance, fully eighty persons, chiefly young men, and the new lady students, being present. The subject was the interesting one of the "Origin of some Vegetables," a large amount of useful information being furnished that should greatly assist those present in their vocation. So much outside of the ordinary ruck of garden knowledge is the information thus furnished in the course of four lectures, it seems almost a pity that a series of questions on points dealt with, and on matters of special garden interest, could not finally be set, and an examination held of the students present, to test their interest and retentiveness. Mr. Henelow, at the outset, regretted that there were no reall3r new vegetables coming into use. All that did so were but of the old orders or fami- lies. He knew of a few plants that he thought might be improved into useful edible vygetibles, but these were not the subject of his observations. The extensive Bras-lea family was first noticed, and examples of the native species shown. The probable origin of many of the best known sections was discussed, lucidly, and free from dogmatism Root plants, such as Turnips, Radishes, Parsnips, and Carrots, were freely adverted to. The story of the origin of the Student Parsnip, as told by Professor Buckman, was mentioned. Beets and Potatos were also referred to, aud much interesting informa tion concerning them afforded. Special attraction was given to the lecture by the wealth of dried specimens and illustra- tions at disposal. The next lecture will be on the " Origin of some Flowers ; " and in consequence of the interposition of tho flower show at Richmond on the 29th, will bo given on July 6. A very cordial vote of thanks was given to Mr. Henslow at tho close of the lecture. COMMITTEE MEETING. June 28.— Seldom has the Drill Hall been more full of exhibits than on the occasion of an ordinary meeting of the committees on Tuesday last. Encouraged, so it would seem, by the Dover House collection of Malmaisou Carnations exhibited at the meeting hold a fortnight ago, cultivators of this very popular plant showed it in quantity and variety on Tuesday. Never havo we seen such a display in the Drill Hall of this type of Carnation as was made by the groups from Martin R. Smith, Esq., Lord Salisbury, and Messrs. Cutbush & Son, and in addition even to these was a splendid group of perpetual-flowering varieties in pots from Messrs. J. Peed & Sons. The collection of Martin R. Smith, Esq., was replete with novelties, four of which were distin- guished by the committee's Awards of Merit. The hardy plant nurserymen were largely in evidence, and of their flowers the large showy Paeonies were the principal feature. Sweet Peas, Delphiniums, Campanulas, Begonias, Ferns, and other plants were shown in quantity, and by the Floral Committee a number of awards were made to miscellaneous species. Orchids were not unusually numerous, and a little falling-on'may now be reasonably expected. Of fruit there was little shown, but it included a collection of first- rate fruits of the Queen Pino. In the afternoon the Rev. Professor Henslow delivered an address to a considerable audience upon certain interesting botanical phenomena sug- gested by a few of the plants exhibited. We were very sorry to learn that Mr. T Humphreys, Assistant Superin- tendent of the Chiswick Gardens, is lying seriously ill from effects of a blow upon the head from a oricket-ball, which occurred a week previous to the meeting. Floral Committee. Present: W. Marshall, Esq., chairman, and Messrs. John Fraser, Chas. T. Dmery, H. B. May, R. Dean, Wm. Howe, Jas. Hudson, John Jennings, Thos. Peed, R. B. Lowe, Chas. E. Pearson, H. Selfo Leonard, J. Fraeer, Jas. Walker, Chas. E. Shea, T. W. Sanders, Herbert J. Cutbush, EJ. Beckett, Geo. Paul, Harry Turner, D. B. Crane, H. J. Jones, Chas. Blick, and J. W. Barr. From Martin R. Smith, Esq., "Warren House, Hayes, Beckenham (gr., Mr. C. Blick), came a magnificent group of Malmaison and other Carnations, including some splendid new varieties of the former. Margot has nice blooms of little softer shade than Frime Minister, Lord Welby has very large flowers of rich colour, Mrs. de Satge is also a very fine flower of splendid character and bright colour, Baldwin has rich pink or rosy-pink flowers. These lour varieties of the Mal- maison type were recommended Awards of Merit, but others were equally handsome, and a study of them required more time than could be given them under such circumstances as prevailed on Tuesday. Altogether the group was a maguifi cent one, and a special attraction the whole of the day (Silver- gilt Banksian Medal}. A large display of the pink Malmaison Carnation came from Lord Salisbury, Hatfield House, Herts (gr., Mr. G. Nor- man). The plants were staged closely— too thickly, perhaps- together, and the show of bloom was as profuse as possible. The average plant carried about five or six blooms, and few buds were undeveloped (Silver Floral Medal). Upon the left-hand side of the entrance-door a large space of the floor was beautified by a display of Malmaison Carnations in pots, from Messrs. Cutbush & Sons, of Highgate. This group was arranged in glades, and backed by Bamboos : it made a very fine picture. Smaller groups of the highly coloured varieties — The Churchwarden and Prime Minister— were most effective. The blush and white- flowered plants were staged separately. A pretty group of perpetual-flowered Carnations also found a place in this most commendable exhibit (Silver Floral Medal). Messrs. J. Peed & Sons, Roupell Park Nurseries, Norwood Road, London, S. E., had a group of perpetual- flowered Car- nations in pots, immediately on the right hand upon entering the Hall. A large part of this group consisted of an excellent border variety, R. H. Measures, a reddish-crimson variety, large flowered, exceptionally free, and a f-plendidly behaved calyx. Primrose King, too, w^s shown, and J. W. Christmas, a fine pink coloured flower. Mr. Measures has a crimson flower of better form than R. H. Measures, but probably hardly so free. This was a very bright group, and the varieties shown were really good (Silver Banksian Medal). Messrs. Wm. Pai'l a: Sons, Waltham Cross, Herts, made an 14 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 2, 1898. exhibit of Roses, for the most part grouped together in bunches in boxes. Some of the charming garden varieties, and Messrs. Paul's newest Teas were well shown. Thf re was a dozen or so of standards in pots, representing Medea, T., climbing Niphetos, T., Enchantress, T., Helen Keller, H. P., Madame Hoste, T., and others (Silver Banksian Medal). A much variegated Antirrhinum was shown by Mr. J. A. Rumcieman, Stourvale Nursery, Christchurch, Hants. Mr. Philip Fry showed a few plants of Fuchsia New Life, a red-flowered variety with long corolla. Messrs. Watkin^ &l Simpson, Neal Street, Long Acre, W.C., exhibited half-a-dozen plants of a variegated dwarf Tropa^o- lum named Queen of Tom Thumbs, with deep crimson flowers (Award of Merit). Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, made a large display with hardy flowers, the group containing a fine show of Pa?onies, single and double-flowered. Many pretty and interesting Irises, too, were included, and Iceland Poppies, &c. Messrs. Barr also obtained an Award of Merit for Philadelphus Lemoinei (see fig. in Gardener*' Chronicle, ISy", p. SO, Vol. XXI), apparently little different to the one elsewhere noticed in Messrs. Veitch's exhibit (Silver Banksian Medal). Mr. F. G. Foster, Brockhampton Nurseries, Havant, had a collection of Sweet Peas in about sixty bunches, each of which was charmingly encircled in Ferns (Bronze Banksian Medal). Mr. J. Hudson, Gunnersbury House Gardens, Acton, showed blooms of several Nymphieas, including a few of Marliac's varieties. These were N. lucida, N. Laydekeri, in lilac and rose varieties; N. stellata, a blue species grown in heated water out-of-doors ; the red N. Ellisiana, and N. Mar- Hacea carnea; Chromatella, lemon-coloured, with deep yellow centie ; rosea, and albida (Silver Banksian Medal). Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Dorking (gr., Mr. Bain), was recommended an Award of Merit for Hedysarum multijugum. Thii pretty purple-flowering climbing plant was figured in the Gardeners' Chronicle, pp. S and 9, 1S95, vol. xviii. Several interesting flowers were sent by C. G. Van Tdber- gen, Junr., Haarlem, and a First-class Certificate was recommended to Lilium '* Marham," a small and numerously flowered variety, with brownish recurved segments, the basal portion of each being yellow, and spotted thickly w!th deep purple. Messrs. Paul & Sons, Cheshunt, were recommended two Award* of Merit for Roses, and very dissimilar ones. The first is a garden hybrid from R. canina x R. indica. Una, the seedliug, is a pure white flowered semi-dtuble garden Rose, possessing very sweet perfume. The flowers aie about 4 inches across, and the foliage and shoots are evidence of its robust habit. The other award was to H.P. Allan Cheales, a most attractive Rose when just opened from the bud. Though not suitable, probably, for exhibition, this charming rich piDk-coloured Rose is worthy of a place in every Rose- garden. The under side of the petals is silver-coloured, in the way of John Hopper. It is exceedingly robust, and the shoots in Messrs. Paul's garden have grown to great length. From the Cheshunt Nurseries also was a grand lot of Pioonies and other hardy flowers (Silver Banksian Medal). Lord Aldenham, Aldenham House, Elstree (gr., Mr. F. Beckett , staged a group of plants iipon the floor under the wall of the Hall. The group had a wavy outline, and was arranged on the dot system over a ground of Ferns and like material. The dot plants consisted of Codiamnis.Liliums speci- osuni and roteum, Cordylines, and Palms S to 10 feet high. A few Odontoglossum, Carnation, Crassulas, Celosias, (fee., were also employed. The display covered a large space, and most of the plants in it were finely cultivated sj ecimens (Silver-gilt Flora Medal). Mr. II. B. May of Dyson's Lane Nursery, Upper Edmonton, again made a pretty display of Ferns, choosing on this occasion to illustrate particularly the numerous interesting and liandsomo varieties of Adiantum (Silver-gilt Banksian Medal). Messrs. Balchin &Sons, Hassocks Nursery, Sussex, showed six extraordinary plants of Pluenocoma Barnesii, each about 3 feet high. The foliage was perfect and beautiful, and the plants were crowned with numerous flowers. They were perfect specimens. In Messrs. Geo. Jackman's group of hardy flowers from Woking Nursery, Surrey, we noticed bunches of Sweet Peas ; alsodouble-floweredPyrethrums, Paeonien, Heucherajaponica, &c, ; Campanula urticilolia plena as a pot plant, and a plant of the new Campanula mirabilis. But ihe plant as exhibited is scarcely so fine a species as was expected. The leaves are tbick and fleshy, alaost reniform in 6hape, but will grow probably much longer, about lj inch wide, and slightly serrated all round. The flowers are lj inch across, and not quite so much deep They are axillary and terminal, and in colour the palest blue, and silver-coloured at the bas_e (First-class Certificate). Messrs. H. Canneex & Sons contributed a line group of single-flowered Begonias. Some of the best were King of Begonias, scirlet; Rev. F. Gaye, salmon -pink; Albert George, orange red ; Earl Grosvenor; Mrs. Dudley Leigh, pink ; Mrs. Hyde, white ; Mrs. H. G Murray Stewart, scarlet; and Miss A. Stewart, lemon-colour (Bronze Banksian Medal). Messrs. H. Canni-li. & Sons, Swanley, Kent, also showed three old plants, 4 to 5 feet high, and nearlyas much through of Lavatera arborea variegata, they well portrayed ihe exceed- ing ornamental character of this variegated mal!ow. Mr. B. R. Davis, Yeovil Nurseries, Somerset, had a splendid show of tuberous-rooted Begonias, single and double-flowered. Both sections were represented by flowers of very fine quality, in size, colour, and form. Some of the best of the doubles wero Lucanie, deep carmino ; Mr.s. Stothert, pale lemon ; Miss L. Gott, pink ; Mrs. "W. Herbert Fowler, palest blush ; Clio, yellow, good form ; R. B. Par- sons, rose coloured. Thunderer and Florence Nightingale. The two last-named varieties were recommonded Awards of Merit. Florence Nightingale has white, almost Camellia- shaped blossoms, and Thunderer is bright crimson (Silver Banksian Medal?. Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons showed spikes of flowers repre- senting their strain of Digitalis purpurea grandiflora, magni- ficent in size and colours. An Award of Merit was recom- mended the strain ; also of hybrids betwo?n D. purpurea and I>. ambigua ; also sprays of Philadelphus coronarius erecta, Hedysarum multijugum, the red flowered EscalloniaLanglcy- ensis (see fig. 4, p. 11) of the pretty Sty rax japonica ; Robinia bispida, Indigofera decora alba, and Magnolia Watsoni (figured in Gtudcners' Chronicle, p. 189, 1894, vol. xvi.). A group of upwards of forty plants of Campanula medium calycvnthemum, in many prettily- tinted varieties ; and iprayaand plants of the lovely hybrid greenhouse Rhodo- drons were from the same establishment (Silver Flora Medal). Messrs. Veitch had also a very fine collection of P;conies, that made a gorgeous display. Cut flowers, too, were arranged with taste in competition for the Sherwood Challenge Cup. Some of the more notice- able flowers used, were Sweet Peas, Sweet Sultan, Sweet Williams, Linaria bipartiti splendiia, purple, with lighter lip; and the lovely Schizanthus Grahami retusMS, red, with orange- coloured lip. The variety alba is white, with orange-coloured lip. It is a pity we do not see Schizan- thuses more frequently. They are beautiful half-hardy annuals from Chili. Their cultivation is described at p. S. Messrs. Kelway & Son, Langport, Somersetshire, showed a more than usually extensive exhibit of cut-flowers of choice varieties of hardy herbaceous perennials- of their own raising, including P;eonies, of which Princess of Wales, blush, very large ; Chiron, a purplish-crimson flower of a large size, and very double; Ptter the Great, similar ; Rosamond, a pur- plish-i'ose, and Polyphemus were striking varieties. Other flowers noted were Eryngium Oliverianum, of a fine st°ely- blue colour, and other Bpecies of Eryngium ; Inula glauca, in capital heads of deep orange colour ; Pentstemon ornatus Kelwayi, with bright blue flowers, numerously produced on tall spikes. Gaillardias were many md very showy, but without exhibiting much departure in form or co'our from old types. Oi e, by name W. B. Child, bright yellow coloured variety, obtained an Award of Merit. A white Delphinium named sinense album, was very pure, and is undoubtedly a pretty variety ; L. podophyllus Somerset, a very effect ve yellow variety, received an Award of Merit ; Campanula persiea maxima is an ad ance certainly in size, and the colour is light-blue ; Papiver Silver Queen is apparently a P. somniferum variety, more deathly lookiDg than silvery ; ^Ethionema grandiflorum, a species with rosy lilac-coloured flowers, making gracefully semi-pendent masses, good for boider and rockery. As shown its good points were not seen. Thymus coccineus, a bright purplish rose-flowered species, also good for the rockery, the hue of the flowers being decided ; Delphinium nudicaule, and numerous other Delphiniums of the grandiflorum section, of which tho firm raises so many varieties. A Silver Flora Medal was awarded for the entire exhibit. Messrs. Sutton & Sons, seed merchants, Reading, showed Petunia, double pink, a fringed variety, sometimes running into green ; Sutton's doub'e-flowered Superb Petunia, similar to the foregoing in form of flower, but shown in a variety of colours, striped, blotched, and selfs ; Gladiolus, Queen of the Roses— the origin of this variety w^s not stated, but it appears to be of the G. psittacinus section, a pretty decorative flower of a pleasing tint. To this an Award of Merit was given. Messrs. R. Wallace hear it never can run up too high, assuming that ventilation be properly attended to. This of course applies to solar heat. When this begins to fail in the autumn, firing must of neces- sity be caiefully attended to. A temperature of G0° to tbD by day, and 50° to 50 by night, will keep the plants in good health ; and here it may be well to mention that careful attention to temperature is a good preventative against all sorts of insect pests. There was a great diversity of opinion as to what constituted a fit and proper soil for the successful cultivation of the Cactus. My experience has been such as leads me to the conclusion that good rub maiden loam, fine sand, and brick-rubble, in equal propor- tions, will grow most varieties well, though if a few pounds of oyster-shells and nodules of charcoal can be included, so much the better. Many growers are greatly in favour of the addition of manure to the compost for Cacti, but I must humbly express my disapproval of this practice. My reason for so doing is the following :— Many varieties of Cacti are Bubject to sudden rotting off during a damp, foggy winter, and I am certain that the rank, excessively sappy growth caused by the addition of animal manure not becoming suffi- ciently ripened is the great fault. Mr. Lees will tell you that this ovor-indulgence in manures is detrimental to the culti- vation of the Autumn Queen, and 1 venture to assure you that the same applies to the Cactus family. Now, before we proceed any further, it must not be imagined that there is anything particularly difficult in the cultivation of any genus of the Cactus tribe ; all that is necessary is proper and careful attention to a few little details which in themselves are all- important, and the neglect of which will soon be manifest in unhealthy appearances of plants and adequate loss of bloom. When you receive some Cactus cuttings or plants from a friend or dealer, carefully overhaul them for insect pests. Should these bo present in the form either o£ Thrips-scale, mealy-bug, or green or black fly, immediate operations must be put in force to eradicate them. Undoubtedly the best remedy for fly is tobacco. Isolate the plants in a frame, and smoke them on two consecutive evenings, taking care that the stems of the plants are at the time quite dry. This will strongly influence the effect of the smoke. They can be well washed with the syringe prior to their removal to the house, not forgetting, if the soil be wet, to turn the pots on their sides, and apply the syringe as much as possible sideways. If the pest assumes the form of scale, Thrips, or bug, dip the cuttings or plants into a solution of 3 oz. of soft-soap to one gallon of water, at a temperature of 100° to 125°, for ten or fifteen seconds. Some amateur growers seem to bo afraid to give water in a sufficient quantity to the plants during the growing season, and this is one great reason why they so soon become attacked both above and uuder ground. St we see that from April to August, dining which period most varieties put on their new growth, water must be freely applied both at the roots and overhead by means of the syringe. The question so often met with — How often ought I to water my plants ?— can only be answered thus : Give the plants plenty of water when they require it, and when not do not apply it. This question of the application of water is also a very important one, the presence of insects as already mentioned often being traceable to neglect. it is well to bear in mind that the removal of insects from a Cactus is slightly hampered by surroundings. These arc the spines, and in reference to their power of penetration it is better to accept the word of one who knows by his own experience than to experiment yourselves. Some spines, on vaiieties such SL^ Echinocactus texensis, E. cornigerus, Brevi- hamatus (central one only), are hooked, and will make as frightful a gash as a tiger-cub's claws. While upon the ques- tion of spines, I should like to impress upon you the fact that the variation of colour in the spines is one of the many attractions which the members of the Cactus family possess. One of the finest examples of this peculiarity is found in Echinocactus Grusoni (the Golden Cactus). Echinocactus aureus is another fine goldan - f-pined sort (but rather rare), while in Echinccac us bicolor the spines &rj so o bging as to assume tints of yellow, red, and ambar colour, forming a fine contrast to its rosy - purple flowers. In Echinocactus begium the spines are white, tipped with purple. E. cornigerus has broai purple spines, which are as strong as steel. The spines of the Echino- cereus candicins (the Rainbow Cactus), has spines which are all colours of the rainbow, and should be included in all c Elections. The colours of the stems of some varieties of Cereus are also very attractive. Cereus Jamacaru is a striking plant by reason of the fine blue colour of its stem. Somo of the members of the genera— Cereus mammillaria and Echinocactu-i— aro remirkablo for the handsome fruits wbirh they produce. Theee fruits are form d after the floweiing period, and are particularly handsome. The pro- pagation of Cacti is a very simple process, consisting of seeds, cuttings and offsets ; I prefer the propagation rather from cuttings than seed, because in the case of the lalter there is a possible doubt of your getting it fresh. The speaker then followed with a few remarks upon the so closely-allied plant*, Succulents, and was accorded a hearty vote of thanks at the close. HORTICULTURE AT THE ROYAL AGRICULTURAL S0CIETYS SHOW, BIRMINGHAM. Junk 20.— The show of the Royal Agricultural Society opened <>u the above date in fine weather, at the ancient borough of Sutton Coldfield, whoa i inhabitants vied with each other in their display of bunting. The showyard was situated in Four Oaks Park, a distance of 0 miles from Bir- mingham, and the success of the show was largely dependent on the assistance of the various railway companies. The number of visitors on Monday cannot compare with those visiting Manchester last year, 2642 persons having passed the turnstiles, against 4547 at the latter city last year. At Bir- mingham in 1S76 on the first day of the show the visitors numbered 5256. The first object to notice on entering the park was Messrs. Sutton" A Sons' stand of garden and farm Beeds and pr >duce, displayed in a conspicuous manner, a seed-tester and ger- minator forming a noteworthy feature of tho exhibit. Another novel feature was a panoramic exhibit of photo- graphic illustrations of vegetables and flowers raised by themselves or their customers. A fine group of Gloxinia plants was also exhibited, in order to show the great progress that has been made in the improvement of this beautiful and popular flower. Potatos were represented by about twenty-five varieties, some of the best being Sutton's Windsor Castle, Supreme, Triumph, Satisfaction, Magnum Bonum, Reliance, and the Flourball. The Arm likewise showed Peas in capital form as grown in flower-pots, tho variety May Queen being especially notable for its heavy crop of pods. The climbing French Bean, with a profusion of pods, was also shown as grown in flowerpots. The Dessert and Golden Nugget Tomato formed a prominent part of the display, the former being a very prolific variety, and excellent for consuming in the raw state. There was much more in this stand that appealed more to farmers than gardeners, of which wo omit notice. The Messrs. Webb & Sons, of Stourbridge, had perhaps the most imposing section of the stand, viz., that devoted to flowers, where Webbs' tuporb strains were represented by really fine plants in bloom of Calceolaria, Begonia, Petunia, Sweet Peas, Stocks, Liliunis, Gladioli, aic. Vegetables tonne. 1 another meritorious collection, tho Beans, Parsnips. Cucum- bers, Tomatos, Cauliflowers, Carrots, Leeks, Onions and Lettuce being the finest we hive seen for so early in the season. Webbs' new Peas Pioneer and Senator growing in pots, shnwed a profusion of long well-fllled pods, whilst among the varieties of Potatos Webbs' New Motor was conspicuous for its large size and splendid quality. Messrs. Webb & Sons had decorated tho exterior of the Hall with ornamental lawns, flowering plants, Palms, . Messrs. R. Veitch & Son, Exeter, stagedasplendid lot of herbaceous perennials as cut flowers, together with rare species of plants grown in pots, viz , Acalypha Sanderiana, A Godsefliana, and Dracama Sandcri. These exhibitors had arranged a minature specimen of rock- work. Messrs. Cooling staged an excellent group of herbaceous Punnies, as bad also Mr. White, Worcester; and Messrs. Barr & Son, Covent Garden, made a great display of herbacoous perennial and bulbous plants ; and Mr. F. Hooper, Bath, showed a very creditable group of Tansies and Violas. Mr. Gould, Rock Hall, Bath, vice-President National Cactus Society, received a Certificate of Merit for a largo and interesting collection of Cacti, in which were many rare species. The Conference. During the afternoun a conference was held, and Mr. W. F. Cooling in compliance with a request from the N. R. .S., opened a discussion by reading a paper on " How different kinds of Roses should be pruned." This was followed by a discussion in which several leading rosarians took part. A feature of the discussion was the laying down of the principle that there was a great difference between pruning so as to produce Roses for show, and pruning for garden ornamenta- tion. In summing up his paper, Mr. Cooling said the points upon which he wished to lay stress were(l), That a certain section of Roses should not be pruned in the spring. (2), That H.P. and T. Rosen intended for garden decoration did not require suchhi.rd pruning as was usually recommenced. (S», That the most important point in all pruning, at what- ever time it was performed, and with whatever variety, was the cutting out of all growths that had flowered to bring about as it were a renewal of the plant ; and lastly the peculiarity of certain varieties. The chairman, Mr. R. B. Cater, moved a cordial vote of thanks to Mr. Cooling for his paper. WINDSOR, ETON, AND DISTRICT ROSE AND HORTICULTURAL. June 25. — The royal borough of Windsor has a pretty little exhibition each year, and it is nothing more than a horticultural show, having absolutely none of the variety attractions that have been found to be so essential to the prosperous existence of many societies. But the one we visited on Saturday last, like some of its predecessors, was held on the slopes, just under the very walls of the Castle, and with the patronage of the Queen, and the devotion of an energetic secretary in Mr. Romaine, the Society seems to get along comfortably enough. From our point of view, interest centres chiefly in the Roses shown in the open classes, beyond which the exhibits are purely of local contribution. But there are usually good Ro.;es at Windsor, and this year those staged were the best seen this season up t) last Saturday, being of much better quality than those at the National Society's show at Bath earlier in tho week. But the good Roses cost the Society something, for Mr. B. R. CaNT won the Queen's Challenge Cup for the second lime in succession, and it has become his property, a fact that the Secretary refemd to good-humou edly as "a blow." Below we give details concerning the Roses, and of some of the best of the more loc 1 exhibitors. Open Rose Classes. Proof that the Queen's Silver Cup, value 10 guineas, was a coveted prize, is furnished by the fact that there were six competitors in tho class. The schedule called for forty- eight blooms, distinct, and one collection was disqualified for inadvertently failiug to comply with this condition. The two best exhibitors were Messrs. B. Cant & Sons, and D. Prior & Sons, both Colchester firms. The judges decided in favour of Messrs. Cant, and as this firm won the Cup last season, it now becomes their property. The 1st prize collec- tion contained an even lot of flowers, few of thera being of extra or inferior quality. Some of the best, however, were Madame Gabrielle Luizet, Magna Charta, Duke of Edinburgh, Princess of Wales, Marquise Litta, Cleopatra, Mrs. John Laing, Madame Cusin, and Catherine Merrnet. In Messrs. A. Prior & Son's exhibit there were fine speci- mens of the following varieties :— White Lady, Souvenir de la Malmaison, Heinrich Schultheiss, Magna Charta, and Mrs. John Laing. There was scarcely a point diff rence in the two exhibits. The 3rd prize was taken by Messrs. Habk- nes-s & Sons, Hitchin, Herts, and Bedale, Yorkshire ; the other exhibitors being Mr. Charles Turner, Messrs. Frank Cant & Co., and Mr. Geo. Prince, Oxford. The Teas in the last- mentioned exhibitor's stand were very fine, and included a splendid bloom of Comtesse de Nadaillac. The best collection of eighteen blooms, Teas or Noisettes, came from Mr. Prince, whose flowers generally were of good average quality. Messrs. F. Cant &l Co. beat Messrs. Prior & Son for 2nd place. Mr. Prince's varieties included Cleopatra, The Bride, Comtesse de Nadaillac, Catherine Merrnet, Princess of Wales, Madame Cusin, Maman Cochet, Alba rosea, Medea, Souvenir d'Elise Vardon, and Princess Beatrice. Mr. Benjamin R. Cant was 1st for twelve distinct Roses in trebles, such varieties as Gustave Piganeau, Ulrich Brunnor, Madame Gabrielle Luizet, and Marquise Litta telling consider- ably. Messrs. Frank Cant & Co. were not far behind as 2nd ; and it was a good exhibit that won 3rd prize for Mr. Geo. Prince. The best twelve single trusses of any H. P. or H, T. were from Messrs. Frank Cant & Co., who showed a pretty group of the distinct coloured Mrs. W. J. Grant. Mr. B. R. Cant followed with La France. Mr. Geo. Prince bad the best dozen of any Toa or Noisette, showing Comtesse de Nadaillac. Of the showy garden Roses there were three exhibits of eighteen bunches each, there being little difference in the method of showing tho (lowers in either case. Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, woro 1st, and in their faced sprays included several good varieties of com- parative novelty. Dawn, a large single - flowered pink variety ; and Royal Scarlet, may bo singled out as the best of theso. Mr. Chas. Turner, Slough, was little behind, and in his 2nd prize stand included some excellent bunches. Amateur and Local Classes. In tho class for twenty-four blooms, there were two exhibits, but only one of these should have been staged. This collection, from R. E. West, Esq., Firth Dene, Wray Park, Reigate, included many very fine blooms, such as Captain Hay ward, Marquise deCastellane, Gustave Piganeau, Duke of Edinburgh, and some others. This same exhibitor had 2nd prize for a collection of t-ix H.P. blooms, showing Marquise de Caatellane ; and Mr. West won also for twelve Teas and Noisettes, being followed by W. C. Romaine, Esq., whose bright little flowers were little inferior. Mr. West had the best six trebles. Groups and Tlants, Aic. There were as many as seven groups of plants arranged for effect in a half-circle 12 feet by 6 feet. The 1st prize group from Sir Chas. Tiggoti-, Bt, Wexham Paik (gr , Mr. J. Fleming), was a group of very choice plants, and the arrange- ment left little to be desired. Whether the Codheums, Cattleyas, Carnations, Lilies, or other species, be considered, they were of fine quality. Sir Rout. Harvey, Bt, Langley Park. Slough (gr., Mr. A. Gillie), was 2nd, and the rest of the exhibitors were consider- ably behind. For four specimen plants, the Hon. H. C. Leoge, Fulmer. Slough (gr., Mr. T. G. Mowbray), was to the front, and showed magnificent examples of two Codiaeums, an Asparagus plumosue, and an Alocasia. F. Baker, Esq., Ottershaw Park (gr. , Mr. T. Osman), had a well merited 1st prize for four specimen Feins, and was 2nd also in the previous class. Table plants were very pretty, and the best group of six was shown by Mr. Jas. Wood, gr. to lord Boston, Heds-r Park, Maidenhead. In the little light-colourel tent containing the table deco- rations there were five exhibits, one of these being non- competitive. The 1st prize arrangement by Miss Ed. Gould was very pretty, with Poppies and Sweet Peas, relieved by Smilax and a little Fern. Miss Gee, who was 2nd, used much Honeysuckle, Sweet Peas, Gladiolus, Arupelopsi* sprays, &c. It was a little overdone, otherwise the effect wouM have been very beautiful. Mr. T. Williams, of Ealing, had a non-competitive exhibit of much merit. Fruits and Vegetables. The best collection of four dishes of fruit was from Lord Boston. He had two bunches of Black Hamburgh Gr.tpes, dishes of Nectarines, Brown Turkey Figs and a Melon. Two fine bunches of Black Hamburgh Grapes came from Mr. G. Lane, gr. to Miss Ridge, Staines, and were 1st in their class. F. Easier, Esq., was 1st for White Grapes. Peachos were good generally, a capital dish being shown from the Hon. H. C. Leoge's garden ; and Lord Boston's Nectarines were fine. The best collection of nine dishes of vegetables came from the Hon. C. S. Irby, Hiteham Grange, Maiderjhc:id (gr,t Mr. D. Paxton), and were good. Miss Rudoe obtained 1st prize in Messrs. Sutton's class for vegetables. The best Tumato shown in a separate class was the variety lVlegate. Honorary Exhibits. These were displijcd in a tent devoted to tbem. A cir- cular gioup of R-jses iu pots, fringed with Ferns, from Mr. Chas. Turner, Roj al Nurseries, Slough, was a pretty feature ; and but a few yards horn this was a table laden with Orchid treasures from The Dell, Egham, Baron Schroder's garden. This was gay with Cattleya Mossi^*, Vanda teres, fine forms of Odontoglossum crispum, Miltonia vexillaria, Od. Halli leucoglitssum, Cypripedium?, &c. Messrs. Hugh Low & Co., Bush Hill Park, Enfield, richly furnished a table with a wealth of Cattleya Mosshe in great variety and fine quality. Lielia tenebrosa, a few Cypripe- diums, and highly-coloured Codut-ums, completed this fine exhibit. Pelargoniums from Mr. Chas. Turner made the gayest circular group in the show, the plants being abundantly furnished with flowers of dazzling colours. Messrs. R. Wallace & Co., Kilnficld Gardens, Colchester, exhibited flowers of a number of species and varieties of Lilium. The varieties of L. Thnnbergianum alone furnishing an abundance of deep colour. Irises in variety, Ixias, Alliums, Pa^onies, and the new pink-flowered Lilium rubellum were all very beautiful in Messrs. Wallace's exhibit. Mr. W. H. Fitt, of 24, Thames Street, Windeor, had bunches of hardy flowers and a few florist's arrangements, and bunches of hardy flowers, all of them bcin; very bright and fresh looking. Messrs. Barr & Sons, 12, King Street, Covent Garden, London, W.C., made a considerable display of hardy flowers, inclusive of Irises, pretty Iceland Poppies in various colours, and showy varieties of Moutan Pieonios. Another group of hardy flowers came from Mr. Eric F. Such, of the Royal Berkshire Nursery, Maidenhead] in which a number of good hardy species were presented in fine condition. Messrs. Geo. Jackman & Son, Woking, Surrey, had cut Roses, including some good garden varieties ; Sweet Peas, Peonies, sprays of hybrid Clematises, and other hardy flowers. One of the largest displays of hardy flowers was from the nursery of Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, King's Road, Chelsea* in whoso collection was noticed very flue Pjconios, Pyre- thrums, Galllardia hybrids, Ileuchera sanguinea, sprays of Tropaiolum polyphyllum, and other pretty things. Lady Mahv Curnie, Clewer Hill House, Windsor (gr., Mr. F. II. Beney), had a vory pretty collection of Sweet Peas in sprays, and for a portion of these obtained Mr. Ecki-ord's prize for twelve varieties. Jult 2, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 17 CROYDON HORTICULTURAL. June 2D. — The thirty-first annual show of tho Croydon Society was held on the above date in tho grounds of Brick- wood House, close to East Croydon Railway Station. There are usually some first-class Roses exhibited at Croydon, but the lateness of the present season, coupled perhaps with the fact that the gay town of Richmond was holding its annual show upon the same date, resulted in limiting the extent of the display, the number of competitors being fewer than is general at Croydon. Nor was the quality of tho blooms first- rate, but considerably less than the average at Windsor on the previous Saturday, where there was also greater com- petition. Below we give details*of the Rose classes, and of the more important of the plants and fruits. Thera wero other exhibits of a local character, and from cottagers.] Roses. For forty-eight Roses, distinct, Messrs. F. Cant & Co , Colchester, beat Messrs. Prior & Sons, also of Colchester. The varieties in the 1st prize stand were A. K. Williams, Mrs. Frank Cant, Camilla Bernardin, Madame Gabrielle Luizet, Victor Hugo, Marchioness of Duflerin, Mrs. W. J. Grant, Dupuy Jamain, Duke of Wellington, Cleopatra, Duchess of Bedford, Jennie Dickson, Helen Keller, Caroline Testout, Messrs. R. G. Sbarman Crawford, Auguste Rigotard, Ernest Metz, Beauty of Waltham, Rubens, Alfred Colomb, Princess of Wales, Francois Michelon, Marchioness of Down- shire, Duke of Albany, Ethel Browulow, Captain Hay ward, Marguerite de St Amand, Medea, Devoniensis, Crown Prince, Prince Arthur, Mare'chal Niel, Duke of Teck, Jules Finger, Madame Cusin, Maman Cochot, Dr. Sewell, Suzanne-Marie Rodocanachi, Niphetos, La France, Abel Carriere, Comtesse do Nadaillac, Dr. Andry, Catherine Mermet, Reynolds Hole, and Souvenir d'un Ami. Messrs. F. Cant & Co. again beat Messrs. Prior in a class for twenty-four Roses in trebles, the display being a very good one. Some of the best were Dr. Andry, Capt. Hay ward, Duke of Wellington, Mrs. W. J. Grant, and Beauty of Waltham. There were three competitors in the class for twenty-four Roses, distinct, reserved to growers not exhibiting in the two classes described above. Mr. John R. Box, of West Wiekham and Croydon, won 1st prize ; the best blooms in his stand were Magna Ofaarta, Margaret Dickson, and Duke of Edinburgh. Augustus G. Green, Roselands Nursery, Colchester, beat Mr. Thus. Butcher, of Shirley, for 2nd place. The best collection of eighteen Teas or Noisettes was from Messrs. D. Prior & Sons, and generally the blooms were of moderately good quality. The best of the varieties were Caroline Kuster, Madame Cusin, Innocente Pirola, Anna Olivier, Maman Cochet, Marie Van Houtte, Ernest Metz, and Cleopatra. Messrs. Frank Cant &, Co. were 2nd in this case, and included a fine bloom of Madame A. Etienne. In a class for twelve Roses of one variety, the beautiful and distinct variety Mrs. W. J. Grant gained 1st prize for Messrs. D. Prior &, Son ; and in a similar class for twelve blooms of a Tea or Noisette Rose, the variety Souvenir d'Elise Vardon won 1st prize for Mr. A. G. Greev, Roselands Nursery, Col- chester. Messrs. Prior & SoNi were 2nd with Souvenir de S. A. Prince. Thirty-six Roses distinct (amateurs). The Challenge Cup in this class was won by A. Slaughter, E-iq., Jarvis Villa, Steyning. the only exhibitor. The blooms staged were small and not so satisfactory as could he wished in a cup class. In the following class the same exhibitor was again the only competitor, but the general quality of the Roses was rather better. The best collection of twelve Roses of one variety was from E. M. Bethune, Esq, Denne Talk. Horsham, showing moderate sized blooms of A. K. Williams. In the class for twelve Koses distinct from growers of fewer than 2000 plants, the best of three exhibitors was P. G. C. Burxani), Esq., Hill Grange, Reigate. His varieties were as follows, and the blooms better than might be expected in comparison with less limited classes, Duke of Edinburgh, La France, Gustave Piganeau, Catherine Mermet, Pride of Waltham, A. K. Williams, Roaierfste Jacobs, Dupuy Jamain, Horace Vernet, General Jacqueminot, La France No. 2, and Prince Camille de Rohan; E. M. Bethune, Esq., was 2nd. Among the same class of growers, E. M. Bethune, Esq., was 1st for twelve Teas or Noisettes, distinct, the best of these being Comtesse de Nadaillac, Souvenir d'Elise, Anna Olivier, Catherine Mermet, Perlc des Jardins, and Madame de Tart as ; E. Mawley, Esq., Rosebank, Berkhamsted, was 2nd. The best collection of four Roses, distinct, in trebles, came from P. G. C. Burn and, Esq., his varieties being Caroline Testout, Gustave Piganeau, Comtesse de Nadaillac, and A. K. Williams; G. Mawley, Esq., was 2nd here, and showed good blooms of Tea varieties. In both classes for growers of fewer than 500 plants, the 1st prize was withheld. Coming to growers of fewer than 500 plants, the class for six Roses, distinct, was won by W. D. Freshfield, Esq., The Wilderness, Reigate, his best blooms being Grace Darling and Magna Cbarta ; and thLs exhibitor won 1st also for six Teas or Noisettes, distinct. Local Classes.— For twelve Roses distinct, a new chal- lenge cup was offered to amateurs residing within 2 miles of Croydon Town Hall. This was won by A. C. Gn ford, Esq., Cornwalls, South Norwood, who bad a creditable collection ; and there were two other competitors. The best group gf six H.P.'s distinct, was from M. Hodgson, Esq., Shirley Cottage, Shirley, who won also for the best six Toas or Noisettes. Plants. The best group of plants arranged in an oval shaped group 18 feet by 14 feet, came from Philip Crowley, Esq., Waddon House, Croydon (gr., Mr. J. Harris). This was exceedingly meritorious, the constituent plants being no less remarkable for quality than the disposition of them was tasteful. General stove and Greenhouse species of the choicer kinds with a few Orchids and Cannas in flower were used. The 2nd prize group from C. Lane, Esq., Bumtwood, Upper Cater- ham, had also much to recommend it. The best and only collection of six Cordylines was from Philif- Crowley, Esq. It included finely coloured plants of Gladstone, Majcstica, Regalis, Babtisti. Tho best Caladiums were from Mr. J. W. Hicks, gr. to C. D. Lord, Esq., Dunearn, Crescent Wood Road, Sydenham Hill, and wero moderate- sized plants. The best specimen plant with ornamental foliage was a magnificent specimen of Cycas revoluta, profusely furnished with fronds, and in luxuriant health. The best specimen flowering plant was Bougainvillea glabra, from E. H. Coles, Esq. Philip Crowley, Esq., had also the only collection of six Exotic Ferns, Davallia Mooreana and D. lijiensis elegans being capital plants. The worthy chairman of the Fruit Committee of the Royal Horticultural Society won 1st prize also for nine Ferns distinct, in pots not exceeding u" inches in diameter, and he was followed by Mr. G. Lewry, gr. to Mrs.' Blake, Duppas Hill. The best competitive tuberous Begonias were from Mr. W. Sparshott, gr. to Mrs. Hall, S'anton House, Parkhill Rise, in a collection of nice plants. They were very good. This exhibitor had 1st prize for Gloxinias, showing really beautiful and profusely bloomed plants. The best group of Gloxinias intermixed with a few ornamental foliage plants was from Mr. W. Gladwell, gr. to S. Smet, Esq., Werndee Hall, South Norwood. For a smaller group of miscellaneous plants the 1st prize was taken from two other competitors by Mr A. Dyer, gr. to T. Peacock, Esq., Chichester Road, Croydon. The six most graceful table plants were from Mr. G. Eales, gr. to J. Glaisher, Esq., Heathfield Road, Croydon ; but Mr. C. Lane, gr. to E. H. Coles, Esq., won for twelve plants, showing a very pretty collection. Fruit. Mr. J. Friend, The Gardens, Rooksnest, Godstone, won 1st prize for white Grapes in three bunches, with Foster's Seedling, not perfectly finished ; and Mr. C Bluiton, gr. to H.-Cosmo-Bonsor, Esq., M.P., Kingsworth Warren, had the best black Grapes in Hamburgh. Capital Royal Sovereign Strawberries took 1st prize in the Strawberry class for Mr. C. Blurton, gr. to H. Cosmo-Bonsor, Esq., M.P., Kings wood Warren. Mr. O. Jeal, gr. to Miss Waierall, Waddon Lodge, had the best Cucumbers ; and S. Osmond, Esq., Ottershaw Park, Chertsey, the best Melon, in a medium-sized fruit of AI. Honorary Exhibits. Meesrs. J. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill Nurseries, London, S E , had a group of tuberous rooted Begonias, which faced the entrance to the large tent. 1 he varieties were chiefly double- flowered, and beside creating a fine display, they were individually of much merit. Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, also staged double- flowered Begonias, the varieties, Miss M. Mitchell, Mrs. Towers Clarke, pink ; Mrs. Norton, pink ; Sir J. B. Maple, crimson-scarlet, Dr. Nansen, deep crimson ; and Ida Grace, rich salmon ; and S. Bryceson, being most noteworthy. A third eihibit was from Mr. H. J. Jones, Ryeoroft Nursery, Hither Green, Lewisham. The choicest of these were Ryecroft Salmon, doable; Mrs. G. F. Hall, salmon- pink, double ; Miss Clara Walher, double j ink ; Snowstorm, single; and Mrs. E. Beckett, carn.ine, single. Mr. Jno. R. Box made a grand display of tuberous -rooted Begonias and ornamental -foliage plants in a group of very atti active appearance, his double and sing'e varieties being remarkable for the best quality. Hardy flowers were shown by Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden; Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley ; and Mr. J. Box, West Wiekham and Croydon, who had also a group of Gloxinias in pots. RICHMOND HORTICULTURAL. June 29. — The twenty-fourth annual exhibition was held amid glorious weather, ou Wednesday last, in the Old Deer Park. The Hose classes, open to all exhibitors, were good, there being considerable competition, and the flowers were "by no means inferior in quality. The principal class at Richmond calls for a larger number of Roses than any one class at most exhibitions, the one for forty-eight trebles being still retained there. The Challenge Cup ottered in this class was secured by the veteran exhibitor, Mr. B. R. Cant, of Colchfster. The classes for groups of plants and specimen plants were fairly well filled, particularly the former. There were very fine Orchids ihown in competition, as well as by houorary exhibitors. Florists' arrangements, and table deco rations, too, wero very good, but our limited space forbids us referring to these in detail. Finally, beyond tho fruits and vegetables, were vegetables shown by Richmond Allot- ment-holders, in every sense creditable to the exhibitors. The Richmond show owed much to the honorary exhibits from the trade. Roses. The 1st class, which called for the enormous number, of 144 Roses in forty-eight varieties, was won by Mr. B. R. Cant, Colchester, from several other exhibitors. Accom- panying the 1st prize in this class is a handsome Silver Challenge Cup, presented to the Society by its founder. Mr. Cant had a grand lot of blooms in this collection, and especially were the following v-irieties of excellent quality :— Mrs. John Laing, Hellen Keller, La France, Antuino Riviere, Dr. Andry, Marie Verdier Lady M. Fitzwilliam, Duke of Edinburgh, Heinrich Schultheiss, Dlrich Brunner, Clara Watson, Madamede Watteville, Mrs. Sharman Crawford! and M. Gabrielle Luizet. A collection from Messrs. F. Cant &; Co., also of Colchester, was 2nd, and a close 2nd too, his Roses being bright in colour, fresh, but perhaps embracing rather less substance. But there were some capital trebles in the stand. Messrs. Prior & Son, of Colchester, were 3rd. In the twenty-four treble class, the 1st prize went to Messrs. D. Prior & Son, who staged the following varieties in good condition: -Rubens, Prince Arthur, Tom Wood, Marchioness of Downshire, Marie van Houtte, Duke of Edin- burgh, Mrs. Sharman Crawford, Dupuy Jamain, Marie Bau- mann, Mrs. J. Laing, La France, UJrich Brunner, and Lady M. Fitzwilliam. Messrs. F. Cant & Co. followed in this class. Mr. Chas. Turner was 3rd. The best collection of twelve distinct varieties of Roses in trebles came from Mr. C. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough'; the varieties here were Mrs. J. Laing, Marie Baumann, La France, Duke of Edinburgh, Caroline Testout (very fine and large), Gustave Piganeau, Ulrich Brunner, Marchioness of Downshire, Duke of Wellington, Souvenir de President Carnot, Duke of Teck, and Mrs. Crawford ; Messrs. D. Prior & Sons were good as 2nd prize exhibitors in this class, show- ing very even, fresh floweis ; Messrs. F. Cant & Co. were 3rd. The best twelye blooms of a H.P. were from Mr. B. R. Cant, who had bright, moderate-sued blooms of Duke of Edinburgh ; Mrs. W. J. Grant was the variety shown by Messrs. F. Cant & Co., who were 2nd; and Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, were 3rd, with Rev. Alan Cheale. The best Tea Rose was Rubens, twelve pretty blooms being staged by Messrs. F. Cant & Co.; the delicate tint of this Rose is very charming. 2nd, Messrs. D. Prior & Sunj, Colchester, with Souvenir de S. A. Prince. R. E. West, Esq., Reigate, won a special prize offered by Lady Ellis for twenty-four blooms in not fewer than twelve varieties ;"and was also 1st for the prize offered by Sir G. 8. Meason, J. P., for twelve Teas and Noisettes. In the amateur class for twenty-four Roees, distinct, single trusses, and for twelve Roses, distinct, single trusses, the 1st prizes were won by W. Romaines, Esq., Old Windsor (gr., Mr. J. Guttridge). In the latter class, J. P. Kitchen, Esq., Manor House, Hampton (gr., Mr. C. Warwick),was a good 2nd. Plants. The principal class for a group of miscellaneous plants arranged for effect was won by a beautiful exhibit from Mr. H. E. Fordham, The Nurseiics, Twickenham. A ground- work of Ferns and other foliage plants was relieved by excellent Gloxinias, Liliums, Cannas, Cattleyas, Hydrangea paniculate, Tuberoses, Carnations, &c. ; and the pretty Gyp^ophila, used with some liberality, gave a light and pleasing finish to the attractive picture. Mr. M. Yacse, of Leamington, was 2nd. The best semicircular group of planls in 60 square feet, in competition for a special piize given by W. Wilson, Esq., was from Sir F. Wigan, Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen (gr., Mr. C. Want). Some fine Odontoglossums helped greatly to the pretty effect presented by the group. Six zonal Pelargoniums were exceedingly good from W. Little, Esq., B.ironshalt. East Twickenham (gr., Mr. G. Watts); the plants were about 4 feet across, and extremely well and evenly flowered. For the Society's prize of three guineas, for a group of Car- nations in pots', space not to exceed 50 feet, a very good group of plants of the Malmaison type from A. F. Pears, Esq , Spring Grove, Isleworth (gr., Mr. Farr), took 1st prize. Most of the plants were one year old, and carried one flower, and in foliage and flower they were very commendable. The best collection of six plants of sIk.w and decorative, as well as fancy Pelargoniums, were from Mr. C. Turner, Royal Nurseries, Slough, who took 1st prize in each class. W. Stacey, Esq., West Drayton (gr/, Mr. John Wiggins), was 2nd, for show and decorative varieties. Mr. Turner's plants were very pretty. The winner of the class for six exotic Ferns was Mr. Farr, gr. to W. F. Pears, Esq., Spring Grove, Isleworth, these included a very fine specimen of Polypodium aureura, a fine Dicksonia antartica, and Davallia fijiensis. Mr. Farr also had the best specimen foliage plant in Asparagus plumosus. For the best group of six tine foliage plants, Mr. W. Yaisi , Leamington, won 1st prize, showing two Codiseums and four Palms. Coleuses in a collection of six plants were shown well by J. B. Bilditch, Esq., Asgitt House, Richmond (gr., Mr. A. Meat on ) ; and Caladiums, also in a collection of six plants, by W. Cunard, Esq., Orleans House, Twickenham (gr., Mr_ T. Allsop). The Caladiums were very pretty. 2nd, Mr. Want, gr. to Sir F. Wkjan, East Sheen. A collection of Bix Palms from V. Cunard, Esq., Orleans House, Twickenham (gr., Mr. T. Allsop), won a special prjzc offered by J- D. McDoucall, Esq. The specimens were of considerable size and well grown. The class for six stove and greenhouse plants in flower was entered by only one exhibitor, viz., M. W. VaUSB, and apparently a 2nd prize was awarded the exhibit. 18 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 1898. W. H. Ellis, Esq., Clovelly, Hounslow, had 1st prize for nine Gloxinias, showing in very fine form indeed. For the best six plants of any Orchid species in flower, H. Little, Esq., Baronshalt, East Twickenham, beat Sir F. WlQAN, Bart., Clare Lawn, East Sheen (gr., Mr. W. H. Young). Mr. Little's exhibit included excellent specimens of Cattleya Meudeli, C. Warneri, very fine, with fourteen flowers, C. Mossiaj, C. gigas, Leetia grandis tenebrosa, and Cypripediuui Vcitchi. In Mr. Young's exhibit were Cypripedium Rothschildiaium, Cattleya Mossiie, and C. Warneri, all very gocd indeed. Dr. D. H. Scott, The Old Palace, Richmond (gr., Mr. R. Johnson), won a special prize for a group of tuberous rooted Begonias, and showed well, the single varieties being best and more abundantly represented. The best twenty-four bunches of hardy herbaceous cu!- flowers were shown by Messrs. Barr A Sons, King Street, Covent Garden. We noticed good bunches of Linaria mace- donica, Erigeron glabellus, Oalochortus, Iris orientalis maximus. Irises, Heuehera sanguinea, &c. Messrs. Paul & Son, Cheshunt, closely followed for 2nd place ; and Messrs. A W. Yolno & Co., Stevenage Nurseries, were 3rd. Fruit and Vegetables. The class for six dishes of fruit distinct was won by Mr. T. Osman, Ottershaw Park Gardens, Chertsey. He had Black Hamburgh and Buckland Sweetwater Grapes, Violet Hative Peaches, Royal George Nectarine, Brown Turkey Figs, and Hero of Lockinge Melon, all of them good in quality ; but a close 2nd was W. H. Ellis, Esq., Clovelly, Hounslow. The best Black Grapes were from the Earl of Onslow, Clandon Park, Guildford (gr., Mr. H. W. Blake), presumably Prince's Hack Muscat; and the best white Grapes were Buckland Sweetwater from Mr. 1 hos. Osman. Mrs. Flacker, Coombo End, Kingston Hill (gr., Mr. Bolton), had the best Poaches in Stirling Castle ; and W. Cunard, Esq., the best Nectarines in Early Rivers. In Strawberries, Mr. J. Gibson, gr. to G. H. Watt, Esq., was 1st for two dishes with Royal Sovereign and President ; and Andrew Peaks, Esq., 1st for one dish with President. Messrs. Sutton & Sons special class for Vi getables was won by Sir Patrick Talbot, Glenhurst, Esher (gr., Mr. C. J. Waite). He showed Early Gem Carrots, Supreme Potatos, Peifection Tomatos, Magnum Bonum Cauliflower, White Leviath.n Onion, and Duke of Albany Pea ; all of these were decidedly good. E. H. Watts, Esq., Devonhurst, Chiswick (gr., Mr. Jas Gil son), was 2nd. Messrs. Carter's special class for nine dishes was also won by Sir Patrick Talbot, his prod.ee being equally good in this class. The Society's prize for the best twelve dishes of vegetables was well won by Sir Patrick. Talbot, Glenhurst, Esher (gr.. Mr. C J. Watte), the produce being most praiseworthy. The Rev. O. L. Powell, Wobutn Park, Weybridge (gr., Mr. A. Basile), was a good 2nd. Honora k y Ex H i BITS. Messrs. Fromow & Sons, Sutton Court Nurseries, Chiswick, displayed a group of Japanese Aceis in variety, and a pretty group of stove and greenhouse plants. Messrs. Jas. Veitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nursery, Chelsea, had a largo group of Roses in pots, backed by finely flowered plants of Hydrangea paniculata. From Mr. Jhhn Russell, Richmond Nurseries, was a beautiful group of variegated and handsome foliaged hardy plants in pots. There was considerable variety in this group, and the plants of which it waB composed were individually choice and well cultivated specimens. Cannae from Messrs. H. Cannell & Sons, Swanley, were gorgeous. There were about sixty varieties, and staged in a semicircular group they were the prettiest feature in the large plant tent. They were in 5-inch pots, and foliage and flowers were handsome. Messrs. Jackman & Sons, Woking, had a stand of hardy flowers. Mr. W. Spooner, Arthur's Bridge Nursery, had several boxes of garden and Tea Rosos, the pretty little Perle d'Or being very good and abundant. Messrs. B. S. Williams & Son, Upper Holloway, London, Btaged a group of Orchids, including many of those noticed in another column in the report of the Royal Horticultural Society's show ; and Messrs. J. Peed & Sons, Roupell Park Nurseries, Norwood Road, London, had tjieir group of Carnations previously noted at the Drill Hall./ * A group of greenhouse and hardy plants 'was shown by Mr. W. Thompson, Sheen Nurseries, Richmond. Mr. Amos Perrv, Winchmore Hill, London, N. , had one of the brightest and largest displays of hardy flowers. Messrs. F. Sander & Co., St. Albans, staged a group of new plants and Orchids, including an extraordinary fine form of C. gigas. The Guildford Hardy Plant Co., Guildford, staged a very pretty group of alpke plants in the form of an alpine garden, the design being carried out very finely. Messrs. R. Wallace &z Co., Colchester, showed Irises, Liliums, and hardy bulbous flowers; and T. G. Foster had a pretty col- lection oi sprays of Sweet Peas. Messrs. Barr & Sons, King Street, Covent Garden, showed hardy flowers. A capital group of Orchids was shown by Henry Little, Fsq., Baronshalt, Twickenham. This group included very fine varieties of Cattleya Mossiie, Cymbidium Lowianum, C. Rothschildianum, Ac., and many other species in excel- lent condition. Messrs. T. F. Rivers & Son, Sawbridgeworth, Heits, had an exhibit of fine and choice fruits, the most interesting being some splendid fruits of the new lato Peach, Thou. Rivers, even finer than those shown on thepreviousday at the Drill Hall. Then thero were Apples of 1897, and Apples ripened in 189S ; also dishes of choice Cherries, Nectarines, &c. Messrs. Cutbush & Sons, Uighgate, London, had a large group of Malmaison Carnations ; and Mr. B. R. Davis, Yeovil Nurseries, a group of tuberous-rooted Begonias. Mr. J. Hudsou, gr. to Leopold de Rothschild, Esq , Gunnersbury House, Acton, had an exhibit of fruit trees similar to the one he staged at the Temple fcdiow ; and some Nymphsea blooms from the same gardens were shown. THE LEEDS FLOWER SHOW. June 28. — An excellent display in nearly all the classes was made at the Leeds Show, held on the above date ; and the exhibitors having done their part, the only point at issue is the support afforded the Society by the public, which in this, as in every other floral exhibition is essential to ensu e the success and continuation of a show of this nature. Fruit. The chief feature in the eihibitlon was the very fine exhi- bits of fruit, which, although not extensive, were of excellent quality. The first in the ten dishes' class was the Earl of Harring- ton, Elvaston Castle (gr., Mr. Goodacre), whose collection comprised a good example of a Quaen Pine-apple, excellent Cannon Hall Muscat and Black Hamburgh Grapes, and a nice dish of Beauty of Bath Apple. For the best three bunches of Black Hamburgh Grapes, 1st, Mr. Goodacre, with shapely bunches; 2nd, Lady Beaumont, Carleton Towers (gr. , Mr. Nicholls); and 3rd, W. Sheepshanks, Esq., Winsley Hurst (gr., Mr. Large). In the class for three bunches of any other variety of black Grapes, the Earl of Zetland, Aske Hall (gr., Mr. Nicholas), was 1st, with good Madresfield Court ; 2nd, Sir J. W. Pease, Bart., Hutton Hall (gr.. Mr. Mclndoe), with Madiesfield Court, having good berries, that were rather lacking in colour. In three bunches of white Grapes, Lady Beaumont (gr., Mr. Nicholls) was 1st, with fine examples of Buckland Sweetwater, having large berries and bunches, splendidly finished ; 2nd, W. Sheepshanks, Esq. ; 3rd, Sir J. W. Pease, Bart, M.P. For six Peaches, the Earl of Harrington was 1st ; 2pd, J. D. Ellis, Esq. Six Nectarines, 1st, Earl of Harrington ; 2nd, J. D. Ellis, Esq., J.P. Scarlet-fleshed Melon, 1st, Earl of Zetland; 2nd, W. F. Pepper, Esq. For a collection of Tomatos, six dishes, a very interesiing class, the 1st prize was won by Lady Beaumont, whose col- lection had in it fine fruits of Polegate, Challenger, Frogumre Selected, &c. ; 2od, Lord Barnard, Raby Castle (gr., Mr. Tullett), who showed good fruits of Golden Queen, Golden Jublle*, &c. Groups, Open. The large groups in the open class were arranged generally with much good taste, and the committee is to be com- mended for providing a large tent with high sides, a point often overlooked. The 1st prize was won by Mcssis. R. Simpson & Son, of Selby, with an arrangement that was light and full of graco, and containing moreover many good plants; 2nd E. B. Faber, Esq. (gr., Mr. W. Townsend), the group forming a very charming whole, and comprising several nice pUnts of Cattleya, Odontoglossum, Lilium, and well coloured Crotons ; 3rd, Mr. J. S. Siiarpe, Almondbury, with another light arrangement carried out with choice subjects. Groups, Amateurs. In these groups exhibitors were confined to within 7 miles of Leeds. The 1st prize in this competition was taken by Fairfax Rhodes, Fsq. (gr., Mr. R. Mason), with an original and tasteful, nicely finished arrangement ; 2nd, C. F. Tetley, Esq., We&twood (gr., Mr. J. Eastwood); 3rd, M. Kitchen, Esq. (gr., Mr. A. Gamble). Ferns. The best sii exotic species, 1st, Fairfax Rhod s, Esq. (gr., Mr. R. Mason). The best six hardy Ferns, Fairfax Rhodes, Esq. Pelargoniums, though not shown in great numbers, were of good quality. 1st for six show varieties, Mrs. Tetlbv, Westwood. Three show varieties, 1st, Mrs. Tetlev, Fox Hill (gr , Mr. J. Eastwood). The best six Fuchsias were shown by Messrs. R. Simpson & Son, Sulby ; and the best specimen greenhouse plant was shown by the Marquis of Zetland, and the second best by Mr. J. S. Sharp; E. B. Faber, Esq , was 1st with a fine specimen Cycas. The best six ornamental foliago plants were thbso from tho Marquis of Zetland's garden ; and the second best from Messrs. U. Simpson & Son, Selby. Tho Marquis of Zetland had the best six stovo or greenhouse plants. For six Orchids in flower, 1st, E. B. Fader, Esq. (gr., Mr. W. Townsend), who showed a capital piece of Cat t ley a Mosbku, a good Odontoglossum crispum among othors ; 2nd, Mr. R. Eichel, Bradford; 3rd, Mr. J. Sunley, Monk Fryston. For a specimen Orchid, 1st, Mr. J. W. Moorb, Rawdon ; 2nd, Mr. R. Eichel ; 3rd, E. B. Faber, Esq. Gloxinias wore very fine indeed, good plants in handsome varieties being in evidence. The 1st prize for six plants went toC. J. Rushworth, Esq., IIorsforth(gr., Mr. T. Smith) ; 2nd, S. Whitaker, Esq , Horsforth(gr., Mr.B. Mollett). ItOBEb. Roses wero fine in quality, and in fair numbers. In tho cla*s of forty-eight distinct varieties ; 1st, Mo-wrs. Dickson & Sons, Newtownards, whose collection included splendid blooms of The Pride, Liberty, Catherine Mermct, Ulster, and Rubens. Messrs. Harknkss & Sun, I odale, showed good examples of La France, Capt. Christy, Merry England, &c. All the other classes of Roses were well filled with good varieties and excellent blooms. Cut flowers were very well shown in bouquets, the chief prize-winners being Messrs. Perkins & Son, of Coventry. The Committee did wisely in having as a judge for the bouquets and hand-baskets the Lady Mayoress of Leeds, Mrs. C. F. Tetley, who most kindly offered to award the prizes, and in so doing gave great satisfaction. Messrs. Clicran, of Altrincham, exhibited a grand collec- tion of Pieonies, including some good blooms of the up-to- date varieties ; these were interspersed with cut herbaceous flowers and decorative plants. Mr. A. J. Hall, of Harrogate, exhibited (not for competi- tion) a charming stand of cut-flower devices, which included some very original and beautiful combinations of colour, and showed great taste. The show was opened by the Lord Mayor of Leeds (<'. I\ Tetley, Esq.); and Mr. Clayton, in responding to the toast of " The Judges," at the subsequent luncheon, expressed the wish that the fine weather which bad favoured the opening might encourage the Leeds citizens to attend the show in numbers, and so ensure the success of what was undoubtedly a very fine exhibition. Plant Notes. TOCOCA FORMICARIA. Plants of this interesting Mela9tomad were exhi- bited at the last Ghent Quinquennial by M. Linden, under the name of Miconia vesicaria, and one of them has recently been kindly presented by M. Linden to Kew. The genus Tocoea comprises some thirty species of tropical shrubs, all natives of South America. In general characters they resemble tho familiar Cyanophylluin, but they differ in havii.g smaller, hairy leaves, and, in regard to the majority of them, in having a pair of bladder-like projections on tho petioles or at the bate of every loif blado In some of the species those "bladders" are an inch lung, and nearly as much in diameter. T. formi- caria is a shrub 4 to 6 feet high, with opposite lanceo- late leaves, 8 inches loDg and 2 inches wide, gloss; - |.reen, and covered with short, erect, soft purplis'i hairs ; the bladders are as large as Horse-beans, green and hairy, entrance to them being through a pair of holes at the base of the midrib on the underside of the loaf. It is supposed that these bladders serve the Bame purpose as the large hollow spines on the bulls' - horn Acacia, namely, as an abode for ants, which in their turn protect the plant from browsing and other enemies. Whatever their use they are very remark- able in appearance, and the plant is worth a pla e among stove-shrubs on this account alone. II'. W. Law Notes. * _ IN BANKRUPTCY. Re Thomas Fox, Fi.oiust, Penzance. The above-named debtor appeared for his adjourned public examination at the Truro Bankruptcy Court recently before the Registrar. Replying to ques- tions put by the Official Receiver, the debtor denied that he neglected his business in order to go about the country as a local preacher. He always understood that tlower-growing was a very profitable thing, and that it was not necessary to know the business. After he went into the business he dis- covered that he had made a mistake, and tLo result of his trading was, that he had been brought to his present position. Ho could only say that his deficiency of £1400 had gone in payment of bills, and for labour done. He had had one transaction with a money-lender. He borrowed £20 10s., and signed a promiseory-Boto for £26 10s., to be paid at the rate of £5 per month. He paid one instalment of £5\ and had a writ served upon him for the balance, in- curring a further charge of £'i 10s. The debtor was eventually allowed to pass his examination. Trade Notice. The firm of W. L. Lewis & Co., Orchid Importers, of Southgate, London, has been dissolved. The business will in futura be carried on by Mestrffl ytanley-Mobbs & Ashton at the same address. V July 2, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 19 KIRKE'S PLUM. I find this Plum generally takes high rank as a dessert variety on the exhibition table. It is uuiver- eally acknowledged to be one of the most delicious Plums iu cultivation, and it cime to my notice the other clay that in a large garden where Plums are extensively grown, Kirke's has good crops, but on Ihe wall and in the open as standards, the same could not be said of any other variety. Probably it? hardy character and vigorous growth may account iu some measure for its fruitfulness in a season when the Plum crop is qui'o scarce iu many places. Though Joseph Kirke's name will go down to posterity as associated with ih's Plum, he did not raise if, though ho did a great di al iu the direction of getting it cultivated. It has been in cultivation mauy years, as I find it in a list of Plums published in 1S17. Kirko died in 1864, at thi' great age of 9(3 years. Dr. Hogg states in his Fru.il Manual that this Plum was first introduced by Joseph Kirke, who had a nursery of 6 or 8 acres of gruuud at Smith Kensington, which was in part sur- rounded by the walls of Cromwell's garden, and occupied a part of tho site of the pres:nt Natural Hist"ry Museum i aud from this nursery came many or the trees which were planted in the orchard of tho old Cliisvick garden. Housed to exhibit from this nursery at the early meetings of the Royal Horti- cultural Society, collections of Apples aud Pears, and was a regular attendant at the meetings. Kirke once stated that he firtt Faw the Plum which bears his name on a fruit-stall near the Itoyal Exchange, aud that he afterwards Jpund that the trees producing the fruit were in Norfolk ; he foun 1 them out, obtainod grafts, and propagated it, thus bringing it into cultivation. Dr. Hogg's account of what he terms its true origin was iu the grounds of Mr. Poapart, then a market gardener at Brompton, and about the spot occupied by tho lower part of (green's Gate, where it sprang up as a sucker to a tree which had been planted to screen a building. The name of Kirke is also associated with several Apples, such as Scarlet Admirable (a synonym of Ilollandbury), Golden lieinette, Leni' n Pippin, and Lord Nelson ; though it is doubtful if he actually rai-ed any of them— certainly not Lemon Pippin, as mention is made of that variety about the middle of the eighteenth century, and was in cultivation, no doubt, maoy years before. Kirke retired from business about 1845, and became an inoiate of Huggin's College at Northfleet, where he died. In the early part of the present century, Brompton was famous for its well- cultivated nursery-grounds aud gardens, an 1 they are not quite extinct yet. It. D. The Rosary. ROSES IN SCOTLAND. Many rosarians in the South may he glad to hear how the northern Roses have fared, and what are our prospects in regard to the flowers. To this end I have cut out of the Scotsman of June 21 "R. M. O. K.'s" timely remarks aud useful hints. It is also a good omen for a great extension of Kose-culturo in the Xorth, for which there is ample room, to find the Daily Scotsman discussing the season of Roses, under the yet bolder heading of "Science and Nature" D. T. Fish, 12, Fcltcs Row, Edinburgh. ["R. M. 0. K." in our contemporary, after discussing much that applies to Rose-culture in all puts of these islands in the matter of planting, manuring, pruning, selection of varieties, enemies of the Rose, and endorsing the general lament that Mareehal Niel is too Under for Scotland, gives his opinion of the present as a Rose season. He pays " It has up till now been a bad Rose season. The early spring growth, strong and vigorous, was arrested by tho frosts and cold winds of April and May, with the result that generally the plants have a shrivelled and unhealthy appearance. As a further consequence of this long-continued check, the bushes are infested with green-fly and Rose-grub. In the West of Soot- land these unfavourable conditions are only present iu cold, exposed situations, and flowers will not be much behiud the average ; but in the East, except in protected localities, thore is every likelihood that the Rose will this year be a failure." Ed.] Professor Ferdinand Cohn.— This distin- guished botanist died suddenly at Breslau, ou Saturday, June 25, of heart disease. He was born iu 1828, and obtaiued the chair of botany at Breslau University iu 1859, in succession to Dr. Goep,,ert. His best-known work is entitled Die Pjlanzr. Iu recent years he had laboured with success in tho field of bacteriology, and he wrote a book on The Development of Microscopic Ahjic and Fungi, showing the destructive action of parasitic fungi aud bacteria. — Times. Markets. CO VENT GARDEN, JUNE 30. We cannot accept any responsibility for the subjoined reports. They are furnished to ub regularly every Thursday, by the kindness of several of the principal salesmen, who revise the list, and who are responsible for the quotations. It must be remembered that these quotations do not represent the prices on any particular day, but only the general averages for tho week preceding the date of our report. The prices depend upon tho quality of the samples, the supply in the market, and the demand ; and they may fluctuate, not only from day to day, but often several times in one day. Ed. ) Cut Flowers. — Avkra< s. d. s. d. 3 0-40 0 6-00 Wholesale Prices. Arums, 12 blooms Azalea, doz. sprays Carnations, pr. doz. blooms ... Eucharis, per dozen Gardenias, per doz. blooms Gladioli, white, doz. sprays Lilium Harrisi, per dozen blooms ... Lily of the Valley, dozen sprays .. Maidenhair Fern, per 12 bunches ... Mignonette, 12 bun. ■ 3 0 4 0 16-30 0 S- 0 9 3 0- 0 6- 4 0 2 0- 8 0 4 0 Orchids : — Cattleya, 12 bms. Odontoglossum crispum, 12 bm. Pelargoniums, scar- let, per 12 bun. — per 12 sprays ... Roses, Tea, per doz. — yellow (Pearls), p r dozen — pink, per dozen — Safrano, p doz. — red, per dozen Stephanotis, doz. sprays , Tuberoses. 12 blms. s. d s. d. 4 0- 0 4- 0 6- 6 0 0 6 1 0 1 0-2 0 3 0-60 10-20 2 0-40 1 6- 1 0- 2 0 1 6 Orchid-bloom in variety. Plants in Pots.— Average Wholesale Prices s. d. s. d. Adian turns, p. doz. 4 0-12 0 Aspidistras, p. doz. 12 0-30 0 — specimen, each 5 0-15 0 Azalea, per dozen . 24 0-36 0 Calceolaria, per doz. 9 0-12 0 Coleus, per doz. ... 4 0-60 Crassula, per doz... 12 0-18 0 Drachmas, each ... 10-76 — various, p. doz. 12 0-24 0 Ericas, various, per dozen 12 0 30 0 Evergreen shrubs, in variety, p. doz. 6 0-24 0 Ferns, sm ill, p. doz. 10-20 — various, p. doz. 5 0 12 0 Ficus elastica, each 10-76 s. d. s. d. Fuchsias, per doz. 6 0-90 Foliage plants, per dozen 12 0-36 0 Heliotropes, p. doz. 7 0- 9 0 Hydrangea various per doz 10 0-24 0 Liliums, various, per dozen Marguerites, p. doz, Mignonette, p. doz. Palms, various, ea. — specimens, ea. Pelargoniums, doz. 12 r-18 0 Rhodanth, per doz. 5 0-60 Scarlets, per doz. Spireea, per dozen 12 0-31 0 (i 0-12 0 4 0-60 2 0-10 0 10 6-81 0 4 0-8 0 6 0-90 Apples, Tasmaniau, cases, various, comprising Sc. Nonpareil, and F. Crabs Apricots, per box... — baskets Bananas, bunch ... Cherries, English, white, sieves ... ■ blacks — French, sieves box Figs, per dozen ... Grapes, English, Hamburgh, per lb Fruit.- Average Wholesale Prices. s. d. s. d. s d. s. d. Grapes, Belgian, lb. 0 10- 1 0 — Channel Isles, per lb. ... 10-13 — Muscats, perlb. 16-26 18 C-22 6 Gooseberries, per 0 7- 1 36 - 8 0-10 0 3 0-50 4 0-50 3 6-60 2 0-30 3 0-50 0 sieve 2 0-26 Melons, each ... 16-20 Nectarines, doz. ... 4 0-80 Peaches, per doz. (according to size) 6 0-10 0 — Second quality 2 0-40 Pines, each, from... 2 0-40 Strawberries, perlb. 0 9-20 — Southampton, baskets ... 10-36 — Kent, pecks ... 3 0-00 Remarks.— The small quantity of big Asparagus was in great request to-day. Peas are coming on fast, and will, with the present sunshine, fill out rapidly, and prices may be expected less before the close of the we- k. Cherries are coming on ; some Black-heart at 4s. per sieve of 24 lb., which is the lecognised weight, were very good, bright, told, sound fruit. The supply of foreign vary a good deal, and some are very good, and the prices vary according to package, &c. Some splendid Pines are now coming, more of the Queen shape, but 1 am not able to decide the sort. Straw- berries have shown the lack of sunshine in poorness o colour, but they may now be expected to come on fast ; and I am informed that crops are good, as are also those of Cherries. Of course, fine weather has a marked influence on the ripening of tuese last two fruits. The supply of Goose- berries not being very heavy, prices have improved, but not very rnuch, seeing 2s. Qd. is the top price, Vegetables.— Average Wholesale Prices. s. d. s. d. s. d. s. d. Marrows, Vege- table, per dozen 3 0-50 Mint, per dozen bunches Mushrooms, per lb. Onions, Egyptian, bags — Green, per doz. bun Parsley, per dozen bunches Peas, Eng., white, per bushel bags — Blues, Hani- son's Glory, per b ishel Potatos, Channel Isles, Kidneys, cwt. — New Bedford... — St. Malo, cwt. — Cherbourg, cwt. — Old, per ton 110 0-150 0 Radishes, Round, breakfast, per dozen bunches (homegrown) . Salad, small, pun- nets, per dozen Shallots, new bun- ches, per dozen... Spinach, Spring, per bushel Tomatos, English , per lb — Channel Isles, per lb 0 6-08 Turnips, new Eng., per dozen Watercress, p. doz. bunches Asparagus, English, natural, home- grown, p. bun. — Worcester — English, Sprue, large bundles... — Argenteuil — Victoria — Foreigu, large, up to Artichokes, Globe, per doz. Beans, English (Dwarf), lb. ... — Channel Islands, per lb. — French, flats ... — Broad, sieve ... Beetroots, per doz. — p. tally of 60... Cabbage, open, doz. — open, p. tally... Cauliflowers, Eng- lish, per dozen Cress, doz. punnets Carrots, New, bun- ches, per dozen Celery, new, per bundle Cucumbers, p. doz. Endive, new, p. doz. Garlic, per lb. Horseradish, foreign per bundle Leeks, new, dozen bunches Lettuce, Cabbage, home - grown, per doz. — Cos, per score — ParisCos, home- grown, per dozen 3 0- 4 6 16 2 0 0 6 — 5 6 — 7 6 — 0 9- 1 6 0 6- 0 S 0 6 — 2 6-36 10-13 10 — 4 0-50 0 6 — 10-20 1 0- 1 6 2 6 13-16 2 0-30 0 8-0 10 5 0-56 16-26 2 6- 4 0 2 0-26 4 6-50 fi 0- 6 6 7 0 — 5 6-60 5 0-60 13-16 1 0- 2 0- 1 6- 0 4 1 3 3 0 2 0 1 3 2 0 0 9-10 0 — 0 8-10 1 3 0 0 4-05 0 3J-0 4 4 0- 0 10-1 0 4-08 Potatos. Kidueys, 6s. to 7^ ; Cherbourg and St. Malo, ~>s. Qd, to 6s. ; home-grown, 6s. to 10s. per cwt. Old Potatos, 110*. to 120s. per ton. John Bath, 32 and 34, Wellington Street, Covad Garde". SEEDS. London : June 29. — Messrs. John Shaw & Sons, Seed Merchants, of Great Maze Pond, Borough. London, S.E., write that the seed trade, as might be expected, is now quite stagnant, to day's market being bare of both buyers and of business. Offers of new French Trifoliuui arc corning to hand. Full prices are asked for Mustard and Rupeseed. Tbe Fale for Bird seeds is at present meagre. As regards Blue Peas and Haricot Beans there is no movement either in value or demand. Linseed is also quiet. CORN. Average Prices of British Corn (per imperial qr.), for the week ending June 20, and for the corresponding period of 1897, together with the difference in the quotations. These figures are based on the Official Weekly Return : — Description. Wheat Barley Oats ... 1897. 1898. Difference. .^.. -. per cwt. ; Peas, -id. to 5 1 S w . sjg SB* •o a > cS O "-1 3* ACCUMULATED. a OS — . 1 ® t-i H m 3 s CD U a »CO CO OS Oi-a d 00 oo a 01 •-5 a> o a o .a ■4 o ■M M £ • o n (D « £.2 2 fa w 9 §CN 2 a 5 > o fl ■4 CD O a « oo £-3 2 sa « £ o fl le- gs .£■■? O CD * s til) — p a 0 0 o-- u +* CD fa Day- deg. Day. deg. Day- deg. Day. deg. 101 lis Inch. Ins. 0 1 - 76 0 + 113 - 227 7 + 131 2S-0 13 28 1 0 aver 93 0 + S3 - 222 2 + 99 121 28 30 •J 2 + 111 0 + 115 - 216 3 4- 90 9-6 28 29 3 1 + 122 0 + 42 - 207 0 aver S3 9-2 35 31 4 1 + 115 i) + 27 - 215 0 aver S3 S-5 37 31 5 1 + 120 0 + 59 - 243 1 - 79 9-4 34 32 6 1 - 94 0 + 115 - 217 7 + 113 18-9 24 33 7 1 - 102 0 + 110 - 244 7 + 95 16-1 26 35 8 0 aver 111 0 + 83 - 150 4 + 92 14'4 36 38 9 2- 87 0 + 101 - 16S 9 + 121 17-2 25 31 100 aver 100 (I + 135 - 134 5 + 92 10-3 34 34 *,0 aver 111 0 + 188 - 93 5 + 101 11-6 38 41 The districts indicated by number in the first column are the following : — 0, Scotland, N. Principal Wheat-producing Districts— 1, Scotland, E. ; 2, England, N.E. ; 3, England, E. ; 4, Midland Counties ; 5, England, including London, S. Principal Grazing, &c, Districts — 6, Scotland. W. ; 7, England, N.W. ; 8, England, S.W. ; 9, Ireland, N. ; 10, Ireland, S. ; * Channel Islands. THE PAST WEEK. The following summary record of the weather throughout the British Islands for the week ending June 25, is furnished from the Meteorological Office : — "The weather during this period was very unsettled and rainy in Ireland, Scotland, and the north of England. In the south and south-east it was fine and dry during the earlier half of the week, but towards its close the rainy conditions extended to those districts also. Thunder and lightning occurred from time to time in most parts of the kingdom. " The temperature was slightly above the mean in ' EDgland, N.E. and E.,' the ' Midland Counties,' and ' England, S.,' and just equal to it in 'Scotland, E.,' 'England, S.W.,' ' Ireland, S.,' and the 'Channel Islands;' but in the remaining dis- tricts it was a little below the normal. The highest of the maxima were recorded during the earlier days of the period, when they ranged from 78° in ' England, S.,' and from 74° in ' England, E.' and the ' Midland Counties,' to 69° in ' Ireland, N.,' and 66° in 'Scotland, N.' The lowest of the minima, which were registered on the 22nd in Scotland, and on the 23rd in Ireland and England, ranged from 40° in 'Scotland, E.,' to 48° in 'England, N.W.,* and to 50° in the 'Channel Islands.' "The rainfall was more than the mean in nearly all dis- tricts, but was only just equal to it in 'EDgland, E.' and the ' Midland Counties," and was rather below it in ' Eng- land, S.' In the northern and western districts generally the excess was either very large or considerable. r " The bright sunshine was deficient in all districts excepting the ' Midland Counties.' The percentage of possible duration ranged from 3S in the ' Channel Islands,' 37 in the ' Midland Counties,' and 35 in 'England, E.,' to 25 in ' Ireland, N.,' and to only 13 in ' Scotland, N.' " Mr V* "orredpomk-nU Either way of using is An Old Slug and Worm-inpested Kitchen Garden: R. M. The heavy dressings of gas-limo in the autumn, followed by deep trenching, and leaving the surface rough, will do much to sweeten the soil, destroy slugs, wire-worms, and cause the dis- integration of the excessive amount of nitrogenous matter in the soil. This trenching should bo followed in February by a heavy dressing of quick- lime which should merely be dug into the soil one spit deop, and all sowing and planting be post- poned for one month at least. No stable or other manure should be applied to the laud for the first season, but if fouud necessary for pushiug on cer- tain crops suitable artificial manure may be afforded. The next year the land should be trenched two spits deep, that which is the middlo spit (2nd) being brought to the top, and the next year the spit at the bottom of the trench that was first thrown down may be , brought to the middle position. A moderate amount of quick-lime may be applied to such parts of the soil as have not been dressed. Bookbinder: A. O., Lower Edmonton. 'Mr. Zaehns- dorf, Cambridge Circus. Grapes : H. G. Your Grapes are badly spotted ; we fear it is too late to do anything, but you might try syringing them with liver-oi-sulphur, 1 oz. to 1 gallon of water. Remove every spotted berry and burn it. Insect : W. T. The beetle in your Dahlias is one of the weevils, Ornithorhyncus picipes. There is also a green caterpillar, which we cannot name. Long-handled Shears : If. right. Mushrooms : /. Gachelin. The bed, as you say, may be filled with spawn ; but how do you know that it is living spawn now ? It may have exhausted itself in running it the bed, and from lack of heat, moisture, or nitrogen, have failed to produce a Mushroom. We should not suppose that you will gather true Mushrooms from it after this lapse of time. Better start anew. Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in this issue are requested to be so good as to consult the following number. — R. A. Astrantia major. — J. T . L;ulia grandis tenebrosa. — L. P. 1, Leucothoe axillaris ; 2, Spireea Lindleyana ; 3, Polygonum complexum (?), no flowers; 4, Cornus sibirica ; 5, Hippophaerhamnoides ; 6, Polygonum cuspidatum. W. if. 1, Inula glandulosa ; 2, Hibiscus sinensis ( Althea frutex) ; 3, Anthericum lineare variegatum. T. D. Limnanthes Douglasii. — IV. T. B. 1, Oncidium flexuosum ; 2, Ixora coccinea ; 3, Bam- busa Fortunei variegata; 4, Goldfussia (?), send in flower ; 5, Clerodendron squamatum ; 6, Carex variegata ; 7, send in flower ; 8, Maranta Makoy- ana. — J. If. Ixia, one of the garden forms. — G. Dance. Tamarix germanica ; a shrub much planted at our seaside resorts. — J. IV. Bar- barea vulgaris, double flowered ; Allium Moly. — /. E. B. Eucalyptus globulus. — M. A. 1, Cratae- gus Aronia ; 2, Ulmus campestris ; 3, Cornus sanguinea, common Cornel. — A. W. Lophosper- mum scandens. — W. J. W., Carlisle. Hordeum jubatum. — W. P. Odontoglossum Coradinei, a natural hybrid of O. Lindleyanum. — J. D. B. 1, Calycanthus fragrans ; 2, Cypripedium Parishi ; 3, Dendrobiumclavatum. — R. T. N. Both the Cattleya Mossia; and C. Warscewiczii (gigas) are good varieties, but uot sufficiently distinct to be of extraordinary value. — A . L. P. Dendrobium mos- chatum. — Rascher. ^Egopodium Podagraria ( Gout- weed, British). — Rev. W. G. P. The cut leaved Lime, a garden variety. — A.W.B. Heracleum gigan- teum.— C. H. W. Stachys lanata. — G. S. Abelia triflora. — Ilowcrs secured to luggage-labels. 1, Inula glandulosa ; 2, Campanula glomerata ; 3, Erigeron caucasicus ; 4, Sedum tortuosum variegatum ; 5, Poa trivialis variegata ; 6, Phalaris aruudiuacea variegata. — Neve Brothers. Veronica pinguifolia. /. McL. 1, Pernettya mucronata ; 2, Olearia ? next week. — Tempus I'ugit. 1, not found ; 2, Strobilanthes Dyerianus ; 3, Anthericum lineare variegata ; 4, Erica obbata ; 5, Erica ventricosa coccinea minor. — A". & T. Salvia aclarea. Peaches : Anxious. The fruits sent have the appearance of being at some earlier period attacked in a slight degree by mildew. The effect has been to arrest the extension of the skin at some places, which then, under pressure of the sap, bursts. You can do nothing now, but you ought to guard against an attack another year by using some of the recommended antidotes. Peas : /. D. See reply to " Cymro " in our issue for last week. Rose : /. Chapman cfc C. Pearce. We cannot undertake to name varieties of the Rose ; send it to some large grower of Roses. Seedling Carnation : If. E. In form as good as its parent, Miss Joliffe, and in colour a rich shade of crimson. Certainly worthy of being preserved, either as a border, or winter-flowerer under pot- culture. Solanum jasminoides: E. T. M. Would be hardy against a wall iu mild winters, or with very little protection. It is hardy iu the Isle of Wight. Spotted Pelargoniums: Long. The spots on the leaves are due to a fungus (Ramulariageranii). The foliage is disfigured, but otherwise the disease should not be serious, and with care is easily got rid of. The remedy is spraying with Bordeaux Mixture in the " modified " form, described in this paper in August, 1897. Spray frequently this season, and burn the leaves as they fall or become much discoloured. Look carefully after next season's plants to have them hardened off before planting. Strawberry Culture in Pots : W. F. V. S. The runners should be now rooted on small squares of turf that has been a year in stock, or in 3 -inch flower- pots, with one hollow piece of crock at the bottom, and filled with a similar kind of loam, made very firm by hand. Read last week's cdendar for " Fruits under Glass," and con this calendar from time to time for hints as to treatment. You would be enabled to pick early fruit say in March and onwards from plants placed on the two upper shelves of your glasshouse. The description of Strawberry culture in pots is too lengthy for us to insert in this column. Tomatos : Subscriber. Undoubtedly attacked by a fungus, probably Peronospora, but we cannot be sure from a cursory glance. There are so mauy fungi which attack the Tomato. Try syringing with weak Bordeaux Mixture, or with liver-of- sulphur ^ to 1 oz. to a gallon. — Chcshunl. Probably a form of the "Sleepy Disease," described by Mr. George Massee, Gardeners' Chronicle, vol. xvii. 1895, p. 707. No cure. Clear out root, top and soil, and char tho whole of these. Vines : A. R. N. Keep the heat at not less than 60° at night, and 75 to 8U° by day, and all'ord air more or less in volume according to the weather. This matter will require unremitting attention on most days, as changes are frequent, and the thermometer should be constantly consulted. Do not syringe the Vines, but maintain moisture in the air by wetting the paths and border several times on fine days, scarcely at all on dull one3, and do not close the house at any time unless more or less humidity be afforded. Buy a manual on the Vine. Vines not Fruiting: A. B. The shoots sent have a most impoverished appearance, and we should suppose that from some cause or another, the Vines have lost their chief feeding-roots. Examine the border in several places, near to and distant from the Vinery, and send us samples of the roots and the Boil, both from near the surface and li to 2 feet deep. Communications Received. — A. K. B. — T. Foote. — F. A. W. _J. H. M D. T. F.— C. T. D.— E. Webb & Sons.— J. L.— A. H.-R. D.— A. B. C— H. R.— G. Woodgate.— E. I!.— W. J. B.— R. M.. Newbury.— J. O'B.— E. U.— .1. J. W.— F. P.— C. de B.— F. A. W., Vermont.-A. K. B.— E. A. W., Florida. Photographs, Specimens, Etc., Received.— J. B.— Lady H. — F. F. CONTINUED LARGE INCREASE in the CIRCULATION of the "GARDENERS' CHRONICLE." Important to Advertisers.— The Publisher has Ike satisfac- tion of announcing tluit the circulation of the "Qardtn&rtf Chronicle" has, since the reduction in the price of the paper, MORE THAN DOUBLED, and that it continues to increase weekly. Advertisers are reminded that the " Chronicle" circulates among Country Gentlemen, and all Classes or Gardeners and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large Foreign and Colonial Circulation, ami that it U preserved for reference in all the principal Libraries. July 9, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. GRrc THE SATURDAY, JULY 9, 1898. THE CHRONICLE OF A LITTLE CORNISH GARDEN. TUNE. — Of course, I am more interested in If my young Rose-bushes than in any of the other plants now glorious. Not that I have any sympathy with that gardening system which has the exhibition-table ever ahead, of which Rose-growing is but too often an ex- ample. The Rose, however, is so full ot associations, both literary and personally remi- niscent, that it must always possess an interest possibly beyond that which its beauty would win. Eor, great as is the beauty of the Briar- Rose and some other single-flowered species, and graceful as is the natural habit of their growth, I fail to see either any special beauty of form possessed by the mass of hybrid- perpetuals, or the smallest element of grace in their habit as usually — and to some extent perforco — grown in the garden. They fre- quently afford an example of the lust of the florist (who is sometimes but a market-gardener who has missed his vocation) for substance and size at all costs. Nevertheless, I grow a fair number, and, as I have said, am espe- cially interested in them, but not, I fancy, from the same point of view that I admire the beautiful buds of Madame Berard, the exquisite flowers of the Red Damask (one of the most deliciously-scented and delicately-coloured of all Roses), or the free growth and abundant bunches of white flowers of Felicite-Perpetue, climbing a post by strides and bounds. There is, however, one characteristic which gives the Rose a special interest and value, and that is, the practically general possession of fragrance. What is not generally recognised in thinking or speaking of the Rose's scent is its heteroge- neity. Scarcely two Roses smell exactly alike, and whole classes are marked off by their distinc- tive odours. Moreover, it is not the flowers alone which are thus characterised, but in many cases the foliage also . This shows itself especially in the Sweet Briar and the valuable hybrids derived from Lit. Every garden should find room or some of these sturdy Penzance Briars, and I shall certainly plant more varieties next autumn. Last November I planted two kinds — Anne of Geierstein and Lady Penzance, both of which have already borne dozens of flowers — the former dark crimson, the latter, as one would expect from its ancestry (its parents are Sweet Briar and Austrian Copper), a beautiful cop- pery-yellow, with stamens of clear gold. These two have proved themselves very vigorous, the one as a climber, and the other as a bush, with delicately-scented flowers of great beauty, and with the scented foliage of the Eglantine, There are, I believe, less than twenty varieties, so that a complete collection can easily be obtained and grown. Although but a summer Rose, and, therefore, not long in flower, its foliage will yield sweet odour, and its hips beautiful colour for some months. It is in their habit of autumnal as well as summer blooming that the Tea Roses are so valuable. The same, of course, applies par- tially to most of the hybrid porpetuals ; but for the most part their blooms are so massive and stiff that their artistic value is not comparable with that of the more loosely-arranged and fragile Teas. The Teas I have found to be the first to flower; and I mean to plant several along a rough trellis I have just erected, in order that I may enjoy these Roses and other plants grown freely and naturally. Threo of the best Tea Roses for a beginner to start with are Madame Berard, Gloiro de Dijon, and Belle Lyonnaise, all of which are hardy and vigorous, and all beautiful. In addition to those Roses I have named, I am especially pleased with R. spinosissima, the Burnet Rose, with characteristic bushy habit, and bearing hundreds of fragrant little creamy flowers ; R. Brunonis and R. moschata, two single white Roses with yellow anthers, both vigorous climbers ; and the fine white hybrid Moss-rose Blanche Moreau. I referred to the too vigorous growth of the Silene which carpeted my Rose border. I was at length obliged to pull it up in its entirety ; nor was I too soon, for it had already killed one of my small Toas and a little China Rose-bush. I shall, of course, try another carpet, to avoid the winter and spring bareness, which is the usual property of Rose-borders, but shall use either Primroses which bloom early, or Violas which bloom continually ; in any case, however, employing plants of strictly dwarf habit. I have two really fine masses of colour. The most brilliant is afforded by my Escholtzias, now at their extreme of beauty ; the other is given by some hundreds of Bride Gladiolus, a charming flower much grown in this district for the cut-flower market. I mentioned the fact that I have just fixed some rough trellis that I may enjoy the free growth of Rose and Clematis, Choisya and Jasmine, Ivy and Honeysuckle ; and also to afford additional shelter from winds and over- looking eyes. As I cannot do much permanent planting until the autumn I have sown some Scarlet Runners, Nasturtiums, Sweet Peas, and Canariensis, that the trellis may be temporarily draped until such time. This trellis will necessitate, or rather give tempting possibilities of, some new arrange- ments in my garden scheme ; and I have been deriving infinite pleasure from the consulting of catalogues, and the making of lists and plans. What tempting publications the florist's cata- logues are ! How many million hours have they filled with happiness, cheering the gardener with hopeful dreams and visions of loveliness which he may never realise (or may) P A collection of these catalogues almost con- stitutes a complete gardening library, and an encyclopaedia of present day horticultural science. When we have Barr's Daffodil catalogue, Backhouse's, Ware's, and Barr's lists of hardy perennials, Kelway's Catalogue of Paeonies, Delphiniums, and Gladioli, Douglas's Carnation booklet, Sydenham's lists of Pansies and Violas, Sutton's " Amatour guide to horticulture," and the general catalogues of Dickson of Chester, Dobbie of Rothesay, Caunell of Swanley, and Smith of Worcester, we are on the fair road to happiness— and an empty pocket. Then again consider the Rose-lists of the Pauls, Bunyard, Riyers, and the rest, and admire the fortitude of that man .who can keep his pen from hi.s cheque-book whilst he has a spare yard in his garden. Now that I have this trellis to plant, and some new beds and bordors to arrange for, I consult the catalogues with absurd persistence, and, as it appears to others, childish enthu- siastic interest. I take three or four catalogues in the trap when doing my rounds ; I prop a cataloguo against the cruet and one against the bread at breakfast. I mark, copy, and compare them ; I draw up repeated lists, and alter and modify them beyond recognition. In sober truth, it would be difficult to offer the gardening novice better advice than that given me many years ago by an old friend, Dr. Francis Mead (whose pen, during his short adult residence in England, was often used for the gardening press). I asked him what book he advised me— a gardening ignoramus — to read dealing with open-air flower-gardening, and ho gave mo this list: — Robinson's Hardy Flowers, Sutton's seed cataloguo, Barr's cata- logues of bulbs and hardy perennials. Ware's set of catalogues, and Smith's and Kelway's general lists. These catalogues mean great labour and much cost in their production, and they should be carefully preserved. For the most part, they contain accurate descriptions of the plants named, together with an account of their appropriate soils and treatment, as well as numerous illustrations — often artistic produc- tions of considerable value. The illustrations — mainly photographs — which accompany some of the recent catalogues of Barr and Ware, are very far removed from the stiff plain or glaring coloured prints which nurserymen formerly employed. It is unnecessary to say that we should send at least an occasional order in return for the pleasure and profit obtained in this way. It is unnecessary simply because the usual difficulty consists in preventing oneself from ordering the lot. Among other things which my new arrange- ments for the autumn include, is a definite bed of good self-coloured Carnations, instead of the rather scattered system of growing them which I have heretofore adopted. It is not advisable to mix Carnations with strong-grow- ing plants, and therefore I intend giving them a bed to themselves. I propose, however, to plant a few dozen clumps of Daffodils among them to brighten the bed in the spring ; but as the foliage of the Carnation is pleasant all the year, I do not anticipate any bare effect, and the lovely flowers are in any case worth a little sacrifice. At present the Pinks are acting as the Car- nations' forerunners, and very beautiful they are. The old white Pink is not easily to be beaten, either from the point of view of beauty, scent, or sturdy habit. Of the singles, I havo been most pleased with the rosy Cheddar Pink, which I have planted on the edge of a dry bank; and the more deeply-coloured alpine Pink, which requires a moister situation. I must not forget another Dianthus, now coming into flower, and that is the old and ever admirable and admired Sweet William (what a stupid corruption of the original pretty name " CEillet ' "). I have a mass of the strain called Auricula-eyed, the flowers of which have white eyes, surrounded by rings of various rich colours. Few plants are easier to grow, or better worth growing. The Spanish Irises have been splendid, the flowers being finer than last year, although the bulbs have not been moved for three years. Now that they can be bought so cheaply, no one need be without this most beautiful of all 22 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE [July 9, 1898. late May flowers. The so-called "English" Irises (Datives of the Pyrenees) are about to unfold, but little more than a rough idea of their colours is yet to be obtained. What a time the humble-bees are having just now ! All the flowers seem specially built for them. Columbines (I have flowered nearly all of them — golden chrysantha, creamy-blue glandulosa, yellow and orange Skinneri, blue and white alpina, scarlet and yellow cana- densis) ; Snapdragons, with exclusive trap- doors— " No admission except to strong humble- bees;" Foxgloves (which thrive in shade, and continue ornamental for weeks if the central flower-spike be removed as soon as it is past its best); Irises, Monkshood (another sbade-lover), and Campanulas, all are fertilised entirely or mainly by the humble-bee, and are specially con- structed to his taste, which we must pronounce highly-developed. The various species of Campanula afford beautiful summer furniture for the garden. The Canterbury Bell is the commonest, and one of the best kinds, though usually grown in its white and blue varieties only. Among other species, I have the white and blue Peach-flowered Bellflower (C. persicifolia), which often requires some support when in flower ; the sturdy C. pyramidalis, about the most satisfactory of all ; the vigorous pale-blue C. grandis, and two or three dwarf species in the rock-border — C. Raineri, a mass of large blue flowers, C. isophylla trailing over a large stone and bearing hundreds of light blue salvers, 0. fragilis, C. carpatica, and C. f>. P. WilsoD, a new hybrid with beautiful flowers borne on big stalks. The structure of the Campanula flower is full of interest. If we take a bud of the Canterbury- Bell and open it, we find an apparently homogeneous column of stamens and style rising from a fleshy base. If we take a flower which has recently opened, we discover that the stamens have withered and fallen to the bottom of the bell, whilst the style which still remains erect is seen to be covered with short hairs almost buried in pollen shed by the anthers when they embraced the style in the bud. This pollen is necessarily rubbed off by any large insects who visit the flower for the honey, which is produced by the yellow disc at the bottom of the style, enclosed by the triangular fleshy plates which form the basis of the now withered stamens. Between these plates are interspaces of infinite smallness, and even these are carefully protected by small hairs, so that honey-stealing by undesirable guests is not one of the Canterbury-Bell's troubles. In a still older flower we find the pollen removed from around the style, the hairs which hold it shrunken, and the style divided into its parts, which open outwards and expose a stigmatic surface for the reception of pollen brought by insects from other flowers. All my Campanulas I raised from seed without trouble. There are in the garden two clumps of self-sown annuals, which we find very useful for cutting — the blue feathery Love-in-a-mist (Nigella), and the pale -buff Crown Daisy (Chrysanthemum coronarium), both vigorous, and both beautiful. The perennial Daisies or Marguerites are also in full flower, a little plant of C. frutescens, which I planted out a few months ago, being already a sphere a yard in diameter, bearing thousands of large white yellow-centred flowers. The yellow variety Etoile d'Or is equally beautiful and vigorous. I have just bought and planted half-a-dozen other kinds, but they have not yet had time to flower. The]Shirley|Poppies'(themostbeautiful of all Poppies) are not yet making much show, but the delicately- coloured little Iceland Poppies are yielding hundreds of white, yellow, and orange cups ; and the gieat orientals are in full and gaudy glory. Sedum acre and 8. spathu- latum take the place of Alyssum, in producing bright spots of yellow in the border ; and a large bush of Featherfew also lightens up a view. Achillea tomentosa (which must have a dry spot), almost shades its much-divided foliago with bright yellow heads of flowers. The pretty Rock Rose (flowers of a day), are bright, with fragile flowers of delicate shades of every colour. They also must have a dry sandy soil if they are to succeed. The mauve flowers of the Mountain Daisy (Aster alpinus), are now at their best, and afford a shade of colour not abundant among summer flowers. The Sweet Peas (most valuable of all annual flowers), are beginning to flower freely, though the full effect of the hedge will not appear for another fortnight. The Pansies, Violas, andMimulus, are bloom- ing profusely, and rapidly f-preaditig ; the young Dahlias (Cactus, single, and ' siDgle Cactus varieties), and Chrysanthemums, are making progress ; and Roses, Hollyhocks, Potentillas, Pentstemons, Phloxes, and Asters all help me to see my way through a continuous show of flowers (not a continuous flower-show, thank goodness ! ) till November. Harry Moberls. New or Noteworthy Plants. ONCIDIUM MACRANTHUM TOWNSENDI, nov. var. This is the handsomest and richest in colour of any form of Oncidium macranthum which I have seen, and its flowers are also remarkable by their extra- ordinary tize, and by the breadth and uniform character of the sepaU and petals. The sepals are entirely of a rich red-brown, with a gold-coloured shade, the middles having a narrow brownish-purple band. The petals are bright lemon-yellow, with a dark purple blotch at the base of eacb. The wiugs of the column and base of the lip are bright mauve, the face of the column yellow ; the side-lobes of the lip maroon, and the reflexed frout-lobe reddish -purple tipped with yellow. The conspicuous crest is ivory- white, with two eye-like purple spots. It is a noble variety, purchased by its present possessor, E. Beckett Faber, Esq., Belvedere, Harro- gate (gr., Mr. W. Townsend), from the late Sir Titus Salt's collection as a very small plant, and now flower- ing for the first time. It was exhibited at the Leeds show, and was very much admired. Its owner and his gardener must be complimenled not only on having such a beautiful variety, but also on their skill in bringing it to its present high state of cultivation. James O'Brien. Orchid Notes and Gleanings. CATTLEYA WARSCEWICZII. Two remarkable and very dissimilar forms of this showy species, which is more commonly known in gardens as C. gigas, are forwarded by G. F. Moore, Esq., Chardwar, Bourton-on-tbe- Water. Both are very large flowers, the one of the typical form and colour, the chief variation being in the glowing light crimson-purple of the labellum, and the comparative smallness of the two cream-white and yellow blotches on the lip. The other is much darker in colour, and in general appearance has a slight suggestion of C. x Hardyana. The chief peculiarity of this is the colour on the sepals being flaked, giviDg the flower a varie- gated appearance. The middles of the sepals are white, flaked at the edge and on the reverse sides with bright ro=e-purple ; the petals are light ros6, flaked with purple, and the broad lip dark ruby- purple, with yellow reticulation at the base, and the usual two light spots on the die of the lip. J. O'B. Gkammangis Eli.isii and G. Rumphianum, &c, AT KEW. To those cultivators who are interested in these species there is a capital opportunity at the present time to see both of them in flower in the Orchid- house at Kew. Grown in baskets in moderate heat and moisture, these plants, imported probably some five or six years ago, have become well established in baskets, the thick mass of roots indicating the treat- ment afforded as being the proper one. Both possess stout flower-spikes, upon which the whole of the blooms fully open. In the case of Ellisii, some eighteen to twenty flowers are set on a spike about 30 inches long ; each flower is 2\ iuches across ; the ground colour is of a greenish-yellow, but this is almost hidden by innumerable small spots. Occa- sionally a small space has but a few spots upon it, there the ground colour is apparent. In the case of G. Rumphianum, the spike is just about 6 feet long, with flowers 3 iDchcs across, rather loosely set on some four feet of its leDgth. The two basal flowers have singularly developed, with but two sepals, an upper and a lower one, and two petals ; no lip is present, bo that one is reminded somewhat of the same peculiarity as occurs in Vanda Lowi, though in the case of this Grammangis, the colours do not differ from those on the remaining part of the spike. The colour is yellow, with heavy blotches of brown on each limb of the flower. The difference between the two flowers is readily observed, and to those who may be in doubt as to which form they may be growing or have in flower, a vitit to Kew would certainly Eettle the point. As the Orchids have been moved into fresh quarters, consequent on the pulliDg down of the old houses for the erection of new ones, it waB rather difficult to know where some of the species may have been placed. I, however, was pleased to notice among many others in flower a nice plant of Epiden- drum nemorale. This has been imported at various times in great quantities, and yet it is one that is as seldom seen as any species of Epidendrum with which I am acquainted ; here its pale rosy-pink flowerj were very prominent. Again, how seldom do we now see Aerides Lobbi ! and here it is in good condition, as is also Oncidium Harrisianum. But one of the gems in the Orchid- house is Spathoglottis Ixioides, a terrestrial species with Bmall, round bulbs and short, narrow leaves, the Bingle bloom on a stem some 3 inches long standing well up, and reminding me in every particular of the bright and attractive Promenia citrina, size, colour, and shape so closely resembling this, that I cm think of no better way of describing it. The singular Saccolabium gemmatum growing on a block with its small terete leaves, seems to be quite at home, as numerous growths are hanging about the block, and a good many spikes of its shell- like flowers, small in size yet very pretty, rose-colour and white being the prominent colours. Cattleya Eldorado alba, or crocata is also in flower ; this form is very pure, the yellow of the throat deep rich colour, whilst the whole of the limbs of the blooms are stout and of good substance. In a shady dell in the outside rockwork were good masses of the MocasBin flower of the States, Cypripedium spectabile, full of its white and purple flowers, and in other places masses of the eqally interesting Orchis foliosa. W. Swan. SCHOOL AND COLLEGE BOTANIC GARDENS. Every teacher of botany knows how difficult it is to get a section of his students interested in his sub- ject, if he is dopendent only on material prtserved in alcohol, or has no opportunity of taking Ihetn either out to the country or into a garden, where there is considerable variety of plants grown. It is quite a common experience to find that certain students can only be brought to take a lively interest in the subjoct by being led into it along what may be July 9, 1898.] THE GABDENEBS' CHRONICLE. 23 called the old route, that is, by first helping thom how to recognise one plant from another with the naked eye, before showing them how to distinguish one organ from another by means of the microscope. In other words, it is often quite necessary to inspire the student, hitherto without any sympathy for botany, with some of the enthusiasm which actuates his fellow, who since boyhood has been a naturalist, and has already advanced so fir as to have faith in his powers of observation with the unaided eye. A few of the largest manufacturing towns of Britain may be so smoke-begrimed as to render the cultivation of plants within them, or the growth of wild plants around them, almost impossible. Even in the worst cases, however, it is likely that, with proper skill, a sufficient series of plants could be grown for demonstration ; and a short railway journey will usually take the students far enough to find the hardier native plants in flower. In the great majority of towns the atmospheric conditions are Buch that a very considerable variety of plants can be successfully grown ; while, in their outskirts, a varied and healthy flora will be found. Assuming that 6uch desirable conditions can be had, there is still the important factor to be consi- No greater help to the attainment of this desirable object can be found than the establishment of a botanic garden in the near vicinity of the school or college. So patent are the advantages to be derived from such a garden, it is hardly necessary to state them. The teacher has the means of getting per- fectly fresh specimens for demonstration in the class- room. What is of more consequence, he is able to give the first lessons from the plants as they grow in the ground. As the weeks run on, he can direct attention to the successive changes taking place in the plants — the germination of the seed, the bursting of buds, the opening of flowers, the formation of fruit, the perennation of bulbs, rhizomes, &c. Further, the student has the opportunity of noting the phenomena for himself, of discussing them under jleasant circumstances with his fellows, and of veri- fying what, in time, he will take pleasure in reading of. By and by, he will learn to group the facta he has acquired, and will discover and apply the prin- ciples underlying the system of classification followed in the garden. The chief obstacles which prevent the more general formation of teaching gardens are: — The want of Buitable ground ; the want of funds ; and the want Fig. 6.— botanic garden, university of st. Andrews, (see p. 22.) dered, namely, time to study the plants. Botany would certainly be introduced into hundreds of Echools if time could be found to devote to it. Such a consummation would certainly be hailed with delight by university teachers of botany, who all know the great advantage it is to their students to have learned even a little about plants at school. The question whether botany might not with advantage be substituted for certain other subjects, or sections of subjects, need not be discussed at present. One problem, however, is certainly worthy of solution— can anything be done to render the study of plants of more educational value, while a minimum amount of time is consumed in its pursuit .' The subject is one which must be taught practi- cally. " Look at that Primrose ! " is the first injunc- tion ; not. "Read that page ! " Some one, of course, has to undertake the laborious duty of gathering and condensing, for the use of others, the published observations of many workers. The learner is not expected to take any part in this. It is assumed that the subject is introduced into the school or college curriculum because it is fitted to strengthen the powers of observation, description, and induction. If properly taught, it is calculated to do so, in the case of many students, when other subjects would either fail or be less successful. of special knowledge of plant species and their requirements. It is a mistake to suppose that wide acres, planted with trees and shrubs, and the erection of fine con- Bel vatories, are needed for our purpose. A very small piece of ground is sufficient for the school garden. It has been the good fortune of some, including the writer, to be able to exemplify this in practice. When the Lectureship in Botany in St. Andrews University was inaugurated, opportunity was soon granted by the authorities for the laying out of a Btudents' garden. The area selected lay within the histoiic grounds of St. Mary's College. Although only one-quarter of an acre in extent, it was found sufficient for the immediate purpose. A few weeks' work sufficed for its formation. It may be mentioned that it was opened on June 28, 1889, in the presence of a distinguished company, including Prof. M'lntosh, F.R.S., and the late Dr. Hugh Cleghorn, both of whom took a specially deep interest in its institution. The illustration (fig. 6) shows the general features and surroundings of the garden, the buildings of St. Mary's College, overtopped by the more distant tower of St. Salvator's College Chapel, in the background. As will be seen, the plots are quadrangular, running in parallel lines, and cut out of grass. They vary in length according to the space required by the plants chosen to represent the natural orders. The plan followed was based on Bentham and Hooker's Ocncra Plantarum. Tbe beds containing the orders were arranged iu five rows in the following manner: — 3 eti si o 03 V 5 S3 & S3 hJ w In O & J &: 3 « 3 , Ills. W W E-t < a E « x> -2 a o a s < s fc « a p o £ s S 1 » a | 2 a 2 2 a o o o o © 73 O M CM O •« 0 fti s o A > « o 8 i •§ O «l U A o 2 a e .9 2 3 J o m W t-1 ■< 3 a S a » a a CO <1 « <5 5 « o 8 8 a H ' X p. tx 3 K 3 2 W o fc< 8 a SM § 2 v rti * a A, Ti ..1 ■ :i > 3 u .2 .3 S £ ga >U«Od « « By this arrangement, the Dicotyledons are made to occupy completely the first four line^. The Polype- talse, commencing with the Ranunculacea;, occupy the first two lines ; the sequence here, and in the other lines, being from below upwards (south to north). The Qamopetake occupy the third line, and part of the fourth. The Monochlamydese fill the remainder of the fourth line. The Monocotyledons occupy a considerable part of the fifth line, followed by the Conifers, Ferns, Horsetails, Club-mosses, and Mouses. It does nut appear that a similar plan has been followed elsewhere. Much can be said for and against a linear arrange- ment of this kind. It may be urged that it is impossible, by this method, to indicate more than two bonds of relationship existing between the several orders, that is to say, with the preceding and succeeding orders in the lines. One should be satisfied with this, because no more can be Bhown, for any considerable number of natural orders, by any other arrangement, even where there is room. The fitting-in of plots into a kind of loose mosaic does not simplify matters if the space is limited. When the plots are placed in rows, their exact relative size is easily gauged, and they are readily laid out. It will be observed that one or two orders are included which are represented by trees and shrubs. It has been fonnd quite practicable to introduce these, judicious pruning having kept the specimens well within bounds, without destroying their illustra- tive characters. A Box-edged border round the wall, separated from the grass-plot by a walk, was planted with a variety of trees and shrubs, which have been allowed to develop freely. A garden of this size can accommodate at least 1,000 species, a number quite sufficient for the purposes in view. The plants here, being fairly closely pliuted, have to undergo annual thinning, and the utmost care has to be exercised throughout the growing season to keep species with running rhizomes from invading neighbouring territory. This aggressive habit is a fertile source of untrustworthine6s in botanical and other collections. It is not difficult to overcome in a garden of this size. 24 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 9, IS The permanent labelling of the plants is one of the minor difficulties of the work. The labels used here originally were of yellow Pine, with two legs of stout iron wire. The writing was done in fine black pencil, through a second coat of good white paint, after the first coat had been allowed to dry. The authorities, native habitats, and common names (when of ser- vice) were added to the botanical names. The renewal of the writing has to be attended to after a few years. This garden has proved to be of great service to the students, and there is every reason to hope that it will be extended when the handsome new Medical buildings now being erected, through the generosity of the present Lord Rector of the University, the Marquis of Bute, K.T., are completed. It is a far cry from the oldest Scottish University to one of the newest of the English Technical Col- leges. Under conditions as different as can well be imagined, a teaching-garden was laid out in connec- tion with the Yorkshire College, Leeds, in the spring of 1896. The ground available for the purpose was a wilderness behind the college. The vigour of the weeds there, and the very fair health of cultivated plants in the neighbourhood, gave the needful assurance of success. The City of Leeds is not without smoke and fog, and evergreen vegetation bears marked evidence of this. The safe plan, clearly, was to have as few plants as possible above- ground in winter. The space occupied by this garden is about one- sixth of an acre. As fig. 7, p. 25, shows, the plots are disposed in parallel lines, so far resembling the St. Andrews University Garden. On one side a gravel walk passes between treeB of considerable size, and on the other a brick wall separates the garden from a back lane. The wall waB covered with climbers, and a border, running between it and the grass was planted with decorative and other plants. After trenching and thorough eradication of perennial weeds, sixty cart-loads of good soil were spread over the surface, and firm turf laid down. Some of the plots, for example, those for Ferns, Heaths, &c, received special soils. As will be seen by the following table, the sequence of the families and orders differs materially from that in the foregoing table : — O P. Si CO t> cd « c 03 CO CJ cd p cd ft to cj cd 1 £ CO o cd & 01 o cd .2 ho ca 1 CJ cd u et CO CJ cd a etc a 30 8 a "3 o S3 CO cd 1 O > a fcj (i 3 o OB a — u M > o o rt PH ca CO n ■A Ph o S w o 0> O cd a a u cd a cj o ft G ■a a o 1 £ £ cd 1 CD etf p o u cd a cd - cu I .0 2 3 0) CJ cd u cd & cd a CO u M cd ,3 >> 8 CO CJ cd •3 CO CO cd CO o cd be cd r. cd O o a 1 bo o < Ph &H w o 0 'p t 01 o cd ft & o cj do cu cj U - a 0> o cd QJ CJ 3 CJ - a> % ft o cd u o H 5 cd ft o W w o w O r> « U CM pq y O « ::. 5 Si -. ^ o o cd 8 «J o CJ 8 T3 O ft o c CO cd - o bo >. .a o o £8 p § P | O cd ■v CO CJ cd — 08 i CO CJ cd CU CJ cd o cd !2 CJ cd o cd CI a Eh u (14 < -J CO O that there is now no perceptible interval between the last of our late Apples and our earliest into the market?, not fully bridged over by fine fruit from abroad. Experience. CIDER-MAKING IN FRANCE. It may be well to state, before describing the several processes of cider-making, that the quality of the cider wiil depend to a great extent upon the proper fermentation of the must or crude juice of the Apple. So fully is this recognised that it has given rise to the French proverb, " No good cider without good fermentation and good ferments." Several days after the must is placed in barrels, a sort of ebullition is produced in the mass, bubbles of carbonic acid are disengaged, foam or froth rise3 to the surface, and the lees or dregs of the juice settle to the bottom ; finally, the must loses its sweet taste, the sugar which is contained being con- verted into alcohol. This disturbance or transforma- tion is produced by microbes, which, seen under the microscope, have the appearance of small cells. These are the ferments. There are different kinds of ferments, as there are different kinds of Apples. One will produce a sweet cider, another a dry or "sharp" cider; one produces a fragrant, limpd drink, another gives a flat and turbid cider. There is, according to the United States Consul at Havre, still another kind of ferment, consisting of an aggre- gation of microbes, commonly knowa as "mother of vinegar," which, when introduced into cider trans- forms it into vinegar. In selecting the Apples care should be taken, for to make good cider it is above all necessary to have the proper kind of Apples. To sum up the qualities needed to produce good cider, it may be stated that the fruit should be ripe and fragrant, averaging from two to four per thousand of acidity, containing with some mucilage a notable quantity of tannin (3 or 4 per cent.), and a large proportion of saccharine matter, say 15 per cent. In gathering the fruit, care is taken to protect the Apples against mud or other extraneous substances, which, if introduced into the must, retards fermentation, and impairs tho quality of the cider. All rotten Apples are rigidly excluded, as it is con- tended that a few rotten Apples will affect tho flavour of the cider. The fruit being carefully selected, the next step is to thoroughly crush it. After crushing the Apples the usual practice is to place the pulp in uncovered vats or tubs, and leave it twelve or four- teen hours before pressing, stirring it meanwhile from time to time with wooden shovels in order to bring the mass into contact with the air. The modern cider-press consists of a circular cage with a bottom on which the pulp or mashed Apples are placed, and then pressed by means of a screw — at first slowly, then progressively until the operation is completed. When the pulp has been thus drained, it is taken out and placed in vats or tubs, where it is macerated with a certain quantity of water, say two or three gallons of pure soft water to 100 lb. of pulp, for twenty-four hours, after which it is subjected to a second pressure. In this way, from every hundred- weight of pulp, several gallons more of cider are obtained. The expressed juice of fruit, known as the must, having been placed in barrels, the next step is to obtain proper fermentation, the most delicate and troublesome process in the making of cider, and at the same time the most important, since upon it depends the quality of the product. The fermenta- tion of cider differs essentially from that of wine. In the case of wine, all the sugar ought to be completely transformed into alcohol by the ferments or fermentative microbes, which play such an important part in this process. For cider, on the contrary, it is necessary that fermentation be promptly established, and last only a short time, in order that the must may be clarified before the sugar has been entirely transformed into alcohol. The sugar which remains after the first active fermentation will still maintain a slow fermentation in the cider, which prevents it from becoming too acid and being transformed into vinegar. There are three conditions which largely influence fermentation, viz., tempera- ture, aeration, and the acidity of the crude juice. Temperature plays an important role in the process of fermentation. At 32° Fahrenheit fermentative germs cease to multiply and become inactive ; at a tempera- ture of 130° to 140° many of them die. It is between 68° and 78° that they are most activo. If therefore the temperature is too low, it will be necessary to warm the must in order to accelerate fermentation. This is done by heating a tmall quantity of the fluid to about 135° or 140° Fahrenheit, and then pouring it into the barrel. In France a specially-constructed warming apparatus {chauffe-cure) is used for this pur- pose. As regards aeration, oxygen is an essential element in the process of fermentation, and it is therefore necessary that the must be thoroughly aerated. The liquid is stirred from time to time, and a quantity drawn off now and then and returned to the barrel ; the bunghole is left open or stopped with a little cotton-wool, which admits the air, and at the same time excludes aDy injurious microbes that might find their way into the barrel. In spite of all pre- cautions, it sometimes happens that fermentation is retarded. This is the case when too many sour Apples have baen used, the result being an acid must. Some persons neutralise the acidity by throw- ing a handful of wood-ashes into the liquid, and then agitating it ; but the best makers think this manner of treating the must is apt to produce a flat cider without colour, and is, therefore, not to be recom- mended. They say it is better to avoid an excess of acidity by a propsr choice of fruit. One means of increasing fermentation, much used by the French cider-makers, is to add a small quantity of must made from the best Apples, to the indifferent must, which acts as a leaven to produce fermentation. The ferments of good fruit, thus added, set imme- diately to work and multiply the fermentition get ins 26 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 9, 1898. so rapidly, that the deficiency in the must to which it has been added is soon overcome, and a fresh and complete fermentation takes place. In like manner, a good cider may be destroyed by the addition of a bad ferment, often unwittingly added, by not taking care to thoroughly clean the instruments and vessels employed in the fabrication of the cider. In France, an artificial leaven, made from Apples of the best growth, is an article of com- merce, and is much used to correct deficiencies in must of a poor quality. A quart of this leaven, costing about 4s., will serve to improvo from 130 to 140 gallons of an indifferent must. This leaven, or artificial ferment, has been used with very satisfactory results for several years, and is apparently growing in favour with large cider-makers. After ten or fifteen days the fermentation ceases ; a densimeter introduced into the cider bIiows its specific gravity to be from 10-15 to 10-20 ; the liquor has become clear, the grosser lees settling to the bottom, and the lighter rising to the surface, so that the cider is, aa it were, between two layers of lees. ThiB is the time to draw it off. The cider having been drawn off into a clean barrel, undergoes, after a certain time, a second fer- mentation, very much less energetic than the first. When this second fermentation becomes feeble, and carbonic acid is no longer disengaged, the barrel is completely closed until the time arrives for using the cider, when it is again drawn off by a spigot or faucet. Cider is preserved well enough in barrels when completely full, but when the barrel has been partly emptied, there is danger of its degenerating in quality. This is so well understood in France, that when a certain quantity of the cider has been drawn- off, the remainder is protected by what is known as " Noel's Protector," much the same as a simple cover- ing or thin layer of oil, which excludes the air, and prevents the entrance of noxious microbes which would soon transform the cider into vinegar. Bottling cider has become a large industry in France. Good cider in bottles ought to be clear and sparkling, and when properly prepared is a popular table drink, not only on account of its pleasant and refreshing taste, but for the more important reason that cider is now regarded in France as the most hygienic of all drinks, much more, indeed, tnan the best of wines. Condensed from the "Journal of the Society of Arts." Notices of Books. Lessons with Plants, etc. By L. H. Bailey (Macmillan & Co.) TnE sub-title of this little volume is entitled " Suggestions for teeing and interpreting some of the Common Foims of Vegetation." We may imagine the teacher with his blackboard and his Apple- twig, and each pupil provided with similar twigs. The appearances of the twig are pointed out, and the inferences that may be drawn from them ex- plained. The pupil is thus first of all made to see, and then to reflect on what he has seen. Next day another twig is taken, less assistance is given by tho teacher, but the pupil is as before encouraged to see for himself, and to compare what he now sees with what he has seen before ; and so with the flowers and the fruits. This is an excellent way of teaching botany, or, indeed, any other natural science : the system is invaluable to the future botanist ; it is of the highest service as a mental discipline to anyone, whatever his future destiny may be. The illustrations chosen from buds of various natureB, and at variouB stages of growth, would form an excellent preparation for young gardeners. Indeed, the whole book abounds in suggestive state ments, the subject is treated with welcome freshness and it ia copiously illustrated with original illustra tiuns. The book is provided with index and glossary The California Vegetables in Garden and FIELD, by E. J. Wickson, A.M. ; Pacific Rural Press, San Francisco. (London : Gay & Bird.) " Exi'ebienoed gardeners from other states and countries soon find that their accustomed procedure fails of its wonted results : that the old times and ways of doing things are unsuitable, and that new rules of practice muBt be learned." This sentence explaius the purport of a book which is further entitled, "a manual of practice with and without irrigation, for semi-tropical countries." The subject, we are told, is " appalling in its intricacy," con- ditions of foil and climate in California being varied to the last degree, whilst practice must vary with them. However different the conditions, the prin- ciples must be the same. It is impossible to teach "practice" in the college class-room ; that must come from experience, but the principles that govern practice are best taught in the laboratory and class- room, and some hints aa to their application in the trial ground and experimental station. Market-gardening in California has had its vicissi- tudes ; it did not at first accord with the adventurous spirit of the day. Small growers near the cities, we are told, did well, but there was not dash enough about market-gardening for Americans, who, conse- quently, allowed the business to pass into the hands of Chinese or other emigrants. Great enterprises in live-stock, Wheat, wool, and fruit afforded opportu- nities more to the American taste than vegetable- growing. The American settler had incomparably more energy and industrial ambition than hiB prede- cessors the Mexicans, but he shared with them a liking for doing his work in the saddle, or on the seat of a riding plough, cultivator, or harvester. Hence, it has happened that the competition which the American grower has to tnoounter is depressing and discouraging ; but yet, says the author, the situation is not at all hopeless. " The foreigners are not, as a rule, progressive. They are frugal and industrious to an extreme, and they undertake to please their customers with variety as well as low prices . . . but it is quite easy to surpass them in quality by constant effort for improved varieties which they are slow to introduce, and to cheapen production by the use of horse-labour and improved tools, while they plod along with hand methods and appliances." The successive chapters of this book are devoted to generalities concerning climate, soil, irrigation, manures, and then to a dis- cussion of the appropriate methods of cultivation of vegetables in alphabetical order, from Asparagus to Turnips. In some districts cultivation and supply are con- tinuous throughout the year, as in the case of Beet, for instance, which can be sown at any time, and taken from the ground every day in the year, as can also Lettuce and Spinach, seasons being thus prac- tically unknown. In the mountains, of course, the conditions are different, and the practice resembles that of temperate and cold climates generally. In the case of Aubergines, which are much grown in California, we are seriously told "that it is not unusual to find at California fairs specimens of 6 lb. weight, while fruit of 2 and 3 lb. constitute common stock with the vegetable peddlers!" It must be remembered that the author is not speaking of Pumpkins but of Aubergines. When he comes to Pumpkins, or Squashes, weights of 300 pounda ! are mentioned. One farmer, whose truth and probity are vouched for by personal knowledge, had ten Squashes, the aggregate weight of which was 1 ton and 50 pounds. The largest of these weighed Bingly 225 pounds. From another, which weighed 210 pounda, the seeds were removed, "my boy (aged 16) then got into it, and I put the pieces together and completely closed him in. I then persuaded my 18-year-old daughter to get into it, and I closed her in, in the same manner. My daughter's weight was 110 pounds. I then put two 7-year old boys in at once. I then put my three little girls in at once ; they were aged respectively 6, 4, and 2 years, their united weights being 116 pounds. . . . The Squash was 3 feet 4 or 5 inches in length." The reader will please note, that we hold ourselves only responsible for the correctness of our copy ! Turnips and Kohl Rabi are not in favour, as they do not endure heat and drought, and are much sub- ject to funguB. Happily the stock-feeder has many other more serviceable crops. A chapter is devoted to canning and drying vege- tables, valuable resources in times of glut. Seed- growing furnishes another chapter. The seeds principally grown are Onion, Lettuce, Carrot, Beet, and flower-seeds, especially Sweet Peas. Among the remedies proposed for insects is one which might be tried with advantage ; viz., kerosene-powder, made by stirring a tablespoonful of the oil with a quart of pulverised gypsum or air-Blaked lime. It will be seen that although the book before us is specially adapted for Californian use, yet that its perusal may be strongly recommended to our own market gardeners, who will find in it many a hint, and much subject for reflection. WEATHER LORE ; a collection of Proverbs, Sayingp, and Rules concerning the Weather. Compiled and arranged by Richard Inwards (Elliot Stock, 62, Paternoster Row). This is a third, enlarged, and revised edition of a book which it must have been no small labour to compile. The "proverbs, curious rhyme3, quaint sayings, archaic siws, outdoor rules, and weather wisdom generally," have been culled from many countries, and are here (all in English) arranged and tabulated in a form useful for reference. Granting as an acknowledged fact our inability to precisely foretell what the future weather and climate will be, which coming winters will be severe, which summers most abundant in sunshine, and so on, we can, to some extent, make use of prophesie3 based on prac- tical ob;ervation which have been more or less fulfilled in the past. This sort of knowledge is based on general observation rather than on scien- tific details, but nevertheless has a value of its own. It is at least interesting to compare our predecessors' observations with our own, and if our conclusions prove different, they may lead to the detection of some error in calculation or deduction, and so, ultimately, to a more exact knowledge. Even " fossil wisdom,' as Mr. Inwards calls it, embodied in these old traditions, makes amusing reading ; and so also do the quotations about birds, beists, reptiles, and plants as weather-prophets. In fact, there is something here to please everyone. The careful student may compare the bits of wisdom, and balance one with another, and the occasional reader will find amusement in turning over the pages and picking out a gem now and then. Referenca to any required item is, as has been before said, made easy by the arrangement of the book, and a good index is a further help. In conclusion, attention should be called to the frontispiece, "depicting the clouds, according to the arrangements and nomenclature agreed on at tho recent International Cloud Conference. These beau- tiful representations of cloudland were taken dirsc' from Nature by Colonel H. M. Saunders, of Chelten- ham, and render the different aspects of the clouds with great accuracy and artistic faithfulness." The little pictures are, indeed, as charming as they are lifelike, and we again commend the book to all, whether they be much or little interested in the topic with which it deals. If it will not predict exactly when to carry an umbrella, it may, at least, solaco during a wet day spent of necessity indoors. Market Gardening. TOMA.T03 AT MR. WM. LAWRENSON'S NUR- SERIES, EAGLESCLIFFE FARM, YARM. We sent an account of a visit to this establishment three years ago to the Gardeners' Chronicle, describing Mr. Lawrenson's selected varieties of Tomato. We had the pleasure to look over his place a few days ago (June 16), and are now more convinced than ever that in his No. 3 Mr. Lawrenson is the fortunato possessor of a superior strain of Tomato. The plants at Eagleecliffe bear evidence that they are under tho care of experts, and it is quito a treat to see the plants in the different hou»es, on some of which the fruits are beginning to ripen, whilst on others the bunches are just beginning to form. The former are single Btems, 7 feet long, grown in 9-inch pots and plunged ; the stems are nearly ;,' inch in diameter, and are covered with bunches 8 to 9 inches apart. I noticed a number of bunches resting on tho July 9, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE, 27 rims of the pots, which proves that it is a free-setting variety. Another characteristic is the distinct double spike, in the buuch of which we saw a lot bearing from four to seven fine fruits each. Mr. LawrenBon informed me that he saved a quantity of seed last j ear from one buuch which weighed t lbs. I saw a number of bunches which will probably exceed 3 lbs. The fruits on the lower trusses of No. 3 show a little " pap " in the centre, but tbis disappears as the plants grow taller, and the fruit becomes quite smooth, of a bright red colour. The writer, who has grown this variety now for some time, remarked the distinct improvement which has been madj with this fine variety since he first saw it, which goes to prove what careful selection extending over several years is capable of effecting. Grown beside some of the sup- posed " crack varieties " last season, No. 3 was far superior to them ; we wonder what name Mr. Law- reason will ultimately bestow on this useful variety. I should be inclined to name it " Never fail ! " Great additions have of late been made to the glasshouses, and Mr. Lawrenson informed me that he will shortly erect a number of others. Visitor. Zoology, and Entomology ; Veterinary Science and Forestry. The complete course thus aims at fitting a young man to enter with intelligence into his work as a farmer, a gardener, or a forester. It should enable him to understand the greater part of tho work that he will see iu practice, and to study for himself any special subject that he may afterwards find to be of importance to him. A student who has satisfactorily completed the two years' course of study, and who has had the required experience of practical work on the farm or iu the forest, should find himself sufficiently prepared for the examination for the Diploma of the Highland and Agricultural Society. Numerous and varied evening classes are provided for those who are otherwise engaged during the day. A specially moderate scale of fees has been arranged. This will be indicated by the fact that the inclusive fee for the First Year's entire Course ia Agriculture is five guiaeas. Copies of the Syllabus are to be had from the Secretary, 3, George IV. Bridge, Ediaburgh. PASSION-FLOWER COMING ON A TENDRIL. The tendrils of Passion-flowers are considered to be abortive flower-stalks (see Masters ia Flora Brasi- lien&is " Passifioracea; "). That this view is correct is shown by the occasioaal preseace of flowers oa the tendrils, as showa in fig. 8. EDINBURGH SCHOOL OF RURAL ECONOMY. The prospectus of the Edinburgh School of Rural Economy for the Sesnon 189S-99 has now been issued. These classes have met with great success, and have been highly appreciated. In each of the last three years over 200 students attended the classes. The courses of instruction arranged for the Session 189S-99 are similar to those of last year. Their main features are : — 1. A Two Years' Curriculum of Day Classes in Agriculture and allied Sciences. 2. A course of Day Lectures on Forestry in the University. 3. Aa exteasive series of Evening Classes on Agri- culture and allied Sciences, embracing Horticulture and Forestry ; and 4. The usual Summer Vacation Classes for School, masters, which have been well attended. 5. A Month's Course for Farmers and Farmers Sons. The month's course for farmers and farmers' sons and others who cannot spare time for a longer course is a now feature. This course will be held in the month of December, when there is a lull in farm- work, and the instructioa provided is of aa eminently practical character. It embraces lectures on Soils, Manures and their Uses, Food and Feeding ; on the Elementary Chemistry of the Farm, Veterinary Hygiene, and Insect Pests, while practical instruction in joinery work is also to be given. The day classes extead over two Sessioas, each beginning in October and ending iu March. It is expected that those entering for these classes will have previously completed a good general school training. The work of the First Session, embracing Mensura- tion, Mechanics, Elementary Physics and Chemistry, Botany, Book-keeping, Drawing, and Handicraft, practically completes the preliminary education of the student, and gives him an adequate knowledge of the elements of the sciences that have a direct bearing on agriculture. At the same time his interest in the practical aspect of his work is maintained by such class exercises as those in measuring buildings and fields, in making drawing* of these to scale, in woodwork, aad in the application of physics in agriculture. The subjects of study in the Second Session are Agriculture ; Agricultural Chemistry, Botany, Fig. S.— tendril of passion-flower bearing a flower. Foreign Correspondence. THE WELWITSCHIA COUNTRY. I feel sure that some remarks about Welwitechia mirabilis will interest many of your readers. Three weeks ago I arrived here, corniDg over Spitzkopjes from Swakopmund to Salem, a place situated on the left border of the Tsoachaub (Swakop), a huudred kilometres eastwards from Swakopmund. I was impressed by the wonderful and luxuriant vegetation of the broad and low borders of that river, the most beautiful tree being the Ana tree (Acacia albida), now covered with ripe curled mealy pods, of which oxen aad goats are very foad. Maay trees that I mea- sured are 5 to 7 metres ia circumfereace 5 feet above the soil, aad 20 metres ia height. It is a pity that the wood is perfectly useless as timber, as it is soft, like Poplar-wood, and rots very eoon in the soil. Of other trees there are growing, mixed with Acacia albida, A. Girafl'ce, several fine specimens of a species of Ficus, with edible Peach-red fruits, and Tamarix austro-africana. In Salem there grows also a solitary Acacia horrida, which is so common in the whole Namaland, and a few steps from my small house, an old mission-station, a Date-palm planted long ago by tho old missionary, Mr. Bohm, residing now in Walfish-bay. Euclea peeud-ebenum (Ebony tree) grows only ia the dry tributaries of the Tsoachaub. The plauts of the black alluvial deposits of the Tsoachaub are among many others, a beautiful yello.v - flowered Codon, Cardiospermum (llalica- cabum '!), the perennial Cucumis ecirrhosus (a Water- Melon, with very 6mall elegant foliage, and bitter, yellow fruits of the size of a Bmall Melon) ; the common Cucumis Citrullus (Water-Melon), but excessively bitter, four other kinds of Cucurbitacese, three kinds of Cleome, a wonderful suffrutescent Digitalis, H foot high, with flowers like those of Digi- talis purpurea ; three Pedalinea), one of tbem 8 to 10 feet high, with long white flowers ; two Helio- tropiums, a frutescent, red-flowering Gossypium, a Gomphocarpus, a Celosia, four Cyperus, two Achy- raathes, two spleadid Sida, 8 to 12 feet high, a Lytbrum, a Leatibularea, three Tribulus, aad a host of other things, which I do not know at all. Of introduced weeds there are Ricinus communis (form- ing real trees), Nicotiana glauca, Portulaca oleracea, Veronica Anagallis, Chenopodium botrys, Polygonum persicaria, and Arundo Donax. Living only sixty kilometres distance from the locus clas6icus of the Welwitschia, I decided one day to go down to that famous place in order to collect flowers, or if possible ripe seeds of that vegetable wonder. Haillgamchab, the name of the place in question, is situated ou the left border of the Tsoa- chaub, which crosses the Namieb or deBert from east to west. Goiag dowa from the yellow sandy and hilly plain to the police station, which is situated under the Ana- trees of the Tsoachaub, I very soon found the first female specimen of Welwitschia. For eventual reproduction I send you au inflorescence of this as well as a male one, of which I found an enormous specimen not far from the former. Among all the hundreds of plant i that I found afterwards, I discovered not a single seedling which 1 could dig out in order to replant it at Salem. There are specimens with leaves 3 metres long and 2 feet broad, others which have divided themselves into two, three, or four heads. Not a single plant shows entire leaves, most of them are dry from the top as far as the middle, and all are lacerated longitudinally. Whether the fresh leaf is acuminate or obtuse, I cannot toll. Even in places where nobody has ever seen them the leaves are likewise lobed. The old cones of last year, of which I collected a great number, contained only imperfect or empty seeds. In a few weeks the seeds will be ripe, and thea I shall go down again to Haillgamchab to collect as many as possible of them for distribution among botanical institutes. Welwitschia seems to require more water than is generally believed, as its roots sink very deep into the crevices of the granitic rocks, as well as into loose deep granitic sand, where there is some moisture almost during the whole year. I think it will succeed in a Cape— or succulent-house — like those at Kew, or in such a situation as Comm. Hanbury's garden at La Mortola, or the garde'ns between Mentone and Nizza. Before I saw the Welwitschia in its home I supposed that it lived in places that are perfectly uninhabitable by other plants. This opinion I must state is an error. I founl in its company plants that are scattered almost over the whole country, as Cleome, Acacia Giraffe, two Zygophyllums, two Papilionacea;, several Acanthacea?, Aristida, and others. As it very seldom rains in the Namieb (often not for several years), it is aot astonishing that I could not find seedlings of Welwitschia. The seeds require, I suppose, at least one heavy rain for their germination ; the dew can hardly be sufficient for this process. K. Dintcr. JUNIPERUS SINENSIS. This is a form of a species of Juniperus in Messrs. Sander^' establishment, like japoDica, in which the pri- mordial leavesalone are present ; though the shrub has attained a considerable size, no trace of the true foliage has as yet appeared. The leavesareiu four regular ranks 28 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE, [July 9, 1898. eachleaf linearoblong, somewhat acute, 5— 6 mill. lODg, of a beautiful glaucous blue on the upper surface. In its present Btate it is highly ornamental, and has a strong juniperine odour. NOTES FKOM THE NETHER- LANDS. AT~the Botanical-Zoological Garden at The Hague, I noted a Kleinia repens (Senecio repens) from the Cape, with pauciflorous capitules in corymbs, and which florists should cultivate and use more generally; the free-flowering Fuchsia Mme. Rundler covered the side of a greenhouse with bloom ; Tacsonia Van Volxemi, a hundred choice varieties of Caladium, Cymbidium Lowi, with thirty floral racemes from 3 to nearly 5 feet long ; and other choice plants. I also admired a fine collection of Vanda, including choice and well-cultivated varieties, probably unique in any public garden. In the Leyden Botanic Garden, Caladiums are grown thus : they are at first kept in full sunshine, then with the plants in water in full sun, and in the Victoria-house ; the results, M. Ern. Th. Witte reports, are very satisfactory. Lilium giganteum succeeds well here in the shade ; Crinum Powelli, intermedium, and album are hardy species, needing only to be covered in winter with a layer of grassy turf li foot thick, which protects them from frost and damp, to that the plants grow vigorously and bloom freely ; Hesperis violacea is an admirable plant, because of its long spikes of clear violet flowers, veined with reddish-violet ; Viburnum tomen- tosum plieitum at the time of flowering becomes one large cluster of pure white ; Iris virginica is an old but good plant, the flowers of which open well in water. At Leyden, Amaryllis are a specialty. Bulbs in pots had been, on June 6, a fortnight under glass ; when the shoots are 4 inches high, the glass will be removed, cultivation continued in the open-air, and at the end of July the plants will bloom. At the Utrecht Botanic Garden I observed Den- drobium macrophyllum Veitchianum, a good Pansy, Vanda tricolor Thomas Glynn, lilac, and sweetly scented ; Calceolaria violacea, a fruiting species from Chili with charming and abundant little flowers ; Passiflora coerulea, Imperatrice Eugenie, and Aristo- lochia elegans with thousands of flowers. MM. Glym Davos et Cie., in addition to some fine Orchids, showed me Pteris scaberula, Erythraea edulis, a rare Palm; and a fine variegated Palm, Chamferops excelsa var., somewhat suggestive of Tillaudeia tessellat.i. At Maertensdyk-lez-Utrecbt are the houses of Baron von Boetzelaar, a well-known Orchid-grower. Here were Odontoglossum crispum, 0. luteo-pur- pureum, with a branching spike with sixty good flowers ; Cattleya Mendeli, some good Vandas, Cypripediums, and fine specimens of Oncidium sphacellatum. On June 8 there was held, at Amsterdam, a meet- ing of a plant and floral committee of the Horticul- tural and Botanical Society of the Netherlands. Mr. E. H. Krelage staged Acalypha Sanderiana, Richardia africana candidissima, Iris nigricaus, Tulipa Sprengeri, Calochortus Purdyi, mameanus roseus and majus, Brodisea Howelli lilacina, Kniphofia Tucki, and other plaDts. The same firm also Bhowed a fine group, including Iris sibirica, squalens, orientalis, plicata, and Dodecatheon ; Helicodicera cristata, Pyrethrum Trollius Gibsoni, Sprekelia formosissima and glauca, Papaver, Oxalie, and many other plants, a Gold Medal being awarded for the lot. M. Schrober, of Utrecht, showed forced perpetual Strawberries of delicate scent, but somewhat watery flavour. Baron von Boetzelaar sent a line Odouto- glossum crispum, the divisions much spotted with brownish-red, of good form and large size; also another plaut with pure white flowers, and a third, of the Triamei group, also fine. M. J. II. Tromp Menters, of Stremoyk, in a group of Orchids showod a well-bloomed Cattleya Skinneri, with three clusters of large dark flowers : CymtiMium Lowi with a dozen floral racemes ; a strong plant of Anguloa Clowesii, and a fine Cattleya Meodeli. M. S. Bleeker, Director of the School of Horticul- ture, and G. A. van Swieten, of Frederiksoord, Bhowed Begonias Tappich Konigin and Louise de Vries, the former dwarf, free-flowering, easily budded, and a substitute for Alternanthera paroxychoides ; the latter plant is from a semi-double Tuberous Begonia crossed with B. Weltonensis ; this blooms from April to November, grows 24 feet high, is easily budded, and should prove very useful. MM. J. H. Kershen & Cie., of Heemstede, showed Anemone corouaria, fl.-pl., White Lady ; M. J. C. de Langi, Lilium rubellum ; M. Willink van Collen, Lupinus nutksensis ; MM. Peter van Velsen & Fils, of Overveen, some fine seedlings of Anemone St. Brigid ; and M. B. Ruys,' Heuehera sanguinea alba, which I thought an improvement on the type. Ch. De B. The Week's Work. THE FLOWER GARDEN. By H. Walters, Gardener to Lord Gerrard, Eastwell Park, Ashford. Calendula officinalis .fl.-pl. Meteor and Orange King, >tc. plurialis. — These are among the showiest and most effective of Bummer flowering annuals, useful alike for filling beds, planting in borders, or wherever masses of bright colour are desired. The height of the plants varies from 9 inches to 1 foot. The colours of the flowers range from a rich orange, and a deep lemon, and that of the last-named is white ; beds of these varieties, planted alternately, have a striking effect. The plants grow with rapidity, and flowers freely, and the greater the better the soil. Polyanthus and Primroses. — If seeds of these plants were not sown in the spring, it is still a good time to sow either out-of-doors in a shaded spot, and cover the seed with some fine soil, or, what is preferable, in pots or boxes, placing these upon a bed of coal-ashes in a cold frame facing north. By the first mode of sowing, the seed is more likely to be unmolested, and in the second the young plants are more likely to be better cared for. The pans and boxes should be well drained, and the crocks covered with moss or rough leaf-mould, and the soil Bhould consist of three-fourths leaf-mould and one-fourth loam, and a small quantity of sharp sand well mixed with it. If the soil is very dry, afford water, and wait an hour or two before sowing the seeds. Cover the seed very slightly with fine soil, and be sure that slugs do not molest them. When large enough to handle, let them be pricked out upon a partially shaded bed, and with the exception of an occasional application of water in dry weather, and keeping the ground free from weeds, they will need but little more attention until the autumn, when they may be planted in the places in which they are intended to flower. Sweet Pea Pink Cupid. — This so far has proved, here, to be very superior to the white variety of that name ; the flowers are of two shades of pink ; and the height of the plants varies from 3 to 6 inches, with a breadth of about 1 foot, and tho flowers are very numerous. The Flowtr-beds. — The flowers are feeling the bene- ficial effects of the warmer weather, and rapidly covering the soil, and whilst their size permits of it being performed without damaging them, the soil should be stirred with the small single-handled hoe or handfork. Calceolarias should be supported by ueat Birch twigs stuck in among the plants ; and Pelargoniums, Petunias, &c , secured with pegs. If the ground is dry, afford copious applications of water either in the early morning or late in the day. Violas should be especially attended to in this respect, and the seed-vessels removed from the plants. The more tender sub-tropicals should now be in their places, taking care to make them secure against the wind if they are tall. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By W. H. White, Orchid Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., BurTord, Dorking. Cypripediums. — Those plants of Cypripedium bel- latulum, C. concolor, C. Godefroya;, and C. niveum which have just gono out of the flower-stage may bo repotted, not disturbing them unnecessarily at, the root in the least degree, as the work needs the utmost care, the roots being very brittle. Healthy plants, if in pots of a suitable size, should have the whole of the old compoBt removed by picking it out, the drainage rearranged, and fresh rooting material afforded. Thriving specimens that require more space should have the old pot broken with a hammer, and the decayed compost picked out without disturb- ing the roots, and if the drainage be permeated with roots, leave it untouched, and place the whole mass in a larger pot, filling up to about one-half its depth with crocks, limestone, or broken brick, and fill up firmly with the following compost : — Good fibrous loam, freely intermixed with small nodules of tufa-reck, and a small quantity of sphagnum-mops. Be sure to keep the rootstock about on a level with the rim of the pot, and the potting material about £ inch below, which will render the affording of water an easy matter. Instead of affording water in the usual manner, it is much safer to dip Cypripediums in a pail of water, letting it just cover the surface of the compost. With this method there is little danger of water lodging in the centre of the plants or in the axils of the leaves. Throughout the growing season these plants require a good soaking each time they become dry, and all of them prefer the hot, moist condition usual in the East Indian-house, and a light position where they may be only thinly shaded at any time. Tnrips damage the young foliage, and should be frequently sought after; but where the XL All vaporiser is used periodically there will be little need to do this. Cattlcyas. — The weather this season has suited the requirements of Cattleya gigas and its free-floweriDg variety, C. g. Sanderiana, and any plaut now showing flower should be placed in a shady part of the house and kept more than ordinarily moist, in order that the growths may finish up well. Immediately the spikes are removed, only just enough water should be afforded as will save the roots from perishing. About a week or ten days afterwards the newly-made growths send out from their bases a great many roots -in fact, this Cattleya produces more roots after the flowering period than at any other season. This appearance of roots indicates the time for re- potting, which if performed later may bring about a good deal of injury to the roots. In repotting supply ample drainage, elevate the plant somewhat above the rim of the pot, keeping it firm in its position by means of a few neat Bticks, and pot with moderate firmness, using a compoBt that consists of two-thirds best fibry peat, and one-third of sphagnum-moss, broken crocks, and charcoal. After repotting, stand the plants at the cooler part of the Cattleya or inter- mediate-house, where there is sufficient light and air to consolidate the newly-made growth. Water must not be afforded very copiously, or the plants will make growth instead of resting ; still, the compost must not become so dry as to cause shrivelling of the bulbs— a condition that causes no harm when the plants have become firmly rooted in the new com- post. Cattleya Dowiana and its variety, if strong, will at this seaaon be showing the flower-sheaths, needing much care in keeping water from lodging around the bases of these sheaths, causing the decay of the flower-buds. This species does best when it is grown at the lightest and best ventilated part of the house. After the flowers have faded, the same kind of treatment should be afforded as that advised for C. gigas. It is immaterial whether the plant be grown in a pan or a basket, but it is important that the potting material should be of a very porous nature. C. Eldorado and its varieties are mid-way through the growing season, and need a warm, shady place, and in the case of well-rooted plants to be copiously afforded water til! growth for the season is complete. C. Eldorado is the more worth growing, for the reason that the flowers appear at a time when but few Orchids are in bloom. Among other Cattleyas that require re-pottiug at this season are C. Mendeli, C. Mossitc, C. Schrodenc, C. Warneri, Ladia purpurata, L. tenebrosa, and tho various Cattleya and Lpelio- Cattleya hybrids that are beginning to grow anew. Plants of Lielia anceps and its numerous varieties are now growing fast and rooting freely. Now is the time to afford them plenty of root-moisture, drawing up the blinds early in the afternoon, damping well between the pots, stages, &c, and affording the plants a good overhead syringing. FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By G. Norman, Gardener hi the Marquess of SALISBURY, llal Held House, Herts. Pineapples. — The plants of all ages should now be growing freely, filling the soil if thoy are in a healthy July 9, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. state with new roots, and rendering a liberal treat ment very necessary. The bottom-beat should be kept up to 90° for fruiters, and 85° for successions, aud to 80° for those that are younger. With regard to the fruiting- plants, root moisture according to the parti- cular needs of each plant, must be afforded to all, excepting those that indicate the ripening Btage, which should not be afforded any. Occasionally weak manure may be afforded to the fruiters « hilst the fruit is green, but not a large amount of aerial moisture, or the crowns will develop to an undesirable size. If a fruiting-house xists it is an easy matter to maintain the proper conditions, but if successions and fruiters are grown together th eir managomt nt becomes difficult, and the result is not as a ui'e very satisfactory. It is, of course, essential to keep those with fruits all toge- ther, and apart from the rest, and at the warmest part ; and if more fruit3 are likely to be ripe at one time than there is demand for, the least ripe may be retarded by being placed iu a cool, airy vinery when colouring begins. The temperature of the fruiting-house at dusk may be 75° at 6 a.m.; on dull, sunless days, 75°; and on sunny days it may vary fiom that figure to 90° when the house is closed. Avoid draughts of cold air, or air from the north-side of the house, reaching the plants. Usually tanners'-bark is employed as plunging material in a Pine-bed, either of itself to aflVrd the necessary amount of bottom-heat, or to supplement the heating-apparatus ; aud in any case this body of material, if in a condition to afford heat, that is not decayed, will stand in need in the warmer months of an occasional application of very warm water, as without moisture tan alone ferments, and heats but slowly. Moreover, when in a dry 6tate, the moisture is extracted from the soil in the pots, and from the bed of soil if they are grown with- out pots, to the detriment of the plants. To depend on the daily syringing of the bed is not enough. It frequently happens that a number of growths— "gills," in gardeners' parlance — form round the stalk at the base of the fruit, and more rarely round that of the crown ; such should be twisted off as soon as observed, and also all suckers, excepting those needed to keep up the stock of plants, the strongest and beat of which should be selected. In the case of scarce varieties, the crowns may be made use of, but the gardener must obtain po session of these as soon as the remains of the dessert are removed from the dinner-table. It is a good practice to be always put- ting in a few suckers to root, aud it is perhaps the only way in which a glut of fruit at one season, and Ecircity at others, can be obviated. Successions. — These plants should be kept slightly less warm at top and bottom than the fruiters, an 1 not lack for root-moisture ; still, not affording one of them water until the s*ate of the soil is ascertained. The chief points for the gardener to know are the state of the plants as regards their roots, and the con- dition of the soil in regard to moisture. Excessive over-potting is a thing to be avoided, it being tbe cause of unsuspected loss of roots ; and a pot-bound condition, on the other hand, even if plantfo d be supplied with guano- water and other liquid manures, is open to the risk of forcing the production of fruit at a time when the plant is too young to produce fine fruits, or of its comicg when it is not required, and thus causing a scarcity at the right season. Suc- cessions must be kept in healthy growth at this the best season for making it, and to this end a moist, genial condition must be maintained in the house, iu the plunging-bed, and in the soil in which the plants are grown, not, however, affording manure-water, the soil itself, if properly chosen, affording all the nutri- ment the plants need. On fine days, damp down at 7 A.M., afford a small quantity of air at S.30 or 9 a.m., and again at 11 or at noon, damping the floors once or twice as may be necessary between whiles ; the more sun the more moisture ; and at 1 p.m. begin to reduce the ventilation, shutting up at 3 p.m., dewing the plants with tepid water, moistening the surface of the bed aud the stems of the plants, aud damping the floors and walls. On very sultry nights a small .mount of ventilation may be given. The Scalding of Grapes. — At this season the "scalding" of Grapes is commoner than at any other, and the dull weather that has this year pre- vailed during June renders fruit aud foliage very liable to injury of this kid. Lady Downe'd Seed- ling is one of the varieties very subject to scalding, and Madresfield Court is only a little less so, although no variety is immure. The injury i.? done at the latter part of the stoning period. In order to guard against scalding, let the heating apparatus be brought into use at the same time, maintaining the necessary degree of warmth, and then ventilate freely. The vinery should indicate 70° at dusk, falling to 65° in the morning ; and 70° to 75° should be the maximum on dull days, and on sunny days to 80° to S5°, shut- ting off the heat from the pipes if sunheat is sufficient. During the night some slight amount of ventilation may be afforded at the top of the vinery if rain can be excluded. The front ventilators may be opened by r'ay when the day is very warm. Fungus diseases of the Vino are encouraged by a stagnant atmo- sphere in the vinery, which healthier conditions tend to check or prevent. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By J. W. McIIattie, Gardener to thu Duke of Wellington, Strafchneldsaye, Hants. Onions. — The beds should be kept aB clear of weeds as possible, and all plants damaged by the Onion- fly or mildew removed and burned. Let the bed be afforded a slight dressing of soot or guano, or of Thomson's plant-manure, mixing it with the surface- soil with the Dutch-hoe. This will tend to rapid growth, which is at all times necessary if the crop is at all grub infested. The Onion-plants raised under glass and transported in April are looking well this season. It is very necessary that the bed should be hoed often, and afforded the above-mentioned top dressing, although very little help with artificial manures will be needed if the land was well prepared in the autumn. The Onion-fly soon makes its presence known by the young plants toppling over instead of beiog erect, the result of the ingress of the grub just at the ground level. Mushrooms. — Preparations may soon be made for making beds for furnishing the autumn supply. At this season the bed may be made up in a cool shed under trees. The quantity of short stable litter aud horse-droppings should not be less than three or four one-horse cart loads at a time, and should be allowed to ferment moderately, turning it occasionally, and throwing it into narrow ridges in order to keep down the fermentation and sweeten. When the rankness has been dissipated it is ready for making into beds. When this stage is reached it ought to be of a dark colour, soft, and damp enough when pressed by the hand not to fall asunder at. once. The beds may be made of a width of i feet, and of any desired length. Let the manure be made firm by trampling and beating it, finishing off the top in a rounded fashion, or sloping like a saddle-roof. At first there will be a high trn- perature in the beds, which in a few days will fall to S0°, at which point the beds will be fit for spawning. In doing this, push pieces of spawn 1 inch square a little way into the manure, and cover with the manure, the pieces being placed in rows running across the beds at 8 inches apart. Having spawned the beds, cover them with mats or clean straw for a period of about eight days, when they should be covered thinly with good garden loam beaten rather firmly, so that it will not slip off; then put a covering of 1 foot thick stable-litter over all to conserve the heat of the dung, letting this be about 65°. Mush- rooms should appear in from six to seven weeks from the dat9 of spawning a bed. HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. H. Divers, Gardener to the Duke of Rutland, Belvoir Castle, Grantham. Strawberry Runners. — If new plantations are con- templated, the layers should forthwith be laid on the soil, or on bits of dead turf, or if it be liked, in 60-sized pots. Whichever be the method, it is essential, if fruit is to be picked next year, to layer as early as it possible to obtain the runners. Unless plants are scarce, employ only the first plantlet on a runner, and nip off the runner beyond the first layered. If the space between the rows admits of its being done without crowding the runners and tbe mother- plants, turn the runners from two rows int> the alley between the two rows, and layer them there, as by doing this tho workman in gathering fruit, affording water, and generally in attending t > the layers, need not tread on them. Layers may bo kept in position by means of wooden hooks or bits of btone^ and perhaps the latter is best, ou account of its keeping the soil moist at the point of contact with the runner. Provided tho land for the new bed has been got in readiness, the rooted runners need not remain attached to the mother - plants after sufficient roots have pushed into the soil to support the new plants, but they may be planted forthwith. In dry weather tho runners must be afforded water, but once theturvesare properly soaked, not so much water is required as by layers in pots. Packing the Fruit. — Strawberries for despatching a distance should be perfectly dry when gathered, and boxes made 2 inches deep inside, and all of one width and length are best for packing in, as these can be tied together to form one package when several are sent. A thin layer of the best wood-wool should be put into the bottom of each, over this a sheet of tissue-paper, and each fruit should be wrapped iu a soft Strawberry leaflet, or a bit of Vine-leaf. Damage often arises in transit from the stems bruising the fruit, and the stems should in all cases be carefully placed at the bottom of the box. A covering of Vine or Strawberry leaves Bhould be put over all, then a sheet of tissue-paper, and finally a Bheet or two of wadding to prevent the movement of the fruits iu transit. For sending by post the best wood-wool is the only kind of packing material I have found to give satisfaction, as it permits of less movement than wadding, however firmly tho latter is packed. Wooden boxes, or those made of other materials that possess any kind of odour must on no account be used, and the best are made of Poplar, Plane, Willow, or tho like. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By W. Messenoer, Gardener to C. H. Berners, Esq., Woolverstone Park, Ipswich. Adiantum cuneatum. — These plants may be cut over closely, and then stood in a cool frame or pit, and the amount of water afforded much reduced, in order to rest them for a few weeks. When they are started anew into growth, bring them into warmer quarters, and afford weak manure-water once a week, or less often, as may seem desirable ; they will make nice plants by the autumn. Any that are much pot-bound may be shifted, and others may be split up if more are required. Adiantum cuneatum growing freely should be merely shaded slightly during the hottest part of the day, the fronds from such plants lasting in a fresh condition longer than those taken from heavily shaded plants. Plants from spores often found on damp walls and the floors of stoves may be placed in pans or in thumb-pots to grow on for future use. AspUnium viviparum. — For indoor decorative work, this easily grown and very ornamental species should be commonly grown in gardens, and the present is a suitable season to remove the plantlets from the fronds, and place them in pans or in Bhallow boxes filled with a mixture consisting of leaf-mould and silver-sand. After pricking out and gently affording water, stand them in a moist, warm, shady pit, and by the end of the month of September they will have grown large enough to pot into thumbs anil small 60's. Gloxinias. — Any of the well-rooted seedlings now standing in 60's may be Bhifted into 48's, using for them a mixture of peat one-half, leaf-mould one- fourth, loam one-fourth, and plenty of sand and good drainage. Keep tbe tuber one-third of its height above the soil, and pot with moderate firmness. After repotting, keep close, moist, and warm, but do not syringe them, and before any plant is brought into a cool-house, let it be gradually inured to a lower temperature. Gloxinias always require shade from bright sunshine, and careful ventilation, and to be kept clear of Thrips and red-spider — their two worst enemies, and for this purpose vaporisation or fumi- gation must be resorted to. Plants gone out of flower should be afforded less water, and be eventually dried off. Caladiums. — C. argyrites showing signs of having passed its best should be brought to a state of rest by very gradual drying off. The tubers of C. argyrites Bhould not be kept, while at rest, in a parched condition, or they will perish. It is prudent to make an examination of the tubers at intervals, and afford the soil water sufficient in quantity to pre- vent excessive dryness in tbe tubers. Varieties of larger growth may be repotted into larger pots if an increase of size be desired. Afford them a slight amount of shade during bright sunshine, with day heat of 80°, and a few degrees more at closirg time, and a night temperature of 68° to 70°, with plenty of aerial mois- ture and no stiut at the root. Rainfall in Ceylon. — On December 10 last at Newenkuni, 122 feet above sea-level, 31 '72 inches of rain were measured within twenty'-four hours. No wonder we read also of floods aud other disasters. N- wenkuui must have been the centre of a cyclonic disturbance. The Tropical Agriculturist of Ceylon give3 numerous details in confirmation of this extra- ordinary rainfall. 30 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE, [July 9, 1898; EDITORIAL NOTICES. ADVERTISEMENTS should be sent to the PUBLISHER. Letters for Publication, as well as specimens and plants for naming, should be addressed to the EDITOR, 41, Welling- ton Street, Covent Garden, London. Communications Should be WRITTEN ON ONE SIDE ONLY OF THE PAPER, sent as early in the week as possible, and duly signed by the writer. 1/ desired, the signature will not be printed, but kept as a guarantee of good faith. The Editor does not under- take to pay for any contributions, or to return unused com- munications or illustrations, unless by special arrangement Illustrations.— The Editor will thankfully receive and select photographs or drawings, suitable for reproduction, of gardens, or of remarkable plants, flowers, trees, etc.; but hecannot be responsible for loss or injury. APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. SATURDAY, TUESDAY, /Manchester Royal Botanic Society Rose Show. I Wood Green Horticultural So- Triv 0 ciety'sShow. JL" JV]Bojal Botanic Society, General Meeting. National Amateur Gardening Asso- , ciation, at Regent's Park. { Royal Horticultural Society's Cora. July 12-! mitteos. j Wolverhampton Horticultural t Show (3 days). /"Durham, Northumberland, and Newcastle-on-Tyne Horticultural I Show, at Newcastle (Deputation WEDNESDAY, July 13 < ?'om *!* R°yaI Horticultural ) Society). Rose and Horticultural Shows at Nottingham (2 days), Bedford, Maidstone, and Ipswich. /National Rose Society's Show at Halifax. Jersey Gardeners' Floral Fete. Floral Fete (Hospital) at Canter- 1 bury. Rose and Horticultural Shows at Salterhebble, Brentwood, and V Reading. SATURDAY', July 16 ' Xiw Brighton Rose and Horticul- ( tural Show. SALE. , ,. ( Imported and Established Orchids, 1 at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms. THURSDAY, July 14 FRIDAY, Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from Observations of Forty-three Y'oars, at Chiswick. — 63 3°. Actual Temperatures : — London.— July 6(6 p.m.): Max., 76°; Min., 60°. Provinces.— July « (ii p.m.) : Max., 74°, Hurst Castle ; Min., 51°, Sumburgh Head. Close, dull, hot. Roses at The National Eose Society on the Crystal Saturday last once again called its loyal members together, to take their part in the annual metropolitan competitive exhibition of the queenly flower it is the Society's life - work to encourage, popularise, admire — yea, and seek to improve. That every member does his best to exhibit, and does his very best when in the act of exhi- biting, is true every year, and consequently of 1898. But the result is not always equally satisfactory-. To make a grand exhibition in an unfavourable season is more than the National Society's resources can accomplish, and in such a year as 1898, the knowledge that he has done his best, has met his fellow Eose-cultivators in the annual gathering, has told his tale of incessant struggling against unkindly climatic influences, and has heard the similar tale of others— this is the Kcs 3- exhibitor's chief source of satisfaction. It is pleasant to write that the event of Saturday was satisfactory from quite another standpoint, for the exhibition itself was a good one. The anxiety felt during May and the greater part cf June was very great, and ill to bear. It was occasioned by the extraordinary charac- teristics of the weather. May was less kind than March, and June was but a little warmer than April. Winds wore as prevalent as sun- less days. Cultivators inquired of eaph other upon the prospects of the Eose season, and our own columns have contained several articles upon the subject. Everywhere was given the same answer, "late! late!" It was about the time of the Bath Show that the general feeling of uncertainty was displaced by more optimistic forecasts. The words of a large trade grower then were these, "Yes, the blooms will bo late, but they will be good ; we shall have a good though late Eose season, and the hybrid Teas especially look exceedingly pro- mising." Events have proved this view to have been very nearly correct. There was very little disappointment at the Crystal Palace, and it was heavily counterbalanced by a most opposite feel- ing. There was good competition , very few classes indeed failing in this respect. The following instances illustrate what a large number of Eoses were shown in one class alone. In that for forty varieties in trebles (nurserymen), there were six exhibitors, and together they staged 720 blooms. Again, there were five compe- titors in the class for seventy-two blooms, dis- tinct varieties (nurserymen), there being accordingly 360 blooms in the class. In the fight for the championship, Bedale and Hitchin have again given way before Colchester. Messrs. Harkness & Sons, who have held the trophy during the past two seasons, having this year failed before the veteran grower, Mr. B. E. Cant, and the second aspirants for the honour, also from Colchester, were Messrs. P. Cant & Co. The Colchester firms secured a very large share indeed of the spoils. Mr. B. E. Cant's collection of seventy-two blooms was a good one, and worthy of winning the much coveted prize awarded it. This season has seen Mr. C. Turner a little closer to the front than of late, He was the first-prize exhibitor in the class for twenty-four blooms distinct, and showed a collection that we con- sidered to be the best in quality of any collection in the show. The Teas and Noisette Eoses were good in size and substance, but occasionally suffered a little by disfigurement from rains. The only fault we had to find with the Teas was this lack of finish or refinement, and that only in some cases. Tho hybrid Teas were shown well, and it is beyond doubt that some of the p»rettiest Eoses in cultivation have been pressed into service in this sectioD. If we recall a Eose exhibition of a dozen years ago, we shall the better appreciate the handsome and distinct effect, also the gorgeous colouring that Satur- day's show obtained from the varieties Mrs. W. G. Sharman Crawford, Mrs. W. J. Grant, and Comtesse do Nadaillac. In exhibits of trebles it could hardly escape the notice of anyone, that in almost all the classes there was the bril- liant colour of Mrs. W. J. Grant, the three blooms being the first the eye would rest upon. The prettily-tinted Comtesse de Nadaillac was awarded the Silver Medal in both tho nursery- men and amateur section, as being the best Tea or Noisette bloom in either case. In the former case it was shown by Mr. Geo. Prince, in the latter by Mr. A. Hill Gray. Medal Eoses of the H.-P. section wero Mrs. Jno. Laing and Gustave Piganoau. How fre- quently Bennett's best Eose — Mrs. Jno. Laing — has obtained the Mec'al for the best II. -P. bloom ! 1 1 was shown on this occasion by Mr. E. 1>. Linisell; and Messrs. Town-send & Sons had the honour of the Medal for Gustavo Piganeau. The Medals to Hybrid Teas were awarded to White Lady shown by Mr. C. J. (Irahame (whose liberality in offering so many special prizes has been generally appeciated), and to Mrs. W. J. Grant, from Messrs. Paul & Son. Messrs. A. Dickson & Sons competition for the best twelve Eoses sent out by this firm again served to show how many fine Eoses have emanated from this Irish nursery ; but it is curious that Messrs. Dicksons themselves should elect to compete in the class. They did, however, and were awarded first prize. The date of the Palace Show was very suit- able to the display of the pretty and showy garden-Eoses. Messrs. Paul's exhibit of thirty- six distinct varieties was a very fine one, and they were staged with such good taste and finish as would be difficult to excel. But this much goes without saying when we add that the collection obtaining second place was one from Messrs. Geo. Cooling & Sons, Bath, who so generally show Eoses of this section in fine condition. Several new garden-Eoses in Messrs. Paul's exhibit are alluded to in our detailed report in another column. There were not many absolutely new Eoses at the Palace. The Society's Gold Medal was awarded to the seedling hybrid Tea known as Purity, shown by Messrs. Cooling & Sons. It may be remem- bered that this variety received a card of com- mendation last season from the National Eose Society at the Portsmouth meeting. The Society has now given the highest award in its power to bestow. Messrs. Paul showed their hybrid Eose Una, but it failed to obtain even a card of commendation. In the amateurs' division there was generally good competition, and satisfactory quality. It is a fact that feveral well-known amateurs found the date of the show too early for them — a week later would have made all the difference. We emphasise the fact that the general quality was good, but it did not compare so favourably with that in the trade exhibits, as has been observed on many previous occasions. No one will grudge, and all will congratulate, Mr. E. B. Lisdsell, who had again the honour of winning the amateurs' championship trophy, offered for the best collection of thirtyr-six dis- tinct varieties. Mr. Lindsell has now proved himself the champion grower for the seventh time in tho last ten years. The winners in the three years when he was unsuccessful wero the Eev. J. H. Pejiherton, who is generally a little late for this show, and Messrs. S. P. Btjdd and W. J. Grant. Mr. Lindsell's county is Hertfordshire, the Eev. Pemberton's Essex, Mr. Budd's Somerset, and Mr. Grant's was Hereford. The amateur championship for Teas and Noisettes was won by Mr. A. Hill Gray, tho winner of this honour on the two previous occasions having been Mr. O. G. Orpen, of Colchester. Mr. A. Tate, of Leatherhead, had the best garden Eoses. The system of group- ing the exhibitors into classes according to the resources of each, continues to work well, it tending to encourage cultivators to stage blooms, who under othor conditions could scarcely hope to win a prizo at all. Tho nave of iho Palaco being availablo on Saturday, the Eosos were staged once again in the manner that is apparently the most gene- rally- popular. ^Tho Palace show was a most enjoyable event, and everyone appeared in good spirits, including the venerable secretary, the Eev. H. H. D'Ombrain, whom all were pleased to see present. Mr. D'Omi.rain was assisted in his work by Mr. Ed. Mawley;, hon. secretary, and Mr. Geo. Bunyarp. All eyes now turn to Halifax. There, the growers in the later districts will havo their chauce. May they oqually well acquit themselves. July 9, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 31 On Tuesday last the Council of Clisw'ck. the Royal Horticultural Society renewed the graceful invitation to the Committees which gave so much satis- faction !ast year. It is nut n csssary to point out to the frequent vi-sitors to the Drill Hall iu what the work of the several committees con- sists, but for the sake of those at a distance, who aro not familiar with the working of the Society, it may be desirable to allude to the subject. Throughout the year the committees meet every fortnight, and give up the day imminent, the committees continued their work as zealously as they do now under happier auspices. The Society is clearly under great obligations to the committees, and the Council did well to take an opportunity of expressing their recognition of the fact. Sir Trevor Lawrence, a stalwart, who stuck to the Society in its evil days, and is never wanting when work is to be done, occupied the chair, and expressed his sense of the work done by the committees, whom he designated as the backbone of the Society. Sir Trevor threw out the suggestion that throughout, and had proved themselves as the President had said, the backbone of the society. Mr. Dyer alluded to the first Temple Show, an undertaking initiated with some apprehension. The Co vent Garden growers and others were approached on the subject, and readily responded, and so the first Temple Show proved a suc- cess, and subsequent gatherings, favoured by weather, have been increasingly successful. Alluding to the forthcoming Paris Exhibition of 1000, Mr. Tiiiselton-Dyeu threw out the suggestion that our fruit-growers should send Fig. 9. — stanhopea rodigasiana : new sps. (see p. 32.) without fee or reward, to the business of the Sociely. They pass in review all the exhibits entered for certificates, and assess their merits with judgment and impartiality. That they do not always give universal satisfaction is to say that they are hard-working human beings. It is only the idlers who are never wrong, and most of us would prefer to be occasionally wrong with the conscientious hard- workers, than negatively light with those who do nothing. The committees, moreover, super- vise the numerous trials made in the experi- mental garden at Chiswick. Iu the old days of gloom and depression wl>en ruin seemed sooner or later it would be necessary to seek some other spot for an experimental garden, the present garden being too limited in area, too much built in, and the soil more or less exhausted. Sir Trevor concluded his speech by drinking to the health of the committees, and calling upon Mr.TiiisELTON-DYEK, the Director of the Eoyal Gardens, Kew, to respond. Mr. Dyer in reply, made a graceful and sympathetic speech, alluding to the evil days at South Kensington, and to the vigorous effbits (in which Mr. Dy'er himself had no small pait), which were necossary to reinstate the society. The committees also had stuck to the society periodically specimens of their produce, as it was abundantly clear that English-grown fruit was, as a rule, infinitely superior to that grown on the continent. After a vote of thanks to the President, the members dispersed to inspect the garden. Want of rain is manifested iu every part of the gardeu. There was a parched-up appear- ance on every hand, and it would seem that this particular part of the county has had a smaller rainfall than adjacent districts. The trial of Tea Poses, which proved so successful last year, is continued, and there is also repeated it border of early-flowering 32 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 9, 1898. Chrysanthemums. In one of the flower-beds by the side of the walk leading from the great vinery to the Sutton Court Road, there is a bed of acompact, well-formed, yellow-flowered type of Zinnia Haageana imbricata, which promises to form a very pleasing feature. Those interested in perennial Campanulas will find a consider- able number of species in flower on the rock- work. The white Solan um Balbisii is to be found in a bed near the Council Chamber. Many subjects such as zonal Pelargoniums, &c. are planted out, and will doubtless engage the attention of the Floral Committee by-and-by. Under glass there is a comprehensive trial of Cannas coming on, which will repay inspection. A fine collection of Gloxinias aro past their best, but they have been very striking. Lantanas, Fuchsias, Heliotropes, &c, are also to be seen in collections. In the frames Mr. Wright has a number of seedling plants of Dabeocia, Ledum, and Eucryphia pinnatifida he has raised, which will probably be distributed to the Fellows in due course. In one house can be seen growing on the roof a new and very beautiful Passion-flower raised from seeds from British Guiana, supplied Dr. Masters. The propagating-pit has been re-roofed, and Mr. Wright speaks in the highest terms of its usefulness and adaptability. The Vegetables and Fruit are alluded to in another column. Stanhopea RODIGASIANA.— On June 28, Sir T. Lawrence, Bart., exhibited the remarkable Stan- hopea Rodigasiana (fig. 9, p. 31), which illustrates a new section of the genua. The plant possessed one expanded flower, and one unopened flower-bud ; and, as is usual in Stanhopeas, these were attached to a pendeut etalk ot about 1 foot in length. The pre- vailing colour of the flower is creamy-white, with dense purple spots on the sepals and petals ; that of the lip is pinkish, excepting in the middle area, where the prevailing colour is repeated ; and at the base, where it is blackish-purple. The reverse of the petals and sepals abounds with light-brown coloured spots. For a full description of this sti iking novelty, see p. 14 in our issue for July V. Royal Horticultural Society.— The next fruit and floral meetings of the Royal Horticultural Society will be held on Tuesday, July 12, in the Drill Hall, James Street, Westminster, 1 to 5 p.m. On this occasion special prizes will be offered for Roses ; and at 3 o'clock a lecture on ' Edible Peas " will be given by Mr. N, N. Sherwood, V.M.U. Horticultural Club.— The annual excursion, to which ladies are invited, is fixed for Tuesday, July 19 : — Members will meet at the first- class waiting-room of the Great Western Railway at Paddiugton at 9.15, and will proceed in a saloon- carriage to Slough by the 10 o'clock train, where carriages will be waiting for them ; they will then drive to the village of Stoke Pogis, in the churchyard which the poet Gray is buried, and if time permits g<) through the gardens of Stoke Park. They will then proceed to Mr. Veitch's residence, East Burn- ham Park, where luncheon will be provided for them; after luncheon they will proceed through Burnham Beeches to Dropmore, and then return through Burnham Beeches to Mr. Veitch's to tea, returning from Slough by the 7.3S train. It is estimated that the cost will be 9s each. Each member is eutitled to bring one friend, lady or geutlemau. Members wishing to join the excursion will kindly announce their intention to Harry J. Veitch, Esq., Royal Exotic Nursery, King's Road, Chelsea, by July 9, forwarding at the same time, to save trouble, the amount o£ ticket or tickets. National Carnation and Picotee Society (postponement).— We are asked to state that in consequence uf the backward character of the season, the Southern Show, which is to beheldatthe Crystal Palace, has been postponed from July 20 to July 27. Yorkshire Naturalists' Union. — The 139th meeting will bo held at Leyburn, for Jervaulx Abbey, this day, Saturday, July 9, 1898. The district to be investigated — with Jervaulx Abbey as a centre, includes the lower portion of Wensleydale, from Leyburn to Masham, an area which seems never to have been systematically worked in any department of natural history. The lists and notes which have been published in respoct of the Wens- leydale flora and fauna have either been for the upper portions of the dale, to which attention has been paid by Fothergill, Baker, Percival, and Lees, or for the neighbourhood of Masham lower down, which has been well worked by Mr. James Carter and his sons. The Jervaulx tract therefore seems a perfect blank in our knowlege of the distri- bution of Yorkshire plants and animals, and one likely to amply repay investigation. Routes : All parties will drive from Leyburn to Jervaulx, the con- veyances starting from the station immediately on arrival of the 11.36 a.m. train. I. The general body of naturalists, led by Mr. Hartshorn and others, will explore the neighbourhood of Jervaulx Abbey, the conveyances returning to Leyburn at 4 P.M. II. The geologists, led by Mr. W. Horne, F.G.S., will accompany the first party to Jervaulx, but will leave at 3 o'clock for Harmby Quarrie". Admission to Jervaulx Abbey Grounds : Arrangements have been made for free admission to members showing their cards. Without cards the ordinary fee of 6ci. will be charged. On this occasion tho botanists have the unusual advantage of a virgin field for exploration, as there do not appear to be any published records for the immediate neighbourhood of Jervaulx Abbey, not even in Baker's North Yorkshire, nor in Per- oival's Flora of Wensleydale, which appeared in the Naturalist for 1888. Mr. W. Scott, the gardener at Jervaulx Abbey, mentions that Echium planta- gineum, which grows in the Abbey ruins, several Ferns, and Typha latifolia, mentioned by W. G. M. Jones Barker as growing near Jervaulx, are the only noteworthy forms met with in the immediate neighbourhood. Dr. GEORGE BAUR. — Science, writes Mr. Boiting Hemsley, his lost another devoted servant in the person of George Baor. He was for some time Professor of Osteology and Palaeontology in the University of Chicago, but his name has been more prominently before men of science during the last few years in connection with the origin and natural history of the Galapagos Islands than with his position in the University. He was an enthusiastic worker, but illness overtook him, and he returned to his native country for rest and recovery. This was denied him, and he died on the 25th ult., after much suffering. During the last few years he wrote and lectured much against the theory that the Galapagos originated by upheaval from the ocean ; and although his views met with contemptuous rejection in certain quarters, there is no doubt that biological evidence is strongly in his favour. I may, says Mr. Hemsley, perhaps have an opportunity of laying further par- ticulars of this interesting subject before the readers of the Gardeners' Chronicle. Twin Cucumber.— We have received from Mr. R. Reynolds, Cliff Lodge, Hyde Park, Leeds, a typical specimen of a twin Cucumber. This union of two fruits longitudinally, the result of two flowers beiug united at a very early strge, is by no means uncommon, as the large number of instances sent to this office sufficiently testify. Our thanks ere also due to our correspondent for several photographs of the fruits. The Florida Velvet Bean.— Captain E. A. Wilson, of Orlando, Florida, has sent us a few spe- cimens of the seeds of Bome leguminous plant, perhaps a species of Mucuua. The seeds themselves are prettily marked, and we learn that some ot them are in growth at Kew, so that wo shall, in due time, learn the species to which they belong. Tho plant is said to be " invaluable for all kinds of stock as a forage, and a phenomenal fertiliser for OraDge and other fruit trees." We omit the other laudatory descrip- tions, because, even assuming them to be justified in Florid \, we could not expect them to be so here. The analysis of the Bean is aB remarkable as the rest of the description — "Nitrogen, 54 per cent. ; crude protein, 19 ; fat, 6 ; fibre, 8 ; moisture, 12." Coming of Age Festivities at Stourbridge. — The coming of age of Mr. E. Stanley Webb — eldest son of Mr. Edward Webb— was celebrated on Saturday afternoon, June 25, Mr. and Mrs. Webb having invited the staff of Messrs. Webb & Sons to their residence, Studley Court, Stourbridge. There were about 400 present, including the staff from Wordsley and the workpeople from the Kinver seed farms, also the managers from the chemical works at Chester. Fine weather prevailed, and the visitors were enabled to spend a very pleasant time. A variety of games was provided for their amusement, whilst many availed themselves of boatiDg on the lake. The house and grounds were open, and in the early part of the proceedings afternoon tea was served. The band of the 2nd Batt. Bedford- shire Regt. gave great pleasure by their performances. Dinner was served in a marquee, after Mr. W. W. Wyld, on behalf of the staff, presented Mr. Stanley Webb with an illuminated address, together with several articles, including a travelling bag, dressing- case, hunting-crop, sandwich-case, He. Mr. Stanley Webb in responding, said he could not sufficiently thank them for the kindly feeling towards him as expressed in the address, anel he also acknowleged his indebtedness to them for the assistance they had given him since his connection with the business. "Success to the Firm "was proposed by Mr. J. W. Berrinqton, who referred to the great abilities and untiring energies of the firm — Col. Webb and Mr. Edward Wibb. They always kept the business abreast with the times'. Every year saw some new develop- ment. Col. Webb in replying said, great as the business was, wonderful as the growth had been, he confidently looked forward to even greater progress in the future. A Method of Trapping Ants. — We read in one of Mr. Harmsworth's little magaztEes the other day of a ready means of catching ants. It is to take a large sponge and sprinkle it well with moist or pounded loaf sugar, and set in the vicinity of tho ant's nest. These little troublesome creatures eat sugar with avidity, and soon swarm all over and in the interstices of the sponge. When this is noticed throw the sponge into boiling water and let it remain for a few minutes. Then wash out the dead ants, sprinkle the sponge with sugar, and lay it as before. If this be persevered in for a few days every ant will be destroyed. Cambridge Botanic Garden.— In the annual report of the Botanic Garden Syndicate, it is stated that during the past year 2281 plants, 6026 bulbs, and 2830 packets of seed have been received. Con- tributions have been received from numerous botanic gardens, anil a return has been made to rnostof them, 2426 plants and 3230 packets of seeds having been distributed. Among the more interesting and important plants received are Tmesipteris tannenBis, an ally of Psilotum, of which little recently was known ; Hemitelia capensis, a much desired Tree- Fern ; Polypodium Scbneideri, a remarkable hybrid Fern ; * Coryanthes macrantha, an Orchid with extraordinary means for securing cross-fertilisation ; Augitecum EicMerianum, and various other choice Orchids ; Aloe Lynchi, Baker, a bi-generic hybrid ; Anemopaegma carrcrense, a new Bignonia, described in the Journal of Botany for May, 1S98, p. 188 ; Uoheveria Purpi sii, a new yellow-llowered species; Gmelina hystrix, Bot. Ma;/., 1894, t. 7391, a very little-known plant of the order Verbenaeere, from the Philippines ; Gunnera insignia, a gigantic and remark- able new species ; Myriocarpa lougipes, a peculiar plant of the order ITrticicepo, with racemes nearly 5 feet iu length ; Sechium edule, the Cuocho of the West Ind;es ; Trochotia tslackburniina I But. Mag., 1891, t. 7209), an additional genus, ' ' one of the most * See paper " On the Structure of a Hybrid Fern," by Prof. J. B. Farmer, Annals of Botany, vol. xi., 1807, p. .S33. July 9, 1898.] THE GAR DENE US' CHRONICLE. 33 interesting genera of plants on account of its unique distribution ; '' Veronica macroura, said to be a good acquisition ; Zizania aquatic* (Canada Rice), used as a cereal by North American Indians ; and several new Somali - land plants introduced to the Cambridge Botanic QardeD, among which may be mentioned one of a probably new genus ; Dorstenia arabica, and Senecio Gunnisii, the two latter being very peculiar representatives of their respective genera. Among the plants of interest that have flowered are: — Boea Clarkeana, Hemsl., a new Gesnerad ; Aristolochia saceata, an intere-ting species ; Ta;onia Emodi, a rare species of the Hima- layas ; Ricbardh Pentlandi, a handsome new species phytum tenuifolium, and several other plants from Somali-land. Numerous hybrids among allies of the garden Cineraria, raised by Miss Pertz and the Curator, have flowered, and were exhibited at meet- ings of the Royal Horticultural Society and Philo- sophical Society. The collection of Willows, num- bering about eighty-four kind*, and complete as to British species, has bad the advantage of revision by the Rev. Edward F. Linton of Bournemouth. The plan's have been duly labelled, and specimens have been diied for future reference. The number of specimeus supplied for botanical purposes, including those that were put into alcohol, during the year erding with L.9nt term, amounts to about 80,000. X*^. FlG. 10. — CAMPANCLA MIRAB1LIS: COLOUR OF THE FLOWERS 1'ALE BLUE. (NAT. SIZE.) wiih a yellow spathe ; Iris bosniaca, a new, bearded species ; Pleurothallis puberula, Rolfe ; Masdeva'lia muscosa, one of the most curious of the species, and remarkable on account of its sensitive labsllum ; Lycoris squarnif;era, a handsome new border bulb with rosy lilac flowers ; Calystegia affinis, from Nor- folk Island, regarded as a geographical form of our own C. sepium ; Stapelia gigantea var., apparently a distinct form of this line plant; Crassula abjssinica, a good addition to the succulent collection ; Cheli- donium leptopodum, Prain, a charming new species ; Solanum cornutum, illustrated in the Gardeners Chronicle, October 30, 1897; Huemia somalica, a new species introduced to the Cambridge garden by Mrs. Lort-Phillips ; Aculanthera Cunnisii, a Lew and pretty white Irid collected by the same lady ; Cyperus obtusiflorus ; Ocimum staminosum, C Lloro- CAMPANULA MIEABILIS. Under this name M. Correvon wrote in the year 1896 in the Kcvue Horticole of a species discovered in the Caucasus by M. Alboff, and described in the Bulletin de V Herhicr Bohsier, t. 3, n. 5. On the occasion of the last meeting of the Royal Horticultural Sociely, at the Drill Hall, S.W., a plant of this species was shown in flower (lig. 10) by Messrs. G. Jackman & Son, of Woking, which engaged the attention of most of the persons who saw it. The plant shown bad a lax pyramidal habit, serrated orbicular leaves, with the general aspect of Cam- panula medi'irr, and numerous flowers of a pale blue flower, or nearly of the hue of these of C. carpatica, and of about the same size. Home Correspondence. THE GARDENING CHARITIES. — In reply to Mr. Monro, as regards the Royal Benevolent Society, I can only fay that I obtained, or did my best to obtain, from head-quarters, the fullest information before writing, an 1 iu all the papers and information received there was not one single word referriug to the subscribers being sure of anything except a vote. If this is altered, and they are now sure of help if needed, then the whole matter is on a totally different basis, and it will be well that this should be known ; peihapa Mr. Monro will be good enough to let me have the information officially. The fact that there are so very few subscribers amongst the gardeners shows that either I was correct in my statements, or Mr. Monro's further information is not known. If he will send me the confirmation of his statement, from an official source, I shall be pleased to send £20 to the Treasurer of the Royal Benevolent Institution. The only condition necessary is that every subscriber who is a gardener shall be abso- lutely certain that at least the amount of his pay- ments, plus 2J per cent, compound interest shall be guaranteed, if applied for, either at the age of, say, 65 or at death. He can get this from the Post- office Savings-bank, without chatity, and he or his survivors should be able to claim it as an absolute right. This simple insurance scheme could easily be arranged. May I suggest to some correspondents that personal abuse proves nothing, and that I have jet to see the accounts of any gardeners'sick or provident club which will approach the Post-office Savings-bank as a means of providing for old age or sickness. The usual rule is in these societies that some 40 per cent, of the money subscribed goes in commissions, salaries, and expenses, and that nearly one half the money is therefore lost to the members. This is not so in the Royal Benevolent, but this Society does not fill the place of a club which is a certain fund to every member ; it is good in its way, but it does not pro- vide for the future of all who pay ; it is a charity, pure and simple. One person states that I know nothing about gardeners or their wages. I know enough to be certain that it is one of the worst paid occupations, and that a man with equal skill and accumulated knowledge can make more money at al most any other k ind of work. My object in writing was simp'y to call attention to the fact that the gardeners could, amongst themselves, start a club on sound lines, which would ensure their families enough to give them an opportunity to stait again when the I'readwium r was gone, whether they were in abso- lute poverty or not. My statements are, so far as the infermation supplied goes, simple facts, ami it is in the interest of gardeners generally that 1 have taken the matter up ; the figures supplied will be a revelaticn to most if not all who have read them. As a further mild criticism on the management of the minor iusurance and friendly (so called) societies, it is interesting to learn fr >ui the Insurance blue book for 1890-97, that no fewer than forty-one have disappeared during the year, reported as either "gone" or in liquidation, and also that not one gardeners' society balance-sheet appears. As Btated in the introduction, "publicity means death to the insolvent.'' Mr. Monro's letter is clear and to the point, and I hope mine is equally so ; the only difference between us is that he is considering charity, 1 am considering pro- vision for the future for all whether they are' likely to need charity or not. Thos. Fletcher, Urctppcnhall, Cheshire. Owing to the courtesy of Mr. Thos. Fletcher in sending me a copy of his letter forwarded to you, I am able to reply to it in the same issue, and need not take up much of jour s. ace in doing so, as I can only argue on the basis of the Gardeners' Royal Benevolent Institution, as it is a "gardening charity'' and not as Mr. Fletcher etates it should be, xn insurance or benefit society. It was never intended to be anything of the kind. I am very pleased to see Mr. Fletcher's generous offer of £20 to the Treasurer if I can prove what 1 stated, as the Institution will benefit to that amuuLt. I am writing the Secretary e>n the matter, and if I overstated the case I will pay the amount. I am also glad to find that Mr. Fletcher is not a gardener, and that up to the present he has not found one to back up his criticism of the Institution, which goes far in my u ind to prove that the gardeners do approve of .he lines on which this charity is conducted. Mr. Fletcher's other remarks cover a wide field, and touch matters on which I cannot follow. Geo. Monro, Corent Garden Market. 34 THE GABLENEIiS1 CIHiONICLE. [July 9, 1S9S. • ■ In reply to your request for official informa- tion a? to the advantages to be gained by gardeners who subscribe to the Institution, I beg to refer you to, firstly, Rule III., 5, which provides that, gar- deners who have been subscribers for fifteen years may, if in need and eligible for assistance, be placed on the funds without election at £20 a year, and this applies equally to the widows of such at the lesser sum of £16 a year. Secondly, to Rule III., 10, uuder which a candidate who has subscribed from four to fourteen years is credited with a certain number of votes in proportion to the number of years he has subscribed ; and thirdly, to the " Victorian Era Fund,'' which is devoted exclusively to the benefit of sub- scribers, and from which a yearly sum is given to candidates according to the number of years' subscriptions, and until they are elected permanent pensioners. With regard to this latter fund, perhaps I cannot do better than give you the names of those candidates now on our list, the number of years they, or their late husbands subscribed, and the amount they will this year each r< ceive : — Name. Number of years Amount given Subsc ibed. for 189S. Andrew Bryan ... 13 ... £9 15 0 Francis Nixou 13 ... 9 15 0 James Plevy 12 ... 9 0 0 Geo. Staples 11 ... 8 5 0 Caroline Wood 11 S 5 0 John Gibbons 10 7 10 0 James Watt 10 7 10 0 Elizabeth HackweU 9 ... A 15 0 Geo. Wills 9 ... 0 1". 0 Alfred Barnfield ... 8 ... 6 0 0 Annie Hatch 8 ... 6 0 0 Lucy Mitchell 7 ... 5 5 0 Joseph Sheam 7 ... 5 5 0 Alex. Lee 5 ... 3 15 0 Thos. Evans 4 ... 3 0 0 W. Gould 2 ... 1 10 0 W. Thomas 2 ... 1 10 0 Emma Woodward i '.'.'. 15 0 I might also refer you to the case of Eleanor Brown, formerly a pensioner on our funds, who died quite recently. Her late husband subscribed £1 Is. yearly for sixteen years. Being in need, he applied at the age of 76 for assistance, and he was placed on the pension list. He died in 1875, when his widow made application to succeed to the pension. Her applica- tion being eligible, she was put on the funds under Rule III., 13, and she continued to enjoy the pension until a few weeks ago. This case speaks for itself. The husband subscribed altogether £16 16s., and he aud his wife between them received from the Insti- tution no less a sum than £468 ! George J. Ingram, Secretary. SCUTELLARIA ORIENTALIS VAR. PINNATIFIDA. — I raised my plant from seed collected in the Mountains of the Pelopanntse, and the name was given me by Dr. Heldreich, so it is probably correct ; otherwise it seems to coincide with the type as des- cribed in Nicholson's Dictionary. It is a very charming little Alpine. The bright yellow flowers stand well above the foliage, and as they all bloom at once they are very effective. Mr. Nicholson gives August as the flowering month, and my seedlings bloomed in August ; but the fully-grown plant flowers in June. I notice that M. Correvon offers both seed and plants of the type, so it is within any- one's reach. A. K. Bulky, West Kiriy, June 26. DIXON'S MIDSUMMER BROCCOLI. —I do notknow whether the variety of Broccoli mentioned by Mr. Burberry, p. 8, is in any way synonymous with the one we grow hero under the above name. In any ci.se it is an excellent variety for late consumption. At this place nice heads were cut on midsummer-day last, quite white, and very close in texture. This Broccoli has the, to me, desirable qualification that it is not over-large. The plants were grown on a north border, and were raised from seed sown at the end of the month of April, 1897. I got the Beed from a gar- dening friend in Yorkshire, who told me that he first procured his stock from the old-established firm of seedsmen, Messrs. Dixon & Sons, Hull. //. J. C, Grimston, Tadcasler. ARTIFICIAL MANURES.— The subject of artificial manures, when used with stable aud farmyard manures, is so important that I need not apologise for referring to it again once more, and only once. "J. P.," in the Gardeners' Chronicle of May 21, p. 317, relates that he uses, with satisfactory results, a mixture of aitificial manures aud animal manures. There seems, however, evidence to show that of two plo'.s with the same crop, one manured with animal manures, and the other with a mixture of animal and artificial manures, the result was the same. Now \l this be true, it would point tp the fact that the addition of artificial manures in such cases was use- less and wasteful. NitrateB are used for the sake of their nitrogen, and if the German experiments prove that this nitrogen, in contact with dung, escapes in its elementary form, it would seem absurd to mix the two. "J. P.'s " experience is not suffi- ciently convincing, for it seems to lack scien- tific accuracy. He does not say that he has ever made any test experiments — that is, manuring one plot with animal manures only, and an equal plot, with the same crop, with his mixture, to ascertain whether there would be any difference in the result. On so important a subject it would seem the function of the two great royal societies — the agricultural and the horticultural — to make a series of accurate experiments to try and discover what truth, and how much of it, there is in " de- nitrification" by contact with animal manures. "J. P.'s'" mixture might be used on one plot, and animal manures on a similar plot, and other varia- tions. The soil and crop must be the same, and the previous crop should be noted, as it might affect the result. This important question cannot be solved by one experiment. A series of careful and accurate experiments will have to be made, in order to elimi- nate any sources of error. There was a profound practical notion that Potatoa must be earthed-up, in order to ensure a crop ; and it was only the other day that at Chiswick the R.H.S. found that earthing- up and not earthing-up gave exactly the same result. What a waste of labour then has been for ages devoted to growing Pctatos by the earthing-up method ! So it may be with many other conven- tional and traditional notions. Laboratory experi- ments conducted with all possible scientific accuracy are very useful, but they require to be tested and confirmed on a large scale in agricultural and horticul- tural operations, and these can be only done by the two Royal Societies. Experiments b'y private firms, and also by amateurs, may help to bring out the truth from what now appears a sort of tangle of contra- dictions. E. Bonavia, M.D. THE SPARROW.— The above-named homely bird by its friends is considered to possess many virtues, and by its enemies is ranked as a most destructive bird, to be destroyed without mercy at all costs ; but, as usual, the golden mean or moderate course I consider the best way of dealing with this hardy, active, cheerful bird. I have noticed on these last two days swarms of sparrows eating the caterpillars that are still on the Oak trees, and which have now entered the chrysalis stage. In the caterpillar or feeding stage, the sparrows did not seem to eat them ; rooks and starlings seemed to be living on them, but now the rooks have gone to the farms for grubs, small Potatos, &c, and the starlings for Cherries and the cattle- pastures and sheepfolds, and the Bparrows, chaffinches, and titmice of various varieties are busy eating the chrysalis of the various looper caterpillar on forest and fruit trees, within 60 yards of where I noticed the sparrows so busy, both old and young, on the Oak trees. We have several good rows of Peas that are in bearing, and I have not noticed a single pod damaged by sparrows, that it seems they sometimes at least prefer insect f ood,to pulse or grain. R. M. , Newbury, June 28. STERCULIA NEO-CALEDONICA.— The remarks on Sterculia neo-caledcnica on p. 178 of your issue of March 26 last, interest me. The name appears to be a mistake, unless austro caledonica is a mistake in Bot. Mag., t. 7382. We have two plants of S. austro- caledonica, Hook. f. (Bot. Mag), which grow well in the open in this garden, and flower every spring. The description given in the Gardeners' Chronicle applies entirely to our plant, with the exception that our leaves are only about 1 foot in diameter, as against "some 4 feet in diameter," and 2 feet in diameter of the Bot. Mag. Toe plants are singularly graceful, Aralia-like, and their crown of leaves is 4 or 5 feet in diameter. Perhaps "W. W." is refening to the crown as 4 feet in diameter, but the construc- tion of the sentence would appear to be against this idea. /. II. Maiden, Sydney. ANT DESTROYERS.— Noticing a reply to a cor- respondent's inquiiy in last week's Gardeners' Chronicle, for a remedy for the extirpation of ants iu a Peach-house, alluw me to call his attention to the Balhkinraiii Ant Destroyer, which he will find most effectual if used according to the directions accompanjing it. A few years ago, this place was completely over-run with the voracious black ant, which played havoc with ripe fruit, and especially with Figs. I tried several remedies, but failed to reduce their numbers, until Mr. Hughes, the gar- dener at Wentworth-Woodhouse, came to the rescue. His interesting letter in the Gardeners' Chronicle a few years ago showing how be succeeded in exterminat- ing ants from glasshouses determined me to try the effects of the Ballikinrain Ant Destroyer. Its use has rid me of these little plagues very effectually. Surely, it would pay the vendors, Messrs. Cross k. Sons, Glasgow, to adveitise the destroyer in the horticultural papers, as scarcely a week passes but that some one is enquiring in the gardening papers for an ant extermimtur. J. Easter, Nostell Priory Gardens. AN EXPLOSION OF WEEDKILLER.— A customer of ours, who a few days since purchased two tins of weed-killer, in the form of powder, from a local chemist, has reported the following extraordinary occurrence. For security he placed the unopened parcel containing the two tins on the top 6helf of his conservatory, and on the afternoon of the second day later a loud explosion took place, the ends of both tins being blown out, and the contents scattered throughout the house, ruining practically the whole of the plants, many being dead within a day, and the remainder so badly scalded and disfigured that they will probably not survive. Whether the explosion was caused by sun heat, or whether— though the tins are apparently air-tight — atmospheric moisture had entered and caused a chemical combustion of the contents is unknown, but it would perhaps be well for users to provide against either contingency by keeping in a cool, dry place. C. P. & Co. VINES AND RICHARDS' XL-ALL.— Having read in the Gardeners' Chronicle o( July 2, A.J. Nightingale's experience with the use of XL-All vaporiser, I should like to state that I have used it very successfully for two years in a vinery planted with black Hamburgh, Foster's Seedling, black Alicante, and filled with a miscellaneous collection of plants. I have always found the vapour performed its work t atisfactorilyand without causing the slightest injury to any of the Vines or plants. I have uEed it in the plant-Btove without damage to any plants. Perhaps your correspondent, " A. J. Nightingale," made a too-free use of it, which may account for the damage done. E. H. Chitty, Chomcly Lodge Gardens, Highgate. ESCALLONIA PHILIPPIANA.— A plant so named, now in blown in a friend's garden, has deliriously sweet-scented white flowers. Has the new hybrid Escallonia langleyeusis inherited this peculiarity ? I do not find in Nicholson's Dictionary any allusion to a sweet-scented species. W. Thomson, Bithop's Tcignton. ^They are all -more or lees aromatic. Ed.] Societies. ROYAL HORTICULTURAL. Meeting- of the Committees at Chiswick. THE FLORAL COMMITTEE. July 5.— The following momhevs met at the gardens of the Society on the above date, viz., W. Marshall, Esq., chairman, W. Fain, E. Beckett, E. T. Cook, D. R. Crane, R. Dean, J. H. Fitt, J. Fraser, G. Gordon, H. Heibst, W. Howe, H. J Jones, J. Laing. Senr., J. F. McLeod, H. B. May, C. E. Pearson, C. J. Salter, T. W. Sanders, U. Selfe Leonard, G. Stevens, Owen Thomas, and J. Walker. The object of the meeting was toexrmine the Violas, ot which there is a large number of varieties new aud old. It must be admitted that the conditions at Chiswick are not favourable to such a trial. To do them justice they need a clear, open, airy spot, free from atmospheric impu- rities, and where there is a fairly stiff, gritty soil. Then, to still further accentuate the test, the varieties should be plmtcd out in the autumn, and then, if of hardy constitution, they will become well established in the soil, an 1 afford a fairly good estimate of their value. Violas plauted out in spring do not afford a fair test by tho first week in July. They have not become acclimatised to tho somewhat antago- nistic conditions which prevail at Chiswick ; nor have they had time to become well established in the soil, so as to display their capabilities. Another advantage gained from autumn planting would be to afford a test of early flowering, for a race of early blooming Violas of hardy con- etitution is badly wanted in the spring garden. It is to be hoped that before long the Society will be able to provido itself with a new gatden in some open. Lucy spot, where important 1 1 ials can be carried out, in the assurance that the best results may be expected to follow. The following varieties received throe marks :— Iona, mauve and blue-black, one of the most striking varieties yet raised; Mrs, U Bellamy, pale lavender and deep purple; July 9, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 35 Marchioness, for compactness of habit, freedom of bloom purity and shape, the best white yet raised ; Bullion, for its carliness and persistency among the yellow Violas ; Countess of Hopetoun, an old but very useful white, much employed for bedding purposes; Sir Robert Puller, a largo purple variety, a strong grower ; J. B. Riding, pale, mauve-claret ; Jack-a-napes, yellow lower petals with crimson top, inferior in shape ; Diana, pale lavender-blue ; Wrayman, white, very like Countess of Hopetoun, but moie compact habit ; Mrs. C. F. Gordon, a great improvement upon Countess of Kin- tore, very handsome ; Duchess of Fife; Haimish, claret lower petals, with pale top petals ; Princess Louise, a small pale yellow of fine form ; and Blue Gown, a very fine deep mauve bedding variety. Generally the Violas were suffering from drought in the light porous soil of Chiswick. FRO IT AND VEGETABLE COMMITTEE. The attendance of members was, for Chiswick, unusually largo, and included Mr. P. Crowley, chairman, Rev. W. Wilks, secretary, and Messrs. H. Baldorson, G. Bunyard, A. F. Barron, W. Bates, J. Cheal, W. Crump, A. Dean, W. H. Divers, W . Farr, R. Fyfe, C. Herrin, J. Laing, F. Q. Lane, G. Norman, R. Parker, W. Pope, W. Poupart, J. Smith, J. II. Veitch, II. W. Ward, J. Willard, G. Woodward, and G. Wythes. An odd exhibit, to which attention was called, was a number of Mallett's patent market sieves and pecks, made of narrow strips of wood, with small openings betwecu for ventilation, fixed into stout flat hoops, top and bottom, the bottoms resembling those of bont-wood chairs, nunieruusly perforated with holes, also for air. They arc very stout and enduring, and much superior articles for fruit transit than are the UBual w cker-made round baskets of the London markets. The price was not stated. Tbe patent baskets were sent through Mr. G. Bunyard, and are said to be of Rus&ian make. Their value for marketing largely depends on price. It was agreed to leave a few of each size to be used in the gardens for trial ; certainly the best test would have been made by somo market gardener. Messrs. Laxton &, Sons exhibited fruits of the new Straw- berry Thos. Laxton, the product of a cross between Jas. Veitch and Royal Sovereign. The fruits, which were of good size and colour, seemed to favour the first-named parent mostly. The large fiuits were mellow, but flavour was lacking ; also were submitted some very fine rich-coloured fruits, and a plant lifted from the ground of Mentmore, a variety that obtained an Award of Merit last year at Chiswick, when it was eo good. This is from a cross between Noble and British Queen. The product is a very firm, solid, fine, rich-coloured fruit, that is, as acid as Sir C. Napier, but it has little flavour ; evi- dently it will make a capital traveller. The Strawberries growing in the gardens seem to have suffered firstly from tbe late spring- frosts, and secondly from lack of moisture ; as, the soil is naturally so porous, that nearly all the plants seemed to be flagging. Scvei al new varieties were examined ; the only one which received an Award was Laxton's Ber- nard. The fruits are of middle size, distinctly plum- shaped, rich in colour, and of excellent flavour. It is evi- dently a good cropper. This received an Award of Merit. Thos. Carlyle (Laxton) was a hi^h- flavoured variety ; but the present season's crop, from the causes named, was not good enough to entitle the variety to an Award. Several excel- lent breadths of Cabbage and Cos Lettuces were seen. An Award of Merit was given to Crystal Palace, a curled and firm-hearted Cabbage Lettuce. No other award was made ; but amongst others, the stock of Hicks' Hardy White Cos was much admired. Ph:as were the worst lot seen here at any time; growth has been singularly bad, although the ground had been deeply worked and manured, and tbe sowings were thin. The statement of the President at the luncheon, that the garden seemed to be worn out, so far as certain produce was con- cerned, is well sustained by the appearance of the Feas ihis season ; but it seems probable that a very special cause of the indifferent growth of some things is more due to the garden's atmosphere and surroundings than to even the worn nature of the soil. The early Peas only were fit for examination. Tbe best were Dickson's Harbinger, 3 ft., a capital and nice- flavoured variety. An Award of Merit was given to Thos. Laxton, 5 feet high, an early Ne Plos Ultra ; also to Drum- mond's New Pea, 6 feet in he'ght, having a Telephone like pod, containing sweet, green seeds. Veitch's Acme, 4 feet in height, firBt early, having medium-sized and well-filled pods, received a similar award ; and that previously made to that excellent early variety Gradus was confirmed. It is to bo feared that trials of Peas at Chiswick cannot be in future satisfactory, and it would be well if the Council would tcm- pararily hire a few acres of grou d in the country where good and satisfactory trials could be ensured. ISLE OF WIGHT ROSE. June 20.— The annual exhibition was beld in the pictu- resque grounds of Carisbrooke Castle on Coronation Day. In the open classes, Mr. B. R. Cant, Colchester, was 1st for a collection of twenty-four Roses, distinct varieties; and Messrs. F. Cant & Co. were 2nd. Messrs. F. Cant & Co. were lat for twelve distinct Teas or Noisettes, for eight distinct varieties in trebles, for twelve blooms of any one variety, and for twelve bunches of garden-Roses. Mr. B. R. Cant secured the Silver Medal for tbe best Rose of any sort in the show, with Mrs. John Laing ; and Mr. J. O. Bkook was 1st in the amateurs' class for eighteen Roses, distinct varieties. In the Isle of Wight classes, Mrs. Croft Muhray secured the Isle of Wight Silver Challenge Cup for twenty -four distinct Roses. Mrtjor O. Moulton Barrett obtained the Queen's Gold Medal for twelve distinct Roses, and Mrs. Ckoft Murray the Silver-gilt Medal for twelve distinct Teas. < NORFOLK AND NORWICH HORTI- CULTURAL ROSE SHOW. June 20.— The annual Rose show of the Norfolk and Nor- wich Horticultural Society was held on the above date in the picturesque Bracondale Woods, lent for the purpose by Mr. RussblJ. Colman. Unfortunately for the entire success of what is always anticipated as a very attractive function, the weather was threatening nearly the whole of the day, and showers fell intermittently during the hours when the largest attendance is usually anticipated. The heavy rains of the last few weeks also militated against tuch an effective display as is generally seen at this show. Though the entries for Roses were quite as numerous as in the previous years, tbe number actually exhibited was much smaller. In many of the classes no award was made. Such exhibits as there were, however, constituted an attractive though small display. The deficiency in respect to the Roses — the principal fe iture, of course, of the show — was amply compensated for by the fino collection of cut-flowers. The Committee had made a special effort to secure a large entry, by offering additional and special prizes, and they were rewarded by an entry that was a great deal better than any of recent years. The tent was a blaze of rich and delicate colours, and though assistance to the general effect was lout by professional exhibitors who did not compete, the Society is to bo con- gratulated upon a very effective collection. This marquee was well patronised all the afternoon, and commanded the principal attention. The display of pot plants was inferior to that of previous years, but there was a fair show of Fuchsias and Pelargoniums. In the Rose tent, Mr. B. R. Cant secured 1st prize for forty-eight blooms, though with an exhibit much inferior to his usual contribution. Messrs. F. Cant & Son were 2nd, the effect of the weather being especially noticeable on tho outer petals. For thirty-six blooms there was only one exhibitor, Miss Peniuce, of Witton, being awarded 2nd prize. A fine example of Li France by this lady was, however, awarded the Medal for tbe best hybrid perpetual in the show. In the class for twenty-four blooms, Mr. T. C. Blofeld was some way ahead of CoL Rous. For eighteen bloomB, the Rev. A. Fellowes was an easy 1st with a very fine lot, most of which belonged to the Toa or hybrid Tea section. One specimen in this collection was awarded the Medal for the Tea-scented class. For twelve varieties, Mr. E. E. Bourchier secured highest honours. In the class for twelve blooms, open to amateurs only, Mrs. W. W. Hammond (Eye), was 1st with some very good blooms, Teas again being well represented. Messrs. Paul & Son were 1st for twelve new Roses. Miss P^nrice, with some superb specimens of La France, secured the premier position in that class, and she also scored in the cla*-s for twelve Teas. In the cut-flower tent, the class for hardy herbaceous perennials was a magnificent display ; Mossrs. Burrell & Co., of Cambridge, were 1st; Mrs. Petrie 2nd, and Mr. Charles Jacob:, of Ipswich, 3rd. All the usual classes were well lilled with more than ordinarily good examples, stalks being strong, and blooms large. One of the principal exhi- bitors was Mr. R. C. Notcutt, of Ipswich and Woodbridgc, but he did not compete. This stand was one of the features of the tent, being a flame of varied colour, and containing horticultural ex »mples that were as novel as they weio attractive. In this connection, it may be said generally that the show gained much from the liberal exhibits of local and other nurserymen, who helped to make less noticeable the exten- sive gaps in the competing entries, and furnished delightful collections of floral beauties that did much to redeem what would otherwise have been as a Rose show — something in the nature of a failure. As it was, the show was fairly .successful. Extract /rum the " EaU Anglian Times," Jvly 1. ISLE OF WIGHT HORTICULTURAL IMPROVEMENT. June 30.— Over fifty members and friends of tho Islo of Wight Horticultural Improvement Association made a visit on the above date to Messrs. Sutton & Sons', of Reading. An inspection was made of the seoi-stores, offices, warehouses, trial -grounds, greenhouses, &c. The hospitality extende 1 to the visitors they now desire 1o acknowledge. July 2.— Tbe monthly meeting was held at Sandown, Mr. T. Gibbs being elected to the chair. The exhibits were numerous, ad of first-rate quality, and wero thrown open to the public free of charge during the afternoon. Mr. A. Cole, Broadlands, Sandown, staged a group of mis- cellaneous flowering and fjliage plants, and Mr. J. 11. Perkin, Los Altos, Sandown, staged a group of miscellaneous stove and greenhouse foliage and flowering plants, aid a stand of Roses. Messrp. Cole and Perkin were each awarded a Certificate for their excellent exhibits. In the evening Mr. W. C. Moseley, of Bonchurch, read a paper on "Meteorology in relation to Gardening," which contained some invaluable advice to gardeners on the struc- ture, uses, and management of thermometers, barometers, hygrometers, rain-gauges, and sunshine recorders. Mr. Moseley brought several meteorological instruments, and explained them in detail to a large audience. Several new members were elected, the total number now being 270. THE NATIONAL VIOLA. July 2. — This modost society, which was established a few years ago bv a few enthusiastic admirers and cultivators of Pansies ami Violas, held its exhibition of blooms at the Crystal Palace on Saturday last. This could not be regarded as other th in an unfortunate occurrence, seeing the abundant attractions tho Rose has for everyone, and Saturday saw the festival of tho National Rose Society at the same place. The ordinary man cmnot divide his affections, any moro than he can serve two masters, hence the poor little display of the National Viola Society was not much visited, and by m my would be pissed by unnoticed. This, of course, is very sad, but it is the fate of most gardening fads that appeal to the few— not the many. Tho Royal Horticultural Society has .ymp;tthies wide enough to absorb most, if not all, tho special societies ; and fellows sufficiently interested in the particular flowers tho specialists favour to iosuro tho proper amount of attention being paid them. Ho jv poor and mean seems a Pansy when shown in a gigantic building as is tho Crystal Palace !— a small tent erected on a cool green lawn, in tho shade of fino trees, like tho shows of Carnations we have sometimes seen at Chiswick, would be a far more suitable and congenial site. Tho exhibits wero shown on two tables, placed in front of the orchestra, and here were to be seen the stand of forty- eight sprays of Violas, distinct, set up by Messrs. Isaac House & Son, of Westbury-on-Trym, BriBtol, which received a 2nd prize only, and the additional award of a Silver Medal. The flowers wero disposed in flat, triangular sprays of about a dozen blooms together, on a nearly erect stand, covered with dark-coloured velvot, so the adjuncts wore favourable for setting off" the colours of the Violas. Pretty varieties were noted in Admiration, deep blue with a dark centre ; Isa Fergusson, dark-purple and deep violet, a telling com- bination of tints when viewed closely; Hamish, bright- purple ; Iona, light blue, with darker blotches ; A. J. Rowberry, tho well-known yellow self; Border-witch, light- blue, and centre white ; Sheelab, Magic, a good form, of roBy- purple tint, &r. For twenty-four sprays of Violas, distinct, the best camo from Mr. M. Campbell, of Blantyre, N.B. These flowers had more substance than the south country blooms, and they were b gger and brighter. We remarked nice blooms of Butterfly, the three lower segments white, edged with purplo, upper segments also purple ; Lord Salisbury, a lomon-yellow-coloured bloom ; Dorothy Stokes, white ; Stub- hill Gem, deep purple and light blue ; and Sissy Mellow. Messrs. J. Cheal & Sons, Crawley, took the 2nd place, having Colleen Bawn, The Mearns, J. B. Riding, Duchess of Fife, White Duchess, Trentham Purple, Sweet Lavender, foe. Compared with the northern flowers, these lacked substance and size. The 3rd prize fell to Mr. W. Baxter, of Woking, who showed a pretty stand of self coloured blooms, Silver Birr and Nellie Barr, Endymion, Florizelle, Magnificent, and H. M. Stewart being the more superior varieties. Mr. Campbell took 1st for twelve Violas, distinct, shown in glass cups, the varieties being similar to what he had shown in other classes ; Messrs. I. House & Son taking 2nd place. The best twelve sprays of Violas cimo from Mr. D. B. Crane, of Highgate, 1st ; and Messrs. I. House & Son, 2nd, The first-named had good blooms of Pembroke, a yellow solf ; Devonshire, creamy white ; rosea pallida, and White Empress. The 2nd prize winner had Blue Gown, Cooper O'Fogo, and Florizelle. Mr. Baxter, Woking, was awarded a First-class Certificate for Endymion, a fine yellow solf Viola, of perfect outline. Messrs. I. House & Son were 1st for twenty-four varieties of Violas, distinct, as shown in specimen glasses. Most of these varieties they had shown in other stands, the exception being Christiana, white ; Cissy Thornley, purple and white ; Blue Cloud, white, with thin blue edging; Lady Reah, Flower of the Day, Acme, a fine purple self; and Peggy Smith, a pleasing red-purple. 2nd, Mrs. C. C. Lowe, Rvhall, Stamford ; excellent were Lady Amory, of two shades of purple ; Archie Grant, Truo Blue, and Bullion. The best twelve sprays of Violas, six blooms each, distinct varieties, were shown by Mr. D. B. Crane ; and in another class for six Bprays, Mr. Leonard Brown was the exhibitor of the best flowers. In this lot were Mrs. C. F. Gordon, blue and whito, very pretty; and Mrs. W. Greenwood, a yellow self of much merit. There were a few minor classes for Violas shown as sprays in glasses. Mr. D. B. Crane wa awa ded a 2nd prize for six sprays of rayless varieties of Violas, showing Devonshire Cream, Mary e'eott, Pembroke, White impress, Florizelle, and another. In aclass for Violas having blooms not exceeding 1} huh in diameter, Mr. L. Brown won with Bessie. Canary Bird, and Violetta. The Pansies,— Forty-eight sprays distinct, Mr. M. Campbell of Blantyre, naturally came to the front with his fine large blooms of much substance, and appearing in all the beauty of tints we are accustomed to observe in Scottish Pansies. The finest blooms were J. B. Irvine, John Menz'es, D. Russel, M. A. Scott, Mrs. W. Steele, Jno. Lawrence. Mr. Campbell was likewise 1st for twenty-four Pansies in distinct fancy varieties, among which we noted Anne Rosa, Sir J. Watson, Mrs. W. Watson, Marmion, D. Morrison, D. C. McKay, and Maggie Goodlet; 2nd, Messrs. I. House A [ SON, in this instan e the flowers were but little nferior to thoso from Scotland. The finest twelve varieties of fancy Pansies were shown by Mr. Campbell, amongst which were noticed extra good flowers of G. Sprout, Col. Buchanan, Mrs. R. Stewart, 36 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 0, 189S. B. Doulton, J. Menziee, and D. Johnstone. Messrs. House & Son took the 2nd position. The best six distinct varieties of Pansies were shown by Mr. B. G. Sinclair, a London cultivator, consisting of nice examples of Ardwell Gem, Masterpiece, Norah May, Grace Blathorpe, Countess of Kintore, and Lady Isabel. Table decorations, in which Pansies and Violas formed the major portion, were not numerous, and most of them erred on the side of an undue use of the flowers, to the lamentable exclusion of greenery as a foil to colour in the former. The prettiest device was quite a small one, consisting chiefly of pale blue Vi> las, sparingly used, Smilax (Myrsiphylluni) and Maidenhair Fern. Tbe chief exhibitor, if not the only one, was Mr. W. Sydenham, of Tamwortb. This exhibitor obtained the National Viola Society's Gold Medal for an exhibit consisting of a large stand of Viola spray?, forty- eight in all. THE SCOTTISH HORTICULTURAL ASSOCIATION. J(jne 25. — A good muster of members proceeded to the Redbraes Nurseries on Saturday, June 25, on the invitation of Mr. J. Grieve, to spend an evening among his Violas. The President, Mr. Todd, and many others, were present. There was a very general consensus of opinion that, if ycu want to see the finest Violets in their most perfect form, you must see them growing in lines, beds, or borders in such a nursery as that of Messrs. J. Grieve & Sons. Here each variety, though repeating its merits or revealing its defects, renders either more apparent or pronounced, and few could carefully scan over 100 or more varieties of the best Violas without having learned a good deal more concerning: them. In addition to a large collection of named varieties, there are many hundreds of seedlings, and these have to satisfy the exigent owner of the nursery before they are honoured by a name. The " Father of Violas," as Mr. Grieve is very properly called, while cognisant of the merits of a flower, is also severe as a judge, and quick to discover blemishes and shortcomings. I cannot mention many names of varieties, but would only say that Joseph still maintains its popularity, and that Peter Barr, which hardly looks as if it were firmly and finally fixed in colour and quality, promises to become a rich and delicate flower. Raisers are hardly likely to be oblivious to the demand that is springing up in various directions for earlier and later-blooming Violas, with a more perpetual habit of floweriug than our present race exhibits. We all recognise the influence for good or evil of soil and site, and of good methods of culture, on the develop- ment of the plants, and the fixing of all sorts of admirable qualities. Still, it seems quite possible to raise varieties of the Viola specially for early, late, and continuous blooming. An inspection of the Violas absorbed most of the evening, although the visitors had time to note the large numbers of Carnations, Pinks, hardy herbaceous plants, Sweet Peas, Dahlias, &c, grown. Indoors, Tomatos, Ferns, Palms, fine- foliage, furnishing and bedding plants, &c, were every- where. I noted here, as elsewhere, that Pelargoniums are once more in the running among fashionable bedding and furnishing plants. Mr. Todd conveyed the warmest thanks of the Association to Kr. Grieve for his genial and hospitable reception, happily comparing his position at Redbraes with Violas to the right of him, and Violas to the left of him, Violas in front, and Violas behind, to the Russian cannon converging on the fated Light Brigade at Balaclava. Mr. Grieve replied with a hearty welcome. Mr. Todd brought an interesting exhibit to the meeting, a bunch of Sweet Peas, cut from his own garden in the open air at Musselburgh. They were sown in heat early in February, and plauted out at the end of the month of May, staked at once, this staking being their sole protection. The flowers were as clean and spotless as if they had been grown under glass this cold late summer. July 5. — An interesting meeting of the Society was held at 5, St. Andrew Square on the above date, Mr. M. Todd, the President, in the chair. Aarong the exhibits shown were some fine blooms of the white and pink Souvenir de la Malmaison Carnations, shown by Mr. Rutherford, Bridge of Allan, which were said by those who were present to equal any that were staged at tho Royal Horticultural Society's Temple Show. A Cultural Cer- tificate was awarded. Also a collection of seedling Carnations by Mr. John Mintv, Riverdene, Cook bam, Berks, among which a white variety of great promise, named Nethridge, secured a First class Certificate. There was also an interesting collection of some hardy plants shown, including a double white and a semi-double white Clematis. The all too seldom seen— in the North— Buddleia globosa, the very pretty semi-Hawthorn-scented, white flowering shrub—all too seldom seen in ferneries' rock-work, or the front row of shrubberies, Helichrysum rosniarini folium — perhaps more generally known as Ozothamnus (rosmarinifolium, a pretty name J for this bright New Zealand shrub— which is considered to be scarcely hardy in Scotland. But here was a fine spike from a garden near Edinbuigh, in full blossom, on the 5th of July. In the absence of Mr. J. McIntvrk, of Woodside Gardens, Darlington, the assistant secretary, Mr. G. H. Murray, read his paper on " Crotons." Mr. Fish praised the brevity and lucidity of Mr. MclNTYRE'spaper, in most of which he agreed, and made a few remarks on the change of names from Crotons to Codueums. Mr. Todd, in moving a vote of thanks to Mr. Mclntyre, referred to his experience of Crotons, in selling them, and how soon he found them become deciduous plants in his hands ; and called upon Mr. Thomson, as Director of the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society, to give his impres- sion of the first great Temple Show he had attended in London. This gentleman apologised for attempting to do what already had been so well and fully done by the Horti- cultural Press. He began by praising the place, which he described as grand. The fine crowded tents for a three days' show. The third point that seemed to have struck Mr. Thomson most was that there were no money prizes offerred or given, but nearly 100 awards in the form of gold and silver enps, medals, and certificates. Then the Rose?, Orchids, Fruits, Cacti, Rockeries, Cut Flowers, and the past, as it were, reappearing with the pre- sent, through several exhibits of hard-wooded plants, pro- minent among which were several of Leschenaultia biloba major, L. violacea, L. formosa. On the whole, the great show struck Mr. Thomson as being singularly free from rubbish, and he hoped soon to see another— and, perhaps, a fruit show —at the Crystal Palace. After a hearty vote of thanks to Mr. Thomson and the President, it was announced that the Strawberry meet of the Association would be on Wednesday, July 20th, at (> p.m., and the business meeting at 7.30— both at 5, St. Andrew Square. D. T. F. WARGRAVE AND DISTRICT GAR- DENERS' MUTUAL IMPROVEMENT. June 29.— An ordinary monthly meeting of the above Society was held on the above date in the Parish Room, Wargrave, Mr. W. Pope presiding. Mr. T. Haskett, gr. to J. W, Rhodes, Esq., Hennerton, read a capital paper on " Roses." He referred specially to hybrid perpetuals and Teas, and advised inteuding Rose- growers to visit a good nursery in June or July to inspect the stock, when the various kinds and colours could be noted and chosen. A second way of obtaining good Roses was to propagate one's own by budding, grafting, or cuttings. The soil, method, and time of pruning, Rose-pests and their remedies, were in turn taken up, and a most profitable dis- cussion afterwards took place, many members detailing their experience. Mr. W. Pope, gr. to J. P. White, Esq., of The Willows, was awarded a Certificate of Cultural Merit for a fine group of seedling Streptocarpus. WITHAM HORTICULTURAL. June 29.— The second Annual Show of the Withani Horti- cultural Society was held in The Park, Withani, on the above- mentioned date in beautiful weather. The Committee, and Dr. Scott, the courteous Hon. Secretary, are to be com- plimented upon the excellent arrangements, and the success which attended their efforts to make the Show a success. Cut-flowers were well shown in the ope a classes by Messrs. D. Prior & Son, Messrs. Wallace & Co., both of Colchester, and Mr. S. Kerry, gr. to C. W. Parker, Esq., Hatfield Priory, Withani, who took the prize* in the order in which their names appear for twenty four varieties of hardy herbaceous flowers, which were well chosen and set-up in glasses. Mr. B. R. Cant, Colchester, was easily first for thirty-six Roses, distinct. Mr. H. Godfrey, gr. to Lord Rayleigh, was 1st for eighteen Roses ; Lady Ducank securing 1st honours for a good stand of twelve varieties of herbaceous flowers ; being closely followed by Mr. 8. Kerry, who was also 1st for six of Gloxinias, staging well-grown and evenly. flowered plants, and for a stand of twelve bunches of stove and greenhouse flowers, as well as for a collection of six kinds of vegetables, artistically arranged in a shallow circular basket, and which arrangement secured for Mr. Kerry special recognition, in addition to money prize offered for the produce so tastefully set up, as an inducement to other exhibitors to follow the example thus set them at future shows. The vegetables consisted of fine, even, clean tubers of Veitch's Ashleaf Kidney Potatos, six weeks' Turnip, Carter's Perfection Tomato, Exonian Peas, Model Carrots, and Purple Arti- chokes. Table decorations, button-holes, and sprays made a fine show in themselves, the flowers selected and the arrange- ment of same beingeverything that could be desired. //. W. W. loom (Agaricus campestris) is grown, and of it 5, CG0 lb. have been produced in a month. The Mushrooms are here raised under the most favourable conditions, and the greatest facilities are also afforded for their speedy transit by rail. Thus it was remarked that the Mushrooms partaken of at breakfast in London, bad probably been ordered and despatched from Edinburgh the previous evening. Ten years ago MushrooniB were imported from France in quantities, and although the demand for them has now greatly increased, their importation has considerably diminished. This has come about to some extent on account of the large and con- stant supply from the Mushroom beds in Scotland-Street Tunnel, 00 feet under the pavement of a large city. On the Saturday following (July 2) the society had an entomological excursion to Dalmeny Park, special attention being given to the Diptera, or two-winged flies, and a number of interesting specimens was collected. The captures in other orders of insects included a common blue butterfly, Lycama icarus, an interesting species of brachelytrous beetle, found io a decaying tree-trunk, two species of humble-bee, one solitary bee (Andrena), two species of lace-wing fly (Chiysopa), &c. All the orders of insects were represented among the specimens collected. MANCHESTER AND NORTH OF ENGLAND ORCHID. June 30.— At the last meeting of this Society at the Coal Exchange, Manchester, there were present Messrs. W. Thompson (in the chair), Shorland Ball, Hodgkinson, Green- wood, Leemann, Bolton, Backhouse, Cypher, Stevens, Johnson, and Mills (Hon. Sec,). D. B. Rappart, Esq., Liscard (gr., Mr. Nicholson), showed a very fine plant of Cattleya Gaskelliana alba, which was awarded a First-class Certificate. S. Gratrix, Esq.,Whalley Range(gr., Mr. McLeod), showed Cattleya Wagneri, with small flower] which the committee expressed a desire to see again when stronger ; C. M. Reineckiana ( Award of Merit), and Ladia tene- brosa, with excellent dark lip, but a little weak in sepals and petals (Award of Merit). Mrs. Briqch-Bury, Accrington (gr , Mr. Wilkinson), showed La-lio-Cattleya Fire King, a mag- nificent form (First-class Certificate) ; Cypripediuin Gertrude Hollington, one of the largest flowers we have seen of this variety (First-class Certificate); and Odontoglossum crispum Marianne (Award of Merit). O. O. Wriolev, Esq., Bury (gr , Mr. Rogers), showed Cypripediuin bellatulum album (First- class Certificate). J. Leemann, Esq., Heaton Mersey {gr , Mr. Edge), showed Ladio-Cattleya Arnoldiana, very fine (First-class Certificate); Odontoglossum Pescatorei album (Award of Merit) ; Cattleya Mendeli, O. crispum, Cypri- pediumT. W. Bond, C. bellatulum, C. Hookeri Volonteanum. and Ladia grandis tenebrosa. Thomas Statter, Esq., White- field (gr., Mr. Johnson), showed a very good form of Cypri- pedium Conco-bellatulum (Award of Merit), and Ladia stilata (harpophylla x tenebrosa). Wm. Bolton, Esq., Warrington (gr., Mr. Cain), showed L;. lia tenebrosa, Cattleya gigas gigantea, very fine flower (Award of Merit) ; Cattleya Mossm-, and Cattleya species, a very curious mottled flower in the way of Mossia;, The same exhibitor also showed two plants of Odonto- glossum crispum, spotted varieties, one of which obtained an Award of Merit. W. H Almond, Esq , Blackburn (gr., Mr. Hurst), showed Cattleya Mossiaa and C. M. Ernesti. Mr. Thomas Holden, Royton, showed Cattleya Men- deli ; Mr. James Cypher, Cheltenham, showed Caltleya Mossiff delicatissima (Award of Merit), C. Warneri, a very good dark form ; Thunia Winniana (Award of Merit), Odon- toglossum maculatum x cordatum (Award of Merit), and Dendrobium Bensonre niajus. EDINBURGH FIELD NATURALISTS1 AND MICROSCOPICAL. June 29.— Tbe members of this Society paid a visit last week (Wednesday) to the Mushroom-beds in Scotland- Street Tunnel, Edinburgh. The various features in connection with the method of Mushroom culture here were examined. The mycelium or spawn is supplied by a firm in London, embedded in small cakes composed of earth and manure, and the subsequent rapid increase of the spawn was noted witb much interest. The tunnel, which was first used for its present purpose in 1887, after having been abandoned for twenty years by the railway company, is about three-quarters of a mile in length, and contains about 800 beds, each measuring 12 feet by 3 feet. On the beds Mushrooms at all stages of growth were seen, from the tiny button to the size most suitable for tho market, and which requires about a month to reach matur ty. Only the common Mush- NATIONAL ROSE. July 2.— The annual Metropolitan Exhibition of the National Rose Society was held on the above date, in glorious weather, at tho Crystal Palace. The quality of the blooms was much better than it was feared a month ago would bo the case, and generally the display was a very satisfactory one. On this occasion the nave was again available, and in this and the central transept were arranged the stands. Mr. E. B. Lindsell won the Amateur's Champion Trophy, Mr. Hill Cray the Amateur's Trophy for Teas, and Mr. B. R. Cant the Nurseryman's Champion Trophy for the best seventy-two blooms. NURSERYMEN. Seventy-two blooms, distinct varieties.— The Champion Trophy and 1st prize was won by Mr. B. R. Cant, of Colchester, with a capital collection. His varietus were Ulrich Brunner (very large), Cleopatra (very pretty bloom), Alfred Colomb, Marie Finger, Marquise de Litta, Madame Jules Finger, Gustave Piganeau, Caroline Testout, Heinrich Schultheiss, La France, Duke of Edinburgh (largo, good bloom, of much substance), White Lady, Comtosse do Ludre, Catherine Mermet, Dr. Andry, Mrs. John Laing, Horace Vernet, Madame Gabrielle Luizet, Thomas Mills (good), Mrs. Sharman Crawford, Mario Baumano, Luly Mary Fitzwilliam, Comte de Raimbaud, Mrs. W. J. Grant. Second row : Souvenir de la Malmaison, Magna Charta, Marcchal Niel, Madame Victor Verdier, Monsieur Noman, Madame Cusin, K. A. Victoria, Captain Hayward (capital), Mrs. Paul, Chas. Lefebvre, Hon. Edith Gifford, Senateur Vaisse, Marchioness of Dull'erin, Lo Havre, Ernest Metz, Helen Keller, Innocento Firola, Dupuy Jamain, Souvenir d'Elise Vardon, General Jacqueminot, Medea, Su/. .nue-Mario Rodocanachi, The Bride, and Crown July 9, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 37 Prince. Third row : Salamander, Marchioness of Downshire, Auguste Rigotard (good). Souvenir d'un Ami, Marie Verdier, Golden Gate, Earl of Dufferin, Muriel Giahame, Abel Car- riere, Bridesmaid, Annie Laxton, Maman Cochet, Ed. Andre, Madame de Wattevillo, Prince Arthur, Margaret Dickson (very fine), A. K. Williams, Madame Cadeau Carney, Madame Delville, Madame Bravy, Et. Levet, Merveille de Lyon, Dr. Sewell (good), and Souvenir de S. A. Prince. There were four other exhibitors, and of these Messrs. F. Cant q., Ly minster, Arundel, was 1st, showin? blooms of Madame Lambard, Hon. Edith Gifford, Captain Hayward, and Magna Charta among his best; 2nd, B. J. March, Claygate, Surrey. For six blooms, distinct, grown within 8 miles of Charing Cros.*. — G. W. Cook, Esq., came well to the fore, his blooms being clear, full, and fresh, the best being Caroline Testout, Captain Hayward, Mrs. S. Crawford, Charles Lefebvre, Gustave Piganeau, and Madame Chauvry ; 2nd, A. C. Gif- ford, Esq., Tennyson Road, South Norwood, who had a splendid bloom of Mrs. Sharman Crawford, Jeannie Dickson, Captain Christy, Lady A. Hill as his best; J. Batpman, Esq , Rose Vale, Archway Road, Holloway, was 3rd. There were six competitors here. In tlie class for sic blooms of new Roes, distinct, five stands were observed. 1st, Conway Jones, Esq., Gloucester, whose blooms were very good, and consisted of Tom Wood, Sylph, Princess de Venosa, Helen Keller, Marjorie, and Mrs. J. Grant. O. G. Orpen, Ksj., Colchester, was 2nd, with good flowers of Enchantress, Francis Debreil, White MarScbal Niel, Mavourneen, Mis. W. J. Grant, and Helen Keller. J. H. Pemberton was 3rd, who had good blooms of Souvenir de President Carnot, Merrie England, and Antoine Rivoire as his best. In the Tea and Noisette sections some very good stands wire staged. For eighteen blooms di tinct, A. H. Gray, Esq., Bath, was the winner of 1st prize, beating four other competitors. Here we noticed specially good blooms of Jules Finger, Alba rosea, Maman Cochet, Ernest Metz, Princess Beatrice, Souvenir d'Elise Vardon, 8ouvenir d'un Ami, Bridesmaid, Comtosse de Panisse, Peter Gifford, Souvenir de S. A. Prince, Medea, Catherine Mermet, Cleopatra, Marie Van Houtte, Comtesso de Nadaillac (very fine, awarded the Silver Medal as the best Tea in the amateur section), The Bride, and Marechal Niel. Conway Jones, Esq., was a close 2nd, who had splendid flowers amongst others of Catherine Mer- met, Marechal Niel, Cleopatra, Madame Custn, Bridesmaid, Princess of Wales, Innocente Pirola, Madame Hoste, Maman Cochet, and Comtesse de Nadaillac; the 3rd was taken by O. G. Orpen, Esq., whose blooms, though somewhat smaller, were fresh and clean. Among his most worthy were Anna Olivier, Francisca Kruger, Cathorine Mermet, and Jean Ducher. For twelve distinct Teas and Noisettes open to all amateurs irrespective of the number of plants they grow. — Seven stands were put up: this was a good class, and the stands were very close, the 1st being awarded to A. H. Gray, Esq., whose blooms of Alba rosea, Catherine Mermet, The Bride, Maman Cochet, Souvenir d'un Ami, and Marshal Noil, were very prominent. A. Tatk Esq., Leatherhead, was a good 2nd, having fine blooms of Maman Cochet, Souvenir do S. A. Prince, Comtesse de Nadaillac, Souvenir d'un Ami, Carolino Kuster, and Souvenir d'Elise Vardon ; the 3rd fell to A. M. Bethune, Esq, For eight distinct Tea and Noisettes, three blooms of each.— A. II. Gray was again 1st, with very fresh and full blooms of The Bride, Princess of Wales, Madame Hoste, Catherine Mermet, Comtesse de Nadaillac, Marechal Niel, Ernest Metz, and Souvenir de S. A. Prince ; S. P. Budd, Bath, was 2nd ; and Col. J. H. Pitt, Maidstone, 3rd ; this class was a very attractive one. For nine blooms of any one variety. Tea and Noisettes.— A. H. Gray wai 1st, with very fine blooms, clean, full, and fresh, of Catherine Mermet; S. P. Budd, 2nd, with Madame Hoste in splendid condition ; E. M. Bethune 3rd, with Comtesse de Nadaillac in fine lorm also. In the c'&ss open only to growers of less than 500 plants of Teas and Noisettes, Jor twelve blooms distinct.— Con way Jonej, Esq., whs 1st with a good stand, in which were splendid bloima cf Souvenir do S. A. Prince, Comtesse de Nadaillac, The Bride, Cleopitra, Madame Cusin, Bridesmaid, and Innocente Piroli; the 2nd was taken by R F. Hobbs, Esq., Worcester, amongst these Roses being wonderfully fine blooms of Mare* chal Niel, and good ones of Anna Olivier, Niphetos, an! Madame de Watteville ; A. Evans, fc'sq , Maratou, Oxford, was 3rd, with a good stand. For nine blooms, distinct. — Six stands were put up, th3 1st prize going to J. T. &traxub, Esq., Aldermoston, whose best were Madame Lambard, Marie Van Houtte, The Bride and Maman Cochet; E. MA.wr.Gy, Esq, Berkhamsted, was 2nd ; and Miss Paker, Reigate, 3rd. A capital lot entered in the class for nine t of Mirechal Niel ; L. Parrv, Esq., 2nd, with Hon. Edith Gifford. For six distinct virie ie , 'even trusset of each. — O. G. Orpb ', Esq., came in 1st, with fine blooms of Anna Olivier, Ma iamj Van Houtte, aud Souvenir d'un Ami; 2nd, A. Evans, Esj., Oxford. For six blooms in not le*s than three varieties, Teas and Noisettes, open only to amateurs who have never won a prize m an exhibition of the Notional Rose Society. — Some eight lots were put up, the 1st prizj being awarded to J. Hintun, E-q., Bath- easton, who had in fine c ndition Souvenir d'uu Ami, Mede i. Souvenir de S. A. Princ^, Princess of Wales, Comtesse de Nadaillac, and Catherine Mermet; and J. Carte*, Mil House, Halstead, was 2nd. In the section forgardm or decorative Roses, for twelve distinct varieties, not less titan three trusses of each, space occupied not to exceei 5 feet by 3 feet, all hybrid perpetual, except tingl-- flowtred varieties to be excluded, and all Teas ",id Noisettes and hybrid Teas mentioned in the National Hose Society's Catalogue of Exhibition Roses al>o excluded,' Moss, Provence, and other x immer-dowering Ro*es may be included. — In this class A. Tate, Esq., Downside, Leatherhead, was 1st, showing lino clusters in bottles on a stage covered with black velvet, the bottles so dropped through holes as to be entirely hidden ; here were fine clusters of W. A. Richardson, Rosa Mundi, Coupe d'Hebe-, Safrauo, Perlo d'Or, Marquis of Salisbury, Gustave Regis, Red Damask, Bardon Job, and others— a very interesting exhibit. The 2nd prize fell to the Rev. J. H. Femberton, who had a very fine collection, stiged in glass vases. Six collections were shown in this class. For nine distinct varieties, not less than three trusses of each, space occupied not to exceed I feet by 3 feet. - Mrs. A. F. Perkins, Oak Dene, Holm wood, Dorking, was 1st, having good clusters, among which wo observed L'Amicus, Madame Plantier, W. A Richardson, and Paul's Crimson Pillar. Miss Dorothy A. Nesfield, Shadwell, Speldhurst, was 2nd, with a very good lot. O. G. Orpen was 1st for twelve vases of Lord Peuzance's Sweet Briars in not fewer than six varietios and not more than seven trussos in a vase, a very interesting display, F. W. Campion, Reigate, was 2nd with a nico collection also. In the Decorative Section open only to Lady Amateurs who are either Subscribers to tlie National Rose Society, or are members of the family of any Amateur Subscriber, for a vase of cut Roses lightly arranged wthany cut foliage, Ferns or grasses, the vast to be an upright ornament, having only one receptacle for jlower?. — Miss O. G. Orpen was 1st with a very beautiful vaso of Anna Olivier lightly pUced and arranged, with Adiantum cuneatum, and grasses ; and Mrs. E. Mawlev was 2nd. MISCELLANEOUS EXHIBITS. Messrs. R. Wallace & Co , Kilnfield Gardons, Colchester, amongst a collection of hardy bulbous flowers, had many varieties of Lilium Thunbergianum, including the deeply- coloured L. T. Van Houtte, and the distinctly pretty Prince July 9, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE, 39 of Orango ; L. Washingtunianuni purpureum, a spotted vaiiety of this species ; the handsome L. aura turn Wittei, with rich yellow vein through centre of each segment ; L. Browni, L. Hansoni, were noticed. Also Brodiieas, Irises Calochortuses of the Venustus strain, and L. rubcllum. A grand show of Carinas (Indian Shot), in pots, was made by Messrs. H. Cannkll & Sons, Swanley, Kent, in a style of group now becoming familiar at the summer exhibitions. Some of the varieties that showed to greatest advantage were Madame Crozy, Kmilo Thomap, Milne- Redhead, Souvenir d'Antoine Crozy, and Aurore. Altogether there were some forty varieties. Messrs. Geo. Jackman ife Son, Woking, Surrey, had mis- cellancous hardy Qowers and cut Roses ; some of the latter were of admirable quality, as Captain Christy, Karl of Pem- broke, Ulrich Bru nner, Jean Cherpin, Duchess do Moray, and others. The new Campanula mirabltis was again shown. Mr. W. Spooner, Arthur Bridge Nursery, Woking, staged a number of good Rose blooms in boxes. Messrs. Dobeie & Co., Rothesay, N.B., and Orpitgton, Kent, had a fine display of Violas in sprays, and of Sweet Peas in bunches. Some of the best and newest of the Sweet Peas were Chancellor, pink ; Colonist, rose-coloured ; Duchess of Sutherland, white with slight blush ; Lady Mary Came, a very bright flower ; and Lady Nina Balfour, pale lilac. Messrs. Laxton, nurserymen, tedford, staged baskets of Strawberries of the varieties Royal Sovereign, Leader, Monarch, and Meutmoie. The last nanudis a new one, and deeper coloured than most of the others. Mr. J. Williams, Ealing, showed silvered devices, &c., for holding fluwers for the decoration of the dinner-table ; and Mr. Jas. Pinches, Crown Street, Camberwell, had a stand exhibiting various useful forms of garden labels. Messrs. Babr & Sons, King Street, Covent Ga*den, had a collection of hardy flowers, tbe Pa^onies especially being very tine. Papavers and Delphiniums were also coi spicuous. Meesrs. J. Cheal & Boms, Lowfield Nurseries, Crawley, had also a collection of hardy flowers. Messrs. Jko. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill Nurseries, London, S.E., arranged a very pretty group of plants in a corner near to the orchestra. The feature of the group was the double- flowered Begonias, which were very fine, and tbey were s_t tastefully amid flue foliage plants. Messrs. Laing had also a large collection of hardy flowers in bunches, and besides these a table furnished with florists' arrangements. Messrs. Jab. Vbitch & Sons, Royal Exotic Nurseries, were represented by a group of Roses in pots, bac ed by large well-flowered plants of Hydrange i paniculate. Mr. Foster, Brockhampton Nurseries, Lad a display of Sweet Peas in bunches if numerous varieties, Duehess of Edinburgh, Serisation, Mrs. Ecklord, and Alice Eckford, were among the best and the newest of those displayed. Messrs. Cutbush & Son, Highgate Nurseries, London, N., had a grand lot of Malrnaison Carnation. Also some new perpetual - flowering varieties, Edith Sydenham, an excel- lent white one of good size and non-splitting calyx ; Andiew Noble, a salmon-pink-coloured variety, is equally good in this respect. LEE, BLACKHEATH, LEWISHAM, AND WEST KENT HORTICULTURAL. July 6.— The annual exhibition of this long-established society was held in the grounds of The Cedars, Lee, on the above date. The Lee Society apparently suffers, as many others have done, from the fact that horticultural socieiies whose chief wurk is to hold exhibitions have becone more and more numerous. Though such a circumstance may be regarded with satisfaction as a sign of horticultural activity, the numerous societies have the effect of weakening each other, 'ihe event of Wednesday was a pretty little show, but un- equal in extent and quality to many previously held under the same auspices. Several exhibitors competed for the prizes for a collection of six stove or greenhouse plants, and the 1st prize was won by Mr. C. Birch, gr. to R. Whvte, Esq , Pentland House, Old Road, Lee ; Mr. F. Fox, gr. to Mrs. Penn, The Cedais, Lee, being 2nd. Mr. Nunn won for a collection of twelve stove and greenhouse plants. The specimens in this exhibit were of only moderate merit, most interesting being that of Hoya carnosa. 'J he prizes offered by the tradesmen of Blackheath for a collection of six plants in y-inch pots brought several exhi- bits, but there was little of interest in them. The beBt, however, was from Mr. W. Payne, gr. to C. D. Abel, Esq , II, Eastcomte Villas, Blackheath. The best collection of six Cordylines was from Mr. J. Lam- bert, gr. to H. W. Segelcke, Esq., Heme Hill. These mode- rate-sized, well-grown plants were of the following varieties : —Lord Wolseley, Gladstone, Goldieana, Anerleyensis, Madame Bergman, and Lindeni. Caladiums were shown as capital specimens. The 1st prize for six plants was taken by Mr. C. Nunn, and the 2nd prize by Mr. W. Payne. There were several collections of six exotic Ferns, and the le3t was one frum Mr. C. Birch. Mr. J. Lambert won for a group of four Ferns. Of several gn.ups of plants arranged for tffect in a space not exceeding 40 superficial feet, Mr. F. Fox had a pretty exhibit, and much the brightest shown. The plants were slightly crowded, however, a common mistake. Several pots of pretty Schizanthus pinnatus were in this group. The best specimen plant in flower was a capitil example of Ixora from Mr. C. Birch, and the Silver Medal for the best instance of successful cultivation was given as an additional prizo. Mr. T. Aloy, gr. to R. Kersey, Esq., High Road, Lee, showed good Colcus ; and also took 1st prize for three table plants, and for a specimen table plant. Rotes.— The class for forty-eight Roses distinct (Nursery- men), was won by Messrs. G. & W. II. Burch, Pcteibfiougb, who wero also the best eibibitors in the class for twenty-four blooms. The blooms were of very commendable quality, espcciallyin the latter class. Mr.Jko. K Box, Croydon, took 2nd prize in each of the classes. In the Amateur's Rose Classes nlmt stall of the 1st prizes were won by Mr. G. W. Cook, the Briars, North Finehley ; but for twelve Teas or Noisettes, the honour went to Mr. J. Browmnh, !>, Be'gravo Place, Foots Cray. Fruit.z— Mr. E. Longley, gr. to Mrs. Holt, Waratab, Chisle- burst, had good Pitmaston Orange Nectarines, and Royal George Peaches, and was also 1st f r a collection of four dishes of fruit. The test collection of six dishes of fruit came from Mr. E. Dove, gr. to H. E. Fry, Esq,, Bickley Hall, whoso Straw- berries and Pineapple were commendable. Mr, E. Dove won several 1st prizes for collections of vege- tables, and Mr. .T. Arney, gr. to F. E. Siebreich, Esj , Chislehurst, for salads. Miscellaneous Exhibits. — Messrs, Jno. Laing & Sons, Forest Hill Nurseries, London, S.E., staged a large group of cut Roses, bo ng the most prominent exhibit in one of the tents, also a few florists' airangements, and a collection of hardy flowers. Messrs. B. Maller . Prior & Sons (Colchester), and Townsend &, Sons (Worcester), were also among the more successful exhibitors. Nearly every class filled, and nearly every prize was awarded. There were some splendid exhibits among those sent in, but not for competition, and the Committee authorised the judges to mark their sense of this by a liberal award of gold and silver medals, the most notable of these being the gold medals to Messrs. Carter & Sons, for miscellaneous collec- tion of flowers ; Charlesworth & Co., Bradford, collection of Orchids ; Earl Harrington, Carnations; IcthemicManure Co., Ipswich; W. & J. Birkenhead, Sale, for Ferns ; Sander 4 4 0- 5 0 1 6- 0 4-08 Remarks. — The Southampton Strawberries may now be said to be done (when this is read). There is not, as far as I have seen, auything you could really describe as a fine sample ; the same remark applies to the Kentish Pecks, of which there are thousands coming daily. Of Punnets, the best I have seen were grown in Middlesex. No doubt this week will finish Southamptuns, and the bulk of those which come early. Of Peas, the sorts are various, and all in fairly good order. Tin American Wuuder, which I think I know under another name, seems to be a leading article ; of dwarf habit, and heavy cropper, the pods are not long, but they contain, when developed, a lot of corn. Gooseberries this week have been down in price— Is. Gd. to 2s. Gd. ; few of the last-mentioned price realised. Spinach is now a most erratic vegetable, thus the variation in prices, because one day it's fit, the next it's run. Potatos are Puritans, Monarch, White Hebrons, and Kidneys. Potatos. Home grown lQOs. to 140,5. ; Jersey and French %s. to 110s. per ton. John Bath, 32 and 34, Wellington Street, Covent Garden, We are requested to state that Messrs. Brown & Sons, Seedsmen, formerly carrying on business in Bildwiu Street, Bristol, have removed to larger and more convenient premises at 31, Bridge Street, close to Bristol Bridge. Notices to Correspondents. Apple Shoots : G. K. Qude. The shoots and leaves are badly infested with mildew. You should remove and burn the worst affected, and dress the foliage with the Bordeaux Mixture, or with flosers- of-sulphur, dissolved first in a small quantity of water as you would prepare mustard for the table, and theu incorporate it in soapsuds made with soft-soap at the rate of 3 oz. to the gallon of water. About 2 oz. of sulphur (dry) is an effective dose in a gallon of suds. If the mixture be well made, it can be applied with an ordinary garden-syringe or engine. Carnation Flowers : W. R. The white flower is very pure, and the flaked one most attractive. In either case the calyx is good, and for the border the varieties should be valuable, but they .are not necessarily improvements upon varieties already existing. Chicory : J. IV. C. There is the " lied Italian " Chicory in which the red colour is found mostly in the mid-rib, but it extends to the whole leaf faintly. Seeds could be obtained of MM. Vilmoriu Andrieux & Cie., of Paris, or of MM. Dammann & Cie., Portici, NapleB. Corms of The Bride Gladiolus : R. A. If you could cover the bulbs with hand-lights or frames, and keep the soil dry after the plants die down, there would be no need to lift them, otherwise lifting is necessary. By lifting and resting, and re- planting part of the stockjate in September under frames, early bloom may be obtained. The re- mainder might be kept till March in a dry, cool place, and then planted. Cucumber Houses : A. B. C. There are various kinds of plants that might be grown in them where the shade is least— say, Maidenhair Fern, Pteris tremula and other varieties, seedling Asparagus officinalis, sown thickly in 60's ; Tradescantia zebrina and its varieties ; Cyperus, Selaginella Mertensii, S. denticulata, and S. apoda, Oplismenus Burmauni variegatus (Panicum). Cucumbers : W. T. A very bad case of Eel-worms at the roots. There is no cure possible. The worms exist on the roots of grasses and other wild plants, and are brought iu with the soil. All soil should be at least one year in a stack, which should be kept quite clear of herbage. Clear out, and start anew. Foster's Seedling Grape Cracking : J. A. This variety is not liable to this malady, and it is the more unaccountable as Madresfield Court, a variety that is liable to crack under certain conditions, is growing in the same vinery. It may be due to something wrong with the border, and can scarcely be brought about by your management of the vinery ; or you may have Oidiuna Tuckeri in the Vine. Please send some of the berries for inspection. Grapes : J. McClelland. The bunch sent is badly infested with the fungus that causes the " spot " disease. There is no known cure, and you should cut out every berry that shows the least sign of pitting or Bpotting, and burn it ; and dress the bunches forthwith with sulphide of potassium at the rate of 1-oz. in a gallon of rain-water to ward off future attacks. The bunches should bo syringed in a day or two to remove the sulphide. The name of the fungus is Gkeosporium lseticolor. Grapes : R. S., Sunderland. If White Frontignan Grapes are shown in a class for Muscats, the exhibit would be beaten by Muscat of Alexandria or other variety, or it would be disqualified as not being what it was intended should be shown. It is usual to show these small- fruited varieties in a class apart. Names of Plants : Correspondents not answered in this issue are requested to be so gooil as to consult the followinr/ number. — E. J. P. Tamarix germanica. — II. W. E. Buddlea globosa ; Nat. Order Scropbulariacea;. — J. B. R., Plympton. Dendro- bium Pierardi. — B. K. Dendrobiuni moschatum of that variety often called D. calceolus ; and Stanhopea eburnea. — W. T. The handsomest form of Oncidium macranthum we have seen. It is recorded in the present issue, p. 22. — Douglas. Sibthorpia europrcus variegatus (Cornish Money- wort).— C. D. Knight. Ophrys apifera, the Bee Orchis ; a British species, generally found upon chalk hills. — John McLogan. Helichrysum ros- mariuifolium. — Nurseryman. Pyrus lobata (Mes- pilus Smithi). — IV. F. O. 1, Hordeum murinum ; 2, Lolium remulentum ; 3, Bromus mollis ; 4, Phleum pratense ; 5, Bromus erectus ; li, Bromus mollis. — IV. H. M. Viburnum plicatum. — F. D. Medicago denticulata. — Alice Holt. Euphorbia amygdaloides. — Dr. B. Hajmanthus inultiflorus. — Thos. Rogers. Spiraa cauescens (Himalaya). Piiopagating-Case : Disconsolate. The so-called propagating-case is not required to strike cuttings of the plants named. Poinsettias aud Euphorbias strike well without bottom heat on a shelf in the stove, without bell-glass or any covering whatever, that is if ripe wood be employed as cuttings. They need very little moisture in the soil till roots form. If green shoots are employed, it is best to take a thin heel of last year's wood as well ; such cuttings strike in a hotbed frame or under bell-glasses on bottom heat, and they would succeed in a case, but require daily airing for 10 minutes, ordampiug off will occur. The leaves should be tied to a stick erect, and not allowed to flag. Begonia Gloiro de Lorraine strikes from small cuttings coming direct from the roots, and to obtain these the main growth has usually to be cut hard back. They should be put into sandy loam aud peat surfaced with sand, one each in a thumb-pot. They need mild bottom heat and not much covering up. None of the plants you name, excepting the first two, are the better for damping overhead ; moreover this practice is never advisable in a cloEe case, as it would render damping off a certainty with many species of plants. If you damp cuttings overhead they should as a rule be those that are exposed to the air of the propagating-house. The direction keep " close aud moist," does not mean that the cuttings are to besprinkled, usually it is sufficient to moisten the bed or floor, or pluugiog materials of tho case. Tomatos: II. J. G. The fruits have tho "spot" disease. See answer to " Burns," in our issue for June 25, p. 400. No cure. Travelling Glasshouses and Roses : A. B. C. If the pot Hoses comprise suitable saleable varieties, and they are planted forthwith without root dis- turbance, and well doue during the current season, the glasshouse might bo run over them in late October, resting them cool and dry for a month or two, and then closiug the house partially for a time, afterwards raising the internal warmth, and affording water to the soil, so as to get tho plant in bloom early in the winter. Tyrolese Plants: A'. Y. Z. 1, Pack in ventilated boxes in damp moss. The transit through the post takes only two days from Vienna, and perhaps one day out of the Tyrol. 2, Obtain the " Synopsis of European species of Primula, " by J. G.Baker, iu the Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society, vol. vii., 1886. 3, The Parcel Post obtains between Austria and this country. Communications Received.— M. D.— Mons. S-— A. T. De la Mare.— H. B.— E. L., Gembloux.— R. J. L.— J. R., Altrin- chani (many thanks). — H. J. G. — Young Gardener. — J. Slater.— M. A. Dinter.— A. B. S.— E. C —J. B.— R. McL. — W. Heme.— R. P. B.— P. Pamphilon.— Attwood & Co.— T. E. Kenwood.— W. T. H.— C. T. D.— J. O'Brien.— A. R. — E. Chitty.— J. G. Bryson. — Bertram 9 "GARDENERS' CHRONICLE." Important to Advertisers. — The Publisher h'ts the satisfac- lion of announcing that the circulation of the "Gardeners' Chronicle" has, since the reduction in the price of the paper, MORE THAN DOUBLED, and that it continues to increase weekly. Advertisers arc reminded that the " Chronicle" circulates among Country Gentlemen, and all Classes ok Gardknkus and Garden-lovers at home, that it has a specially large Foreign and Colonial Circulation, and that it is vreserved for relerence in all the principal Libraries. (For remainder of Markets and Weather f see p, ix.) July 16, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 41 THE SATURDAY, JULY 16, 1898. DALKEITH IN JUNE. LITTLE more than half - a - century has elapsed since a horticultural writer in 1845 declared that Scottish nurserymen cata- logued from two to three hundred double- flowered Scots Roses. The intervening interval of time since then has seen their decadence, and all but the extinction of these numerous varieties ; and it is doubtful whether any trade firm in Scotland could to-day supply more than a dozen varieties. The facility with which they could be increased by means of seeds, and a sameness in the appearance of many of the varieties, combined with the rapid improvement of H. IVs and other sections of popular Eoses, appear to have been fatal to their existence. At any rate, their reign was a short one. I can find no account of any exist- ing in the last century, and at the beginning of the present. I have discovered one double variety only. Hogg, in the 2nd edition (1822) of his Treatise cm the Carnation, &c, names seven varieties, and also remarks, " The Scotch Roses that have been raised from seeds within these few years past are exceedingly fine and delicate, and make a great addition to the flower-garden." About the beginning of the forties, many hybrid varieties were raised by French florists, but these would appear to have been wanting in the characteristics of the true Scots Rose. Stanwell Perpetual, raised at an earlier date, is the sole remaining representa- tive of the hybrids. Its delicate pink buds, its fragrance, and its habit of flowering con- tinuously from May onwards, cause it to be cherished in many gardens. The connection of these remarks with " Dalkeith in June " will appear when I men- tion the fact that the grounds and gardens "familiar in the mouth as household words," belonging to the Duke of Buccleuch, and managed in succession during the greater part of the present century by a trio of great gar- deners, still contain the remains of a collection of double-flowered Scots Roses, selected by Mr. Macintosh in the end of the forties as the cream of the varieties then in cultivation. The collec- tion originally comprised some 150 varieties, all named, and considered by connoisseurs of the period to be distinct. The plants form a broad natural hedge, ex- lending to a length of over 100 yards, and their inspection formed the primary object of my visit. They were found as near perfection as Mr. Dunn's judgment had previously concluded they would be. A few of the earliest to flower were going off, and some of the latest were just showing their first opening buds, but the majority were at their best, and it was possible to see every plant more or less in character. Most unfortunately their names were long ago lost, but they are now all numbered and their characteristics noted, and as Scots Roses may before long assume the position they deserve in gardens, it may yet be not impossible to supply to them their original designations. As decorative objects their effect is not oon- fined to the flower-gardeD. The buds are in constant demand for personal decoration, and the long curving shoots, closely studded with buds and expanding blooms, and with .neat dark green foliage, are of the utmost value for vase furnishing. Smaller sprays form an admirable setting to blooms of W. A. Richard- son or other Roses when laid on the cloth as a table decoration. The fragrance of the blooms in a mass, as at Dalkeith, is, moreover, very great, and is diffused to a distance. Like the Sweet Briar, the flowers are most fragrant in the evening. The varieties include a few white forms, one of which, very early, is noteworthy on account of the chaste form of its expanded blooms. Another of the prettiest is somewhat late to flower. Of this the expanding buds are barred light purple on dull white, but when fully expanded, the flowers are of various shades of delicate pink and blush, and some- times white. The petals are large and cupped, and the bloom consequently deep for a Scotch Rose. The above two I thought the best of the collection. Two lato varieties, dwarf and distinct in habit, are respectively of a very light and a darker shade of purple. Not a few varieties are mottled, and some of these sport to white, so that on the same stem there may be double mottled, double white, and some- times single flowers. The shading of some of the flowers it is impossible to describe ; one has the merest suspicion of pink flushing on the petals, while yet another is all but red in its markings. Here, again, is one with a dark salmony centre, with a broad, fairly-defined, lighter edging. Another equals it in beauty, the lovely pink of Rosa alba, Celestial ; and among others are fawny and creamy tints which are most charming. Growing in close proximity to the Scotch Roses is a shorter hedge of a variety which Mr. Dunn esteems very highly. The flowers are cream-coloured and single, the foliage neat, closely set on long and graceful shoots, and the scent Sweet -briary ; it is named Rosa elegantissima, but 1 can find no trace of it in any work or article on Roses. May it not be the old "Yellow Sweet Briar?" I have grown it for a year or two, and like it much for mixing with flowers as a green setting. For this purpose it is largely used in the ducal establishment. These are, however, not the only old Roses that flourish at Dalkeith, between the tall Holly- hedge which cuts off the orchard from the strip of lawn lying south of the kitchen-garden, a very old Rose-covered trellised walk still exists. The Roses are nearly all very old, some of them, as the double Briar, scarce ; others, very ragged looking members of the family, perhaps unique. But among these are many Ayrshire Roses, such as Dundee Rambler ; Ruga, and Queen of the Belgians, Felicite-Perpetue, Acidalie, a climbing single white, &c. The length of walk thus covered extends to over 500 foet. At one end it is terminated by a deeply set-in semi-circular Rose-arbour paved with stones. The corresponding arbour for the other end is set back a few yards at the end of another walk terminating against the Holly- hedge mentioned above, and stands at a right angle to the usual position. The age of this very fine example of a covered-walk with its terminating arbours is about 140 years. The original oaken posts set into sandstone bases are still intact, but the wooden laths have unfortunately been replaced by iron wives. It was removed hither from its original position in the old gardens, about a mile distant, when the present gardens were made by Macintosh about sixty years ago. Its eastmost end abuts on a sloping lawn studded with flowering and ornamental trees and shrubs, very noteworthy among which is an English Labur- num of extraordinarily large and graceful proportions. There are also many interesting specimens of Conifers and broad-leaved trees, including a very large and fine specimen of Taxus adpressa, clumps of Japanese Maples, a Torreya myristica, a circular bed containing seedling plants of Sciadopitys verticillata, with Saxe Gothfea conspicua, &c. Here a dividing wall with its border is utilised for the cultivation of the more rare shrubs. Many of these are late introductions which are being tested, both as regards their orna- mental qualities and hardiness. For example, Hedera amurensis is growing freely on the wall ; Clerodendron trichotomum is doing fairly well, but as regards Scotland it remains a doubtful subject; Cercis Siliquastrum, which fails in the open, succeeds on this wall. At Beil, East Lothian, a splendid specimen of this tree exists, supposed to have been planted by Street, a contemporary of Macintosh. Another shy plant in the open, Escallonia Philippiana, grows well on the wall. Here, also, Viburnum plicatum was flowering freely, and the species of Elseagnus, but all these succeed without pro- tection. Xanthoceras sorbifolia is also trained on this wall, but it will also grow fairly well in the open. In the border a very large collection of orna- mental shrubs were mostly all doing well. Such are the newer hybrid Weigelas, the value of which has not as yet been fully determined. Amygdalus Davidiana in three varieties, very hardy, free-flowering, and early. Mr. Dunn prunes these as tall standards. Many species and varieties of Spiraea were also noted, S. Thunbergi, the earliest of all, S. confusa, S. Van Houttei, and S. rotundifolia, a trio with much in common, the last-named perhaps the most worthy of cultivation ; S. arioefolia was well budded, and the S. callosa section, of which Anthony Waterer is doubtless the best, were showing incipient corymbs on the ends of the shoots. Spiraeas, it may be noted, prefer a deep holding-soil ; otherwise they must be regularly manured and the weaker growths removed. Choisya ternata, the "Cherry Pie" of Corn- wall, was flowering quite freely, as was -also Olearia macrodonta, while the smaller, and perhaps prettier, O. Haastii was bristling with buds. I was very pleased with Cytisus pallidus and Daphne hybrida, with flowers not unlike one of its parents, D. indica. The aromatic Caryopteris Mastacanthus was growing well, and it also flowers profusely at Dalkeith. There is a white variety which, as yet, I have not seen. Of variegated Dogwoods theie is a fairly full collection. Cornus Spathi had been nipped by cold, as it not unfrequently is. A very good substitute, however, and equall)' effective, is found in Syringa Emodi variegata ; and S. E. aurea is one of the best pure yellow-leaved plants, much better than either Weigelas or Spiraea opulifolia, with yellow leafage. The Golden Privet, however, is a most desirable plant, and a favourite at Dalkeith. Parrotia persica fails to colour here in autumn, and is, therefore of 42 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. (July 16, 1898. little value ; but Ampelopsis japonica does well, and dies off in the most lovely combinations of cream, green, rose, and crimson. Shepherdia argentea attracted attention by the delightful blending of its yellowish silvery- green foliage. A nice specimen of Daphuiphyl- lum glaucescens, the red-foliaged variety, bids fair to become a standard shrub ; the foliage, unfortunately, is here much smaller than that produced under the warmer skies of the south of England. Here we had given up Quercus glabra, but ia a warm corner at Dalkeith it is doing well. Ptelea trifoliata var. aurea, an old plant, was very fine. Interesting shrubs with minute foliage are represented by Buxus myrtifolia, the plant sixty years of age, and not exceeding 3 feet in height. Equally interesting was Ilex Fortunei, and the curious, small-leaved Philadelphus macro- pbyllus, which Lemoine has been utilising in the raising of new hybrids. Very uncommon is a variety of the common Laurel, named Oamellisefolia, having convoluted leaves. The hardy " Orange," Citrus trifoliata, appeared to be thriving in Scottish air. Hollies are a leading feature, and the collection includes every variety of note, and all the species that will bear the climate. Of flowering-trees there is quite a large number, such, for instance, as Buddleaglobosa, Kolreuteria paniculata, Halesia hispida, and H. tetraptera, Sophora japonica, Pavias, and many more, which it is impossible in a short sketch to mention. No portion of the extensive gardens at Dal- keith is probably of greater interest to a gar- dener than the large orchard lying on the broadened elope, terminated by the North Esk Biver, which flows just outside the boundary. On the opposite side is a haugh, where on the lush-grass, among large trees, full flushed in their summer foliage, a few cows feed. Just beyond is the ancient burgh of Dalkeith, with its tall spires picturesquely crowning the ridge between the North and South Esk Bivers ; and further off a delightful stretch of undulating country, field, wood, and hill, meeting the dis- tant horizon. It is a fair prospect. But earlier in the year, when Plum is succeeded by Pear, and Pear by Apple-blossom, the sojourner on the other side the river has then the advantage. The trees in the orchard, which is closely cropped with vegetables, consist mainly of standards on tall stems. In addition to these, however, there are large numbers of pyramid- trained Apples, Pears, and Plums. Appear- ances point to a fine average crop of all. In the course of conversation Mr. Dunn inci- dentally remarked that the Dalkeith collection embraced about 180 sorts of Plums, of which only a few of the best are grown in quantity, Pond's Seedling and Gisborne's being con- sidered the best for standards. Of Apples there are about 700 kinds, which it was agreed might, with advantage to the grower, be reduced to about two dozen varieties. Pears are represented by about 500 sorts, and here again a few popular varieties were esteemed sufficient for working purposes, i took the opportunity to request Mr. Dunn's opinion of the value of Apple-trees grown as pinched dwarfs, and of Pear-trees as free-growing pyramids. The former he considered of value only so long as unremitting attention was accorded, but one year of neglect in details ensured their ruin. Concerning the last-named, Mr. Dunn, while agreeing that large crop9 were annually secured, yet exhaustion super- vened sooner or later, and the trees required to be replaced by others. It is one of the signs of the times that this large orchard is not exempt from the ever increasing crush of floweriDg plants, which seem to overflow into all departments. A double row of herbaceous Ptoonies is a very old feature, but Phloxes and other flowers for cutting are novel. So also in the kitchen garden, long lines of Pinks, Lychnis, ^Viscaria splendens, various Pyrethrums, and glowing Eastern Pop- pies, as well as Sweet Peas, Carnations, and Dahlias yet to bloom were largely in evidence. The main central borders were brilliant with Violas, planted diversely in squares, the varieties comprising the whole of those that have received awards at Chiswick. A neat mulching of dry horse-droppings covered tho suiface of the ground between the plants, and here it may be said that this material is largely used as a mulch both outside and in the fruit- houses. Also in the kitchen garden, filling the west, east, and south borders, in the space between the walks and the dwarf Apple-trees next the cropping quarters, herbaoeous flower- ing and alpine plants are grown. These borders are too narrow to be effective, but they are most interesting, and no doubt valuable adjuncts to the floral department, and as grown at Dalkeith without staking the plants do not consume much time in their culture. It is, I think, not generally known that the greater part of the plants suitable for such borders as those under discussion are best grown without staking at all. Where sup- port is required, a piece of string tied so as to keep the stems from opening outwards is in all but a few cases the whole that is needful. A rapid walk through the glass department shows that here, as elsewhere in these gardens, while the best of the old is preserved, the novel is also given its place. The newer Cannas, the best Caladiums, border Carnations in pots for early summer flowering, and Streptocarpus are a few of the latter. The almost endless stretches of glass struc- tures filled with Grape-vines, Peaches, Melons, Pines, Figs, Guavas, BanaDas, and hardy fruits can only be mentioned, and one can only assume that, with a staff not large for the demands upon it, its controller must have all his wits employed to keep Dalkeith, inside and out, in the perfect condition we found it on that June day, when the Scots Boses were so beautiful. B. CURE FOE THE LILY DISEASE. In common with many other amateur horticul- turists, I have loDg been troubled with that widely- prevailiDg pest, known as the Lily-disease, and the yearly disappointment of seeing my Lilies come up merely to blacken and wither away before they reach the stage of bloom has led me to investigate the matter, with a view to the eradication, or, at least, the mitigation of the evil. Some few years since I took up the whole of my bulbs of the Lilium candidum to the extent of about 2 bushels, for I thought that by a judicious selection of the strongest among them, and by replanting in the most favourable positions, I might be able to improve the then gradually degenerating blossoms. In spite of this, the disease made rapid i eadway, so that of late I have had but a few poor sickly stems in the whole of my garden. I cousulted the Countv Council lecturers of this district, both of them Fellows of the Royal Horticultural Society, only to receive the discouraging information that this mysterious disease had defied all research and all efforts for its cure ; and I have read a recent article in the Standard to the same effect. The several attempts made to procure a healthier stock by the importation of fresh bulbs from Holland have not met with the success they deserved, for the new arrivals have been quickly reduced to the state of the old, apparently worn-out bulbs, by the ravages of the same disease. Hence this strange visitation has practically been stated to be an iocurable disease. I have given the subject some thought for a con- siderable time past, and from what is exemplified at the present time in my own garden, I believe I may state that I have discovered a cure for this persistent evil, which is remarkable at once for its simplicity with effectiveness. My final experiment dates back to the autumn of 1890, and was confined to three groups of the bulbs ; last season they showed a marked improvement in the blossom-heads, which appeared to be entirely free from the disease, though still evidently somewhat weak from its effects in previous years. This summer I have the pleasure of seeing them perfectly healthy and well grown, with fine green stems and leaves, and the promise of large heads of bloom. Other groups in my garden, which have not been tieated, have not a single blossom-stem, and some of them are so far diseased that they have almost disappeared. Disease and health could not be more exemplified than here, and I shall be pleased for anyone to see and compare them. And now for the remedy, which aujone may try, I hope with the same pleasing success which has attended my own efforts. In the autumn of 1896 I removed the bulbs from the ground, and after they had dried somewhat I put them into a large brown- paper bag, in which was a supply of flowert-of-sul- phur; they were then well shaken up until the sulphur had been worked thoroughly into the crevices. After this, and while still well smothered with the powder, they were planted straightaway, with the results which I have described. I feel dis- posed to give the credit of my investigations to the Royal Horticultural Society's lecturers of tho West Sussex County Council, who first aroused my atten- tion to this subject. From the nature of the disease I felt sure it must emanate from the bulb, for the bulb-leaves are the first to be attacked ; and it then proceeds upward through the stem to the flower, which is the last to be affected. This season I propose to treat more in the same way, and I shall be pleased to hear that others, whose plants are affected with the disease, have also tried this simple remedy with success. Horace Byalt, M.A., The Grammar School, Midhurst, Sussex, June, 1898. KEW NOTES. Magnolia farvjflora. — Strictly speaking this is not a new plant, having been described by Siebold and Zuccarini as long ago as 1S43, but it has only been introduced during the present decade, and is still practically unknown to cultiva- tion in Britain. Some plants, obtained from JapaD, flowered at Kew in 1894, and have dono so once or twice Bince, but the true beauty of tl e species has not been indicated, nor even suggested, till now. Since the second week in June, a plant growing in the Bamboo garden has been beauti'ully in flower. It shows the species to be a great acquisition among hardy shrubs, and quite distinct from any Magnolia grown in this country, except it be the still little- known and hitherto unsatisfactory M. Watsoni. The flowers of M. parviflora are 3 to 4 inches across, cup shaped, the six petals being very concave, of the substantial texture common to the Magnolias, and the largest of them 2 inches long. At their best they are almost snow - white, against which the deep rosy-crimson of the stamens shows in teautiful contrast. These stamens are, indeed, the great feature of the flower, beiDg arranged in four or five superimposed rows on the central column, on which is also borne the cone of yellowish green carpels ; thus they form a flat wheel like circle 1 inch across. The three sepals are drooping, and of scarcely so pure a white as the petals. When once established this July 16, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 43 Magnolia promises to grow freely. It has at any rate made vigorous healthy growths during the last two seasons. The leaves are obovate or oblong, from 3 to 6 inches long, dark green and glabrous above, paler below, and covered with a close pubescence that is more particularly noticeable on the mid-rib, veins, and flower-stalks. All the plants in cultivation have been introduced from Japan, which has generally been regarded as its native country. Prof. Sargent, however, doubtless with good reason, says it is one of the numerous trees and shrubs introduced into Japan from China and Corea. Magnolia Watsoni. Owing to its having been mistakenly called M. par- viflora, this Magnolia has become somewhat confused with the true species of that name juBt dealt with. The two are not, however, difficult to distinguish, although they are more nearly related to each other tban to any Magnolias in cultivation. M. Watsoni is a sturdier plant, and less graceful than M. parviflora ; its oblong leaves are larger; the flowers, besides with the graceful habit and distinctness of the plant itself, they entitle the species to a place among choice hardy shrubs. It is remarkable that a shrub so hardy as this has proved to be — both at Kew and in the Arnold Arboretum— should be a native of New Mexico and Arizona, two of the hottest of the S.W. United States. During the last few years a plant has flowered very profusely in June. It is a graceful bush about 4 feet high, with slightly glaucous, smooth, narrow leaves, about ljincb long. The flowers are borno on the previous season's growth, and hang gracefully from the lower side of the branches, often in rows 1 foot or more in length. Each flower is solitary on a short, slender stalk, and in shape is not unlike a Strepto- carpus flower, the lower part of the corolla being tubular, but expanding at the mouth into five slightly reflexed lobes. The entire flower is nearly 1 inch long and over half an inch across, the colour being a singular but pretty shade of green, tinged and lined with purple in the throat. The species, which is the only North American one in cultivation, was dis- covered by Fremont in 1843. Fig. 11. — phala;sopsis ludde-violacea : colours consist of two shades of purple. being larger (from 5 to 6 inches in diameter), are not of a pure, but of a creamy-white, and they are borne on short peduncles, usually about j-inch long. The peduncles of the smaller-flowered M. parviflora are more slender and generally 2i inches long. Unfor- tunately, M. Watsoni is not proving so free a grower as the other ; whether this is owing to some con- stitutional tendency, or to its being grafted on an unsuitable stock, I cannot as yet say. Its branches are apt to die off without any apparent cause. Still, plants are now showing flower at Kew. Ltcium pallidum. Most of the Lyciums are not particularly striking in regard to their flowers, being cultivated as a rule for the beauty of their fruits and for their free and graceful growth, especially in maritime localities ; L. pallidum is, however, an exception. Its flowers are not only beautiful in comparison with those of other species of Lycium, but taken in conjunction Rhododendron Smithi aureum. Considering the rarity of yellow-flowered, ever- green Rhododendrons, and the beauty of this parti- cular one, it is strange that it is not more often seen. It is about sixty years ago since it was raised by Mr. Smith, a nurseryman at Norbiton in Surrey, who showed it in flower at the rooms of the Horticultural Society in Regent Street in 1841. Mr. Smith described it as a cross between a seedling Rhododen- dron of his own and " the yellow-flowered Azalea sinensis." It was thus the first (and is still not far from being the best) of the hybrids to which the name Azaleodendron has been given. It would be interest- ing to know if any of the readers of the Qard. Chron. have large bushes of it, and to what size it grows. I have only seen comparatively small plants, but have been charmed with its free-flowering qualities and its distinct colour. The truss is well formed, and the flowers are each about 2 J inches across ; Paxton, how- ever, describes them as " above 3 inches across." The yellow of the corolla is shadod with brown on the upper-side, and numerous spots of a deeper shade also occur on the upper segment. The leaves are not large, and show distinctly the influence of the Azalea blood in the wrinkled surface. It is at its best out- of-doors in early June. W. J. Bean. Rhododendron cinnabaiunum. Among the Himalayan Rhododendrons truly hardy in the London district, none differs so much from the usual garden type as this. There are several plants at Kew varying from 2 to 6 feet high, some of which have this year flowered very well. I have also seen the species finely represented in the gardens about Falmouth ; but never a specimen so beautiful or so full of flower as one in Mr. Qodman's garden near Horsham a few years ago. The flowers in general outline have been -very aptly compared to Lapagerias, but they are scarcely so large, and the colour, although it varies greatly, is never the particular red of the Lapageria. It is oftenest a rich cinnabar-red, but is frequently shaded with yellow, Bometimes with green, thus giving a variety of hues, but always beautiful, and for a Rhododendron striking. The small leaves are ovate or lanceolate-oblong, of a glaucous-green when young, and inclined to a rusty- red beneath when old. PHAL.ENOPSIS LUDDE- VIOLACEA. A plant in flower of this very pretty garden hybrid, was shown by Messrs. J. Veitch & Son, of Chelsea, on June 22, at the Drill Hall, Westminster, from which our illustration (fig. 11) was prepared. As seen, the flower, which measured 2 inches in extreme width, possessed petals and sepals of a light- purple colour, and lip of a richer shade of purple. The peculiar bar-like markings of amethyst seen in P. Luddemanniana were in the hybrid transformed into rather indistinct spotting, and in form the resemblance to this species was greater than to the other parent. It should be welcomed as another instance of success in crossing the Phatenopsis, and an earnest of other fine things in the future. THE CANNA AS A DECORATIVE PLANT. There is hardly a class of plants cultivated on the Continent which has seen such a marked improve- ment during the last fifteen years as Cannas, which have risen from mere foliage-plants to a foremost position among summer-flowering plants, as well as become important for winter flowering under glass. Mr. Crozy, of Lyons, a noted raiser of Cannas, started this improvement by crossing the old Canna Warscewiczii with Canna indica, and it is to him that we are indebted for a great many fine varieties — the so-called "Crozy Cannas." Since, then, however, the work has been taken up with more or less success by gardeners in other countries, especi- ally Germany ; and of late years also in America, England, and Italy. In Germany, Messrs. W. Pfitzer and G. ErnBt, Stuttgart, have added many fine varieties to the list ; Messrs. Dammann & Co., of Portici, near Naples, have introduced several varieties. I shall, however, refer to these later on. The Americans seem to possess several fine varieties, but as yet these have not been tried in Europe, and for this reason I do not express an opinion upon them. In Stuttgart — in fact, on the Con- tinent generally, Cannas are mostly cultivated as bed-group plants, or as single specimens on lawns, &c, or are planted in company with other foli- age plants, as Ricinus, Nicotiana, Zea, Musa, &c, in order to impart a tropical aspect to the garden, and with their gorgeous blooms to impart brilliancy to the picture. They are lifted in the autumn, and stored in a frost proof place until the spring, when they are started, pushed into growth, and planted out when the weather permits— generally in the month of May. Tbey are not grown much for pot culture, although the colours, when grown under glass, are much more delicate than when grown in 44 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 16, 1898, the open, and all the dwarf varieties are more or lesa Buitable for pot culture. It is, however, mainly in the hope of seeing Cannas become more popular in England for bedding pur- poses, that I write these lines, especially in the south and south-western counties, which are well suited for their cultivation out-of-doors. It must be borne in mind that Cannas require warmth, and we must, of course, choose a warm position in the garden, and one that is especially sheltered from strong winds. There are, however, certain free-flowering and vigorous varieties which will st»nd a good deal of bad and rainy weather without injury, and by making use of these more especially, we can rely on having a passable show oven in not over favourable sites. I believe, however, that by strict selection and crossing these hardier varieties, we may in time possess a strain of Canna3 which even in the changeable climate of England will be iudependent of the vicissitudes of the climate. It is just in this respect that the Canna Italia and Austria of Messrs. Dammann & Co., large and beautiful as they are, in my opinion, are of little value for plantiDg in cool climates, for apart from the fact that their flowers, even under glass, do not last longer than about half a day, they are so delicate as to sutler injury very easily. Canna Bur- bank seems to have a similar constitution ; but, as I before said, not having had an opportunity of forming an opinion of these American varieties, I cannot say so definitely. If, however, by ega n crossing, we could impart the durability and length of flowering of the ordinary run of Crozy's Canna to Canna Italia and similar varieties (Messrs. Dammann & Co. announce about twelve or fifteen similar new varieties this spring), the gain would be great indeed. Should this happy stage be reached, the value of Cannas for decorative and cutting purposes will at once be appa- rent when we consider the large range in fine colours, and the ease with which the plants may be brought to flower in the winter months. It is somewhat bewildering at first to make a good selection from among the great number of varieties in existence at the present day, and the yearly addition of novelties from all sides ; but from per- gonal observation during the last few years of the collections of Mr. Pfitzer and Mr. Ernst in Stuttgart, the following may be recommended as being good varieties : — Older Varieties, which, owing to their possessing various good points, have retained their position among Cannas, viz., Iriciiflora Ebemanni, the best and most effective green-leaved and Musa-like Canna for planting singly on lawns: Seinateur Milliand, the best dark-foliaged variety for the same purpose. Geoffroy St. Hilaire, also a fine foliage variety, with a very Btately habit, leaves purple - violet. I. D. Cahos, a green-leaved variety, with beautiful dark apricot- coloured flowers. Alphonse Bouvier, one of the best older varieties for groups, with its rich and effective crimson flowers ; it has only one fault, that the trusses of bloom are apt to hang down a little. Madame Crozy, also a very good Canna for groups as well as for pot-culture ; flowers of a vermilion colour, very delicately bordered with yellow ; foliage green; very free-flowering. Amiral Avellan, a fine dark foliaged variety, with carmine - orange flowers, and the spikes thrown well above the leaves. Paolo Radaelli, foliage green, flowers dark pomegranate-red, bordered yellow. Ingegnoli Fra- telli, foliage purple-red, with orange-coloured flowers. Comte de Bouchaud, with glaucous-green foliage, and extra large canary - yellow flowers, spotted with carmine ; one of the best of this clas?. Madame Montefiore, similar to the last, flowers also canary- yellow, spotted brown ; it grows tall. Colibri, foliage green, with clear jellow coloured flowers, which have a single carmine spot on the petals. Amiral Avellan : this one with green foliage, flowers canary-yellow, and spotted with light red ; a pale co'our. Florence C. Vaughan, similar to Comte de Bouchaud, slightly mord dwarf iu growth, with green foliage, and clear canary - yellow flowers, spotted carmine; v< ry free-flowering. Ctnrlemagne, a fino dark-leave 1 variety, with darker nerves, and flowers of a dark ro=e ; tall. Doyen F. Liabaud, a fine extra large -flowering variety, with green foliage ; flowers are citron, spotted brown. Souvenir du President Carnot, has fine, purplish-red foliage, with large flowers of an intense tint of vermilion, and flowers thrown well above the foliage. P. J. Berck- manns, foliage bluish-green, and rather tall ; flowers of a peculiar shade of violet-rose seldom seen among Cannas. Souvenir d'Antoine Crozy, similar to J. Sallier fils in habit ; flowers vermilion, edged with yellow. Varieties brought out since 1896. — Czar Alexander 1 1 1. is a very tine variety, with bluish-green foliage and large flowers, intense vermilion - red ; the plant is very floriferous — it stands rainy weather well. Hte. Barbercau, foliage rich green, flowers intense cherry-red, with darker reverse ; Madame H. Rigaud, foliage green, tinted with brown, and forming fine spikes of dark carmine cherry-red flowers ; Souvenir de Jean Chaure, a fine variety with intense purple-red flowers of medium size ; the foliage is green. Madame Chabanne has flowers of a delicate rose, and light green foliage ; Vice-President Luizet, fine broad green foliage ; flowers carmine-crimson-red ; Jean Tissot, a very effective variety for groups with its dark- green foliage, and its intense carmoisin-red flowers ; very free-flowering, and rather extra high in habit ; L. Duport, also a very floriferous variety, with dark green foliage, and flowers, which are of medium size, of a vermilion-orange colour, lightly edged with yellow ; Aurea, one of the bett yellows, flowers are pure citron yellow, the lower petal slightly dotted. Mr. Crozifs Novelties for 1897. — The following may be recommended, the others require another year's trial before a definite opinion can be formed of them ; Depute Ravarin with green foliage, and large round flowers of an intense dark grenade purple-red ; Joseph Combet, a rich velvety carmine, with large flowers and trusses well above the green foliage ; Louis Vorax, foliage green, and with very large flowers of a pretty light red, tinted orange ; Avant garde : this is a fine canary yellow, spotted with carmine ; the foliage is green — practically, it is an improvement of Comte de Bouchaud. The following were introduced by Mr. W. Pfitzer, Stuttgart, viz , Kaiser Wilhelm, a dwarf variety, with scarlet flowers, suitable either for groups or for pot culture, foliage green ; this variety has only one defect, in great heat the leaves are apt to roll up, making them unsightly for the time being, unfolding again towards evening, however, without injury ; Germania, an exceptionally dwarf variety, excellent for pot culture, was much thought of at the Chicago Exhibition ; the flowers are of an intense crimson colour, edged and blotched, especially the reverse, with yellow. Franz Buchner is, in my opinion, one of the finest Cannas in existence for all purposes, pot culture or the open air, is always good in hot or rainy wea- ther ; the foliage is green, and flowers show well above the foliage, they are of a bright orange, tinted lilac, edged slightly with yellow, very free. Paul Meylan is somewhat similar in colour, but of taller growth ; it is a fine variety. J. Sallier fils, dark green in foliage, the flowers an intense velvety scarlet, bor- ders blotched with yellow, is an effective variety on account of the great number of its smaller flowers. Leonard Lille, leaves bronzy, with darker nerves ; flowers of a fine apricot colour, a dwarf variety is very effective. R. P. Ker, a tall variety, suitable for the centre of groups, with dark green foliage, edged brown ; flowers are large, round, of an intense dark crimson-purple, very effective at a distance ; the flower bouquets stand well above the foliage— very free. Reichskanzler Fiirst Hohenlohe : this is un- doubtedly one of the best yellow varieties for groups, Btanding rainy weather very well ; the foliage is green, and flowers are of a very clear citron-yellow, the lower petal only being slightly spotted — a very useful variety. Captain von Gossel is a variety useful for pot-culture, on account of its lovely apricot- orauge-coloured flowers, slightly tinted gamboge- yellow ; the leaves are green. Pfitzer's New Cannas of 1897-98.— The best of tho?e areStadtrathHeidenreich, fine metallic reddisV brown foliage ; flowers of a clear and intense cin- nabar-red, are well -formed, and show up singly in th) bouquets, whioh stand well above foliage ; J. D. Eisele, a very good and floriferous variety ; foliage dark green ; the flowers are nearly round, aud are of a clear orange-vermilion — very good for groups ; Hof- giirtner Lauche, very similar in habit to Gtrman;a, but with flowers of a lighter tint, very floriferous, and capital for pot culture ; the flowers are orange- red, spotted and bordered with golden-yellow, and slightly tinted rose ; Mrs. Fr. Eckstein, a fine dark- leaved variety, with vermilion-orange flowers, standing majestically above the foliage ; Gruss aus Hamburg : this fine Canna has dark green foliage, and clear, salmon-orange-coloured flowers, forming enormous trusses ; indeed of such size as at times to droop a little, which is as with Alphonse Bouvier, a slight drawback to these otherwise excellent varieties. For groups Hofgiirtner Stiegler, perhaps one of the best of Pfitzer's 1898 introductions, with dark green foliage, nerved and edged with dark brown ; flowers and spikes of bloom are of large size and of a rich car- mine-purple, slightly striped, and being also very numerous — this was one of the finest Cannas for groups in the open air last year, notwithstanding the bad weather ; it always showed up well ; Hofg'arten- direktorWendland, the finest variety of the year : wi'h foliage a rich green, and flowers of an intense velvety dark granite-red, bordered and mottled with canary- yellow ; it is very floriferous, and combined with a neat and compact habit, and its intense colouring make j this a great acquisition — seen towards evening in groups, it is not easily forgotten. Frau Hofgiirt- nerin Singer is a fine variety, with medium-sized, pale jellow flowers, almost white, and very free-flowering ; foliage dark green, and of compact habit. The best of Mr. Ernst's introductions consist of Kbningin Charlotte, a fine variety, with green glaucous leaves, and flowers of a rich granite-red, broadly bordered with yellow ; a fine variety both for pot-culture and for groups ; Fiirst Bismarck, a fine scarlet flower, of an enormous size ; it forms large trusses, and has green foliage bordered with brownish-red. Governeur von Zimmerer, with Bhining brown foliage, and large flowers of an intense orange hue, intermixed with dark red ; Goliath — this Canna is unique, and one of the finest in exis- ence ; it should find a place in every collection, especially for pot-culture under glass ; the foliage is vigorous and dark green ; the large trusses of bloom are very effective, owing to the rich dazzling crims >n colour of the flowers ; it is a somewhat slow grower, and for this reason is not bo suited for the open — the petals are also liable to Buffer from great heat. Prin- cess Pauline : foliage is dark green, and flowers, which are large and well formed, are of a vigorous cinnabar-scarlet, blotched towards the edge with canary-yellow. The above-enumerated Cannas form a collection difficult to beat anywhere, containing many of the finest varieties in commerce ; and I hope that my notes will help to populari-e them in England. At the same time I should strongly advise all who come to Germany, especially the middle and south r-ections, to pay Stuttgart a visit during the summer months, and more especially in August and September. H. R. IP., Stuttgart. HYDRANGEA HORTENSIA FOR MARKET. Our illustration (fig. 12) represents a group of well-grown plants in pots of the common Hydrangea Hortensia, intersected and fringed with a few Ferns for purposes of relief. Messrs. Hill & Co., Wright's Nursery, Lee, Kent, in whose establishment the photograph was taken, are large Fern-cultivators for the trade and for market, besides doing a consider- able market trade in such plants as the Hydrangea. As most of our readers are probably aware, these Hydrangeas are sent to market in 5-inch pots ; they are generally about a foot high, and bear a large globular mass of pink flowers, quite out of proportion to size of plant or pot. The cuttings are taken when the plants have flowered, and being grown on coolly during the Bummer and autumn, make similar plants the following spring. They require a moderately rich, loamy soil. July 16, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 45 THE WATER AND BOG-GARDEN. I should like to say a few words in praise of this kind of garden, as no other garden is so delightful on a hot summer day as the water-garden. In these gardens we have advantages which some do not possess, that is, a small stream of running water that rises from a spring in the middle of a pond, which keeps the pond always brim-full. At one time the overflow-water was wasted, and ran into the Black- water. Some few years ago, it occurred to my employer that he would like to make the ditch that took the overflow look pretty with moisture-loving plants, and this gave me an opportunity that I was The water in this pond varies in depth from 9 to 20 inches. In the deepest water we planted Nyinphaea chromatella, N. odorati gigantea, N. o. rosea, and Nuphar luteum, and in the shallower water Villarsia nymphteoides, and have since aided Nympb;ea Laj- deckeri rosea, N. L. lilacea, N. L. purpurata, N. Marliacea albidu, N. M. cariifa, N. pygmaia alba, N. odorata sulphurea, and N. o. s. grandiflora. These are all doing well, as the water is shallower and much warmer. In pond No. 3 the water is still warmer, and the plants in this pond flower remarkably well. The water is much the same depth as in No. 2 pond, but in No. 3 the water is still warmer, from having been AHsma natans, Oronlium aquaticum, and Villarsra reniformis. Limnocharis is wintered indoors. Pood No. 5. — This pond has 1 foot of water and about IS inches of mud. In this is planted Richardia aethiopica, Butomm umbellatus (the flowering Rush), Pontederia cordata, variegated Rushes, and several sorts of Sagittarias, aud all these flower well, and seem quite at home. Pond No. 6 has water from 18 to 20 inches deep. In this is planted Nymobaei Marliacea carnei, N. odorata sulphurea grandifloru, N. Liydeckeri rosea, N. L. lilacea, N. L. purpurata, N. Candida, N. odorata rosea, N. o. maxima. On all these we have very fine flowers. The over- flow from these ponds is made to form a marshy Fig. 12.— hydrangea hortensia : from Messrs. hill and co., Wright's nursery, lee, kent. (see p. 44. very glad to have. A beginning was first made by planting in the pond where the water rises, the common white Nymphaea alba, Aponogeton dis- tachyon, Hottonia palustris, and in clumps round the edge of the pond, the common yellow Iris pseudc acoru?, and herbaceous Spiraeas. Finding these did remarkably well, we determined to make the ditch into five more small ponds of various depths and shapes, aDd trying all we could not to make them look in any way formal. In the firBt pond, where the water iises, which we will call No. 1, we tried Nymphaea odorata rosea, and a few others which did not flourish ; owing to the water springing there, the sun did not warm it sufficiently for the tenderer sorts, the water is also rather deep, 2 to 3 feet. Pond No. 2 is the first overflow from No. 1 pond. longer in the sun. In this pond is planted Nympbcoa chromatella, N. gigantea, N. caroliniana, N. Laydeckeri rosea, N. L. lilacea, N. pygmaea helveola, N. odorata rosea, N. o. Exquisita, N. o. sulphurea, N. Marliacea albida, N. M. carnea, and N. Nuphar Kalmianum. Round the edge is planted Caltha palustris in clumps, and in the water are two clumps of Pontederia cordata and different sorts of Sagittarias. All the plants in this pond flower remarkably well, and have splendid flowers both in size and colour. Pond No. 4 has shallow water round the outside, but in the centre it is about 20 inches. In the centre is Nymphaea tuberosa, N. tuberosa alba, N. alba plenissima, N. cdorata sulphurea, N. Marliacea gigantea, N. Lay- deckeri rosea, and a fine white seedling. Round the shallow water is planted Limnocharis Humboldti, piece of ground, with pools of shallow water. In this we have planted rougher plants ; but, although we call them rough plants, they look very beautiful in their Beaaon. These plants consist of Bullrushes, water Flags, water Irises, all sorts of herbaceous Spiraeas, Fritillarias, Snowflakes, Hemerocallis fiava, Caltha palustris, Butomus umbellatus, Lythrums, variegated Rushes, Saxifraga peltata, &c. ; and in the pools, common Nymphseas, Menyanthes trifoliata, Caltha palustris, Hottonia palustris, and Aponogeton distachyon. The overflow from this marsh and bog ground is still further made use of, a? it runs away down an open ditch ; on the bank of this ditch are planted several sorts of Spiraeas, several sorts of Lilies, and various sort! of spring-flowering bulbs, and here and there a plant of Qunnera manicata to 46 THE GARDENERS" CHRONICLE, July 16, 1898. wave its noble leaves over the running water in the ditch. We hope to get Bamboos to do. The sur- roundings are alBo made to harmonise with the ponds, &c, by planting in the grass all sorts of flowering bulbs, and many sorts of flowering shrubs. The whole makes a delightful sort of semi-wild garden, and visitors to these gardens always appre- ciate a look round this part of the garden more than the more formal or trim part of the garden. I would like to add a word of warning to those who are thinking of taking up this style of gardening with a view of saving labour ; if you wish for success, you must be at work, or the coarser-growing plants will soon overgrow the more tender and the prettier plants, and the whole thing will become a mass of weeds and rubbish. William Townsend, Sandhurst Lodge, Wokingham, Berks. Belgium. At the Namur Horticultural Exhibition held on June 26, the visitors much admired the Gloxinias sent by M. Kegeljan, the doyen of amateur horticul- turists in Belgium. For twenty years M. Kegeljan has been trying with keen interest to improve these plants, and he has well succeeded. The flowers are of unusual size, as much as 5 inches across. They are erect, of various colours, some very uncommon in tint. Those that were exhibited at Ghent in April excited much attention. Another attraction at the Namur Exhibition were the seedling Roses from MM. Soupert & Notting, of Luxembourg, among which was an excellent variety, Souvenir de Pierre Notting. This is a hybrid between Mare"chal Niel and Maman Coehet, with large elongated buds and very fine -and full flowers, at first yellow, spotted with rose, and then a fine goldea yellow. It is a variety of great promise. E. L. THE USE OF ARTIFICIAL MANURES. In the issue of the Gardeners' Chronicle of May 7, p. 274, Dr. Bonavia refers to the use of artificial manures in conjunction with farmyard or stable- manure, and appears to call in question the advisa- bility of this practice. He further seems to doubt my statement that natural manures could be rendered more useful as plant-food if mixed with suitable artificial manures. The subject is an important one, and we cannot do better than refer to the world-renowned agricultural experiments of Sir John Lawes at Rothamsted for an answer to the question. As Potatos are a garden as well as a farm crop, I will quote some results obtained with this crop first. The following table give3 the results yielded by the use of farmyard manure alone, or with other manures n addition, compared with results obtained without manure : — Table I.— Potatos grown year after year on the same land at Rothamsted. Manures and Produce of Tubers per acre, six years, 1876- 81. Total tubers per acre. Tons. cwts. Unmanured 2 5J Farmyard manure 5 4g Dung and superphosphate 5 11$ Dung, superphosphate, and nitrate of soua . 7 2j It will be seen that the average produce of tubers per acre without manure was about 2} tons, with an annual application of 11 tons of farmyard manure per acre supplying about 200 lb. of nitrogen, there was an average produce over the six years of nearly 5J tons, that is a gain of 3 tons of tubers for the use of the dung ; the addition of superphosphate raised the produce to about 5 tons 12 cwt., an increase of 7 cwt. per acre over the dung alone. By the further addition of nitrate of soda, supplying 86 lb. of nitrogen per acre per annum in a much more readily available condition than those of that in the dung, the annual produce of Potatos was raised to 7 tona 2 cwt., an increase over the dung alone of more than 37 cwt. of tubers per acre. The fact is, that it is only the comparatively small proportion of the nitrogen of farmyard or stable manure which is due to the liquid dejections of the animals that is in a readily and rapidly available con- dition for plants; whilst that due to more or less digested matter passing in the animal fa?ces is more slowly available, and that in the litter remains a very long time inactive in the soil. Hence the addition of nitrogen as nitrate of soda to the farmyard manure had a very marked effect in the growth of the Potato crop. The next table refers to Mangolds, and shows in the same form as previously for the Potatos, the manures applied each year, and the average produce of roots obtained per acre per annum over eight years, 1876—83. Table II. — Mangold Wurzel grown year after year on the same land at Rothamiled. Manures and Produce of Roots per acre. Bight years, 1S76— 83. Roots per acre. Tons. Cwt. Unmanured 4 9 Farmyard manure 15 10 Dung and superphosphate 15 13 Dung, superphosphate, and nitrate of soda 23 10 The figures show that without manure scarcely i\ tons of Mangold roots were produced, while farm- yard manure alone applied at the rate of 14 tons per acre, yielded 15.} tons of roots, and that the addition of superphosphate increased the produce by 3 cwt. per acre. The addition of nitrate of soda supplying S6 lb. of nitrogen per acre to the dung and super- phosphate raised the crop to 23t tons. Showing clearly that when the nitrogen is applied in addition to the farmyard manure in the very easily and rapidly assimilable form of nitrate of soda, the crop of Man- golds is very greatly increased, and that superphos- phate of lime is not without effect. Similar results could be quoted for Sugar-Beet and Swedish Turnips. It may be mentioned that notwithstanding the large amount of potash supplied in 14 tons of farm- yard dung every year, yet in experiments with Mangolds at Rothamsted during the past two years, 1896-97, it was found that the direct application of potash-salts, in addition to the dung, considerably increased the weight of the crop per acre, and greatly tended to its more successful ripening. In growing Cucumbers and Tomatos for market, it is the custom to apply large quantities of farmyard or stable-manure in making up the beds of soil, and then, during the period of fruiting, to push forward the produce by means of quickly available artificial manures. The same practice holds good in the growth of early Cabbage, and in the cultivation of Asparagus, besides many other crops which could be mentioned. In regard to the question of denitrification, it may be stated that denitrification, or loss of nitrogenous plant-food, may take place ia water-logged soils, and in badly-drained pot-cultures. Also, that an organic manure, which is very effective for plant-growth when applied to the soil in small quantities, becomes positively wasteful and injurious when applied in excess, on account of the insufficiency of available oxygen ; a condition of denitrification is thereby set up, and the nitrates are changed back again into nitrites, and dissipated in the elementary form. /. J. Willis, Barpenden. WATER-LILIES AT GUNNERS- BURY HOUSE. Tiiat the finely-coloured hybrid Nymphseas are destined to make a pleasing and novel effect in garden scenery is apparent in the garden at this suburban residence, where the ornamental sheet of water is now made beautiful by a number of large patches of white and coloured Water lilies. These were planted some years ago by Mr. J. Hudson, and several of them have been illustrated in the Gardeners' Chronicle from specimens supplied by him from this collection. The patches measure Beveral yards across. Some of the more effective varie- ties at the present time are a Nymphan of a crimson tint, with pink outer petals ; N. Marliacea, and its varieties carnea, rosea, and roseo-punctata, varying in Bhades of rose-colour ; chromatella, pale-yellow, and Gloriosa, red ; N. odorata exquisita, pink ; N. Layde- keri and N. L. rosea ; N. alba rosea, and other delicately-tinted forms. Of the whites the fine N. tuberosa is very vigorous, and has proportionately large flowers. Growing in a tank, sheltered by some plant-houses, are a number of the bright-blue fra- grant Nyniphsea stellata, none of which has as yet been established in the lake. The beautiful grounds of Gunnersbury House are in excellent order ; the extensive vineries and fruit- houses, which are the first consideration, show heavy crops of fruit ; and the plant-houses include some excellent Orchids, and a very dark Vanda ccerulea. /. O'B. American Notes. WINTER-FORCING OF ASPARAGUS. Some very interesting experimental work in the winter-forcing of Asparagus out of doors has been recently reported by Prof. J. C. Whitten, in a Bulletin of the Missouri Experiment Station. The method used was about as follows : trenches were made between the rows of a well-established Asparagus plot. These were made 3 or 4 inches deeper than the crowns of the Asparagus plants, and were covered with boards, soil being filled in on top of the latter. A mulch of 3 to 4 inches of horse-manure was spread over the whole. This left a series of small covered tunnels between the rows. In the end of each tunnel a piece of tile was inserted, through which hot steam was conducted by a steam-hose connected with a boiler. The first steam was used November 14. It required about an hour the first day to bring the temperature up to the desired point, 60 degrees. The distribution of the heat throughout the bed was very uniform and satisfactory. After the first day very little steaming was necessary to keep the temperature up to the mark. The first Asparagus was cut November 24, ten days after steam was first applied. Cuttings of Asparagus were made almost daily for about a month. Prof. Whitten thinks that the method of exhausting steam directly into the tunnels is better than carrying it through a closed circuit and return it to the boiler. I will transcribe here the very interesting conclusions from the Bulletin .— " 1. Asparagus may be profitably forced iu the open field in midwinter in this climate by running steam into shallow tunnels between the Asparagus rows. 2. The steam, coming in direct contact with the soil, readily penetrates it, heating the whole bed uniformly ; whereas if the tunnels are heated by inclosed steam or hot-water pipes, the soil becomes too hot and dry close to the tunnels, while it is too cold midway between them. 3. Forcing the steam into the tunnels keeps the soil moist, and maintains more continuous fermenta- tion of the manure-mulch, thus promoting steady heat. 4. The Asparagus produced in this way was larger, of finer quality, and the bed produced longer, than that forced by any other method tried. 5. The plants thus forced recuperate by being allowed to grow one summer without cutting, while Asparagus plants transplanted for forcing are ruined by the process. 6. The amount of soft coal used to force a plot of Asparagus, 25 by 25 feet, in this way, from December 29 to February 25 (58 days), was 2,308 lbs., costing 182 dols., or an average of 39 lbs. daily. 7. During these 58 days steam was turned into the tunnels a total of 16j hours, equivalent to 17 minutes daily, or less than 3 minutes daily for each tunnel. 8. The forced Asparagus yielded during the 58 days at the rate of 9,882 buuehes, or 4.S80 pounds per acre. 9. About 5 minutes at a time is as long as steam can be forced into a tuunel without danger of over- heating the Asparagus. ' Of course, a method like this must be tried under various circumstances before its general usefulness July 16, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 47 can be proved ; but the suggestion is certainly a very interesting one, and has the appearance of being practicable under a variety of commercial conditions. " Plum Pockets." A common and serious disease of Plums in all parts of Ameriei is the " plum pockets," or "leaf curl," which deforms young twigs, leaves and fruit. They sometimes destroy practically a whole crop of fruit, and usually spoil a large proportion of the leaves. The curls or pockets are caused by various parasitic fungi of the genus Exoaseus. Our principal know- ledge of the Exoascea) parasitic on Plums iu the United States comes in Atkinson's * excellent con- tribution. He has found Exoascere of one species and another on every well-known species of Plum in the United States, and also on the Peach and on several species of Cherries. Prof. Sturgis, who found the disease very abundant on Japanese Plums in Connecticut recommends close pruning, burning of diseased branches, and spraying with Bordeaux Mixture. Dr. Erwin F. Smith of the National Department of Agriculture, a recognised authority on vegetable pathology, says that experiments in spraying Peaches with Bordeaux Mixture has proved efficient against leaf-curl. It would probably do equally well with Plums. F. A. Waugh. Plant Notes. LACHENALIAS. Seventh years ago reliable plant catalogues enume- rated as many as twenty reputed species of Lachenalia, all classed as greenhouse bulbous plants, and natives of South Africa. L orchioides, a species which dates back to 1752, is probably amongst the oldest, and the genus was named after W. de la Chenal, who was professor of botany at Basle between 1736 and 1800. The forms cultivated in the present day are probably hybrids from L. pendula and L. tricolor, or varieties of these. That some are busy at work raising new types is seen from the fact that novelties frequently put in an appearauce at the meetings of the Royal Horticultural Society at the proper season. L. quadri- olor is sometimes named as a species, but it is now regarded simply as a synonym of tricolor. L. lucida, also known as pallida, introduced 100 yeirs ago, may also have contributed to the forms grown in the p-esent day. As August is the month in which many pot their bulbs, a reference to the process may come as a seasonable reminder. Iu potting, it is a good plan to sort the bulb3, selecting uniformly-sized ones to be potted together, and so secure uniformity in the head of bloom. Four to six bulbs, according to their size, may be placed iu a 5 inch pot, and the compost employed made up of two parts of loam, two parts leaf-mould, and one part each of peat, sand, and well-decayed cow-manure, which can be rubbed to something like mould ; the bulbs covered to the depth of half-an-inch or so. Though some recom- mend giving a good watering to settle the soil about the bulbs, the best plan is to use the compost fairly moist, and not give any water until growth sets in, and then sparingly, but more freely as the foliage develops. Th y can then be placed iu a frame near the glass, protected from the least frost, but giving air on all favourable occasions so as to secure a sturdy growth. Cold draughts should be avoided; if they play directly upon the plants, they are apt to injure the foliage. Cool treatment is decidedly the best, provided they can have adequate protection iu winter, and the cooler they can be maintained when taken to the greenhouse to bloom the better. Lachenalias make charming basket plant3, the strongest bulb3 should be selected for the purpose, and be pretty thickly plant d, to ensure a good display. Some of the prettiest and most effective are tricolor, one of the hardiest, the foliage heavily spotted with brown, the flowers yellow, green, and * Geo. F. Atkinson, "Contribution to the knowledge of the Prunicolous Exoaseese of the United States,'' Bulletin 73, Cornell Experiment Station (1S94). red. Lutea, a variety of this, has flowers altogether yellow, and luteola is yellow flushed with green, and is au early-flowering form. L. lucida, which is found in catalogues under the name of pallida, is regarded as a distinct species, novel in character, the flowers pale, almost white with a tinge of blue, and distinct from the species pallida. L. pendula is one of the earliest to bloom, and also one of the best from a decorative point of view, ruby-red, tipped with deep purple or black. L. quadricolor i« a rather distinct form of tricolor, the yellow ground tinted with green, and marked with deep purple and red. L. Nelsoni is a distinct hybrid, and regarded as an improved form of L. aurea, the flowers golden yellow, and borne in long racemes. When the blooming season is over, the pots are placed in the full sun to thoroughly ripen the bulbs, and on the foliage decaying, the bulbs may be shaken out and stored for repotting at the proper time. E. D. A steamer touching at the island would remedy thi3 with cheap freight charges. This would enable fruit- growers to ship to more distant markets, where the fruit, being of exceptionally good quality, would probably find a ready sale. Colonial Notes. TENDER FRUITS FROM CANADA. Most people learn by experience, and pay a fan- price therefor. The Canadian Agricultural Depart- ment last year tried the experiment of sending to the mother country samples of the more tender fruits grown in the Dominion — Peaches, Pears, Grapes, Tomatos. The storing and packing of the first lot were not conducive to success ; the second experi- ment was more successful, as was shown by the condition of the fruit on its receipt here. But then came up the cost of picking, packing, storing, carry- ing, marketing, &c, aud it was found that the venture was not quite the success hoped for — the Department was out of pocket. But the experience gained was of such a nature that no doubt is now actually felt as to the ultimate success of the under- taking— that the exportation of Canada's tender fruits to this country will ultimately, and that soon, pay. We can only wish our Canadian friends success, which they will find in careful selection, and an avoidance of gluttiug the market, when all difficulties have been overcome. Grapes from the Cape. It will be remembered that during the late season we had to place on record the arrival hy every steamer from the Cape of large consignments of wet and spoilt Grapes, the result of packing in a wet condition, or of bad packing, for the other portions of the cargo arrived in very fine condition. The Agricultural Department at Cape Town state that these damaged consignments were the ventures of private persons, and cannot give particulars ; at any rate, the facts may be published in the Deparmcnt's Journal as a warning — that is, if the loss already sustained be not found a sufficient deterrent to wrong-doing. The Virgin Islands. Far removed as these are from "the madding crowd," there is still sufficient squabbling in Tortola and the minor islands to necessitate the employment among the 5000 inhabitants of some fifty rural police. Furercei cubensis and a Bromeliad, locally called "Date," grow in profusion everywhere, and the Commissioner feels sure that a fibre-mill worked economically under the personal supervision of the proprietor would give remunerative results. Taking up the manufacture of lime-juice would in the hands of persons of small capital bo nothing short of salva- tion. The Lime-tree flourishes here wherever grown ; there is no blight, no lengthened period of drought, nothing but what is eminently suited for it. The natives appear to take no interest in this industry. Fruit-trees bear exceptionally well in these islands, and were a source of income to the community when the Royal Mail depot was at St. Thomas ; but now the withdrawal of steamers to Barbados, aud the importation of American fruit to St. Thomas ousts the native producers, and deprives them of a market, their small gains being further reduced by untrust- worthy shipowners, who defraud the producer, and take no trouble to prevent the fruit being spoiled. THE FAN-COOLER IN FRUIT- SHIPS. Almost from the time when it was first proposed to bring home from the Colonies their over-produc- tion of meat and fruit, the idea of using the fan in forcing a down-draught of fresh air through the cargo in the hold of a ship has been favourably entertained, principally on the score of economy, the low rate of freight, &c. The idea, however, seems to have hung fire ; the risks in a test on a large scale had, perhaps, something to do with delay in making the experi- ment. Of late days, however, it was determined to try the air-fan on a cargo of fruit from the Anti- podes— the venture has been made; but if the results are not quite as the sanguine experimenters anticipated, they are not altogether disheartening, and doubtless will be repeated, and with better chances of success. On the present occasion the fan was driven by electricity, and at a critical period in the voyage the mechanism is stated to have broken down ; but all the same, a large portion of the fruit- consignment was unloaded in very good condition. This we have on excellent authority as to the modus operandi, that will be easily understood — air is forced through the cargo, cooling to some extent as it goes, but in passing back into the atmosphere carrying off the taint of partial decomposition. We can only wish success to this application of the fan, and to the plucky experimenters. E. O. Florists' Flowers. CARNATIONS AT BIRDSALL HALL, YORK. Souvenir de la Malmai3on Carnations are so seldom cultivated to perfection, that I am tempted to write a few lines in praise of a magnificent lot I saw at Birdsall Hall, the seat of Lord Middleton, last week. The house they are grown in many would consider quite unsuitable for the successful growing of these lovely flowers, as it is too lofty, and yet Mr. Bailey Wadds year by year has little or no trouble with them, the high state of perfection to which he has succeeded shows what obstacles can be over- come if there is a will to do so. The house, which is 70 feet long, 15 feet wide, and about 20 feet high, is entirely filled with some 500 to 600 plants all in bloom, fifty of which are two-year-old plants, grown in 12-inch pots, and carrying from twenty to thirty flowers'; the plants generally are as full of bloom as it is possible for them to be, and yet Mr. Wadds tells me he is continually cutting some for house decorations. The quantities of the four or five varieties he grows are about equally balanced,- but some very fine poti of the red variety make a striking picture upon entering the house. There are also a very fine lot of Tree Carnations cultivated for winter- blooming in mo3t of the leading kinds, which, from their present appearance, should make a fine display when their more favoured rivals, the Malmaison, have finished blooming. F. O. Edwards. Vegetables. CARROT CARTER'S LONG FORCING. This forcing Carrot is one of the most distinct and valuable that we possess, and when better known it is sure to be extensively grown. It is the quickest variety that I know of, makes but very little top, aud the quality is excellent. As a Carrot coming into use early in the year, and for exhibition, it is an acquisition. New Pea Thomas Laxton. I was glad to notice in the report of a meeting at the Royal Horticultural Society's garden, published 48 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 16, 1898. ia last week's Gardtners Chronicle, that an award was made to this fine early Pea. I have grown the variety for the first time this season alongside of several excellent varieties, and am much pleased with it. It is said to be a cross between Gradus and Earliest - of - All, but it greatly resembles Ne Plus Ultra, excepting that the pods are double the size, and so much quicker. With us it is earlier than Gradus, and only a few days behind Earliest-of- All and other earlies. The flavour is excellent, and moreover it is sure to find a prominent place on the exhibition table. I predict for this Pea a great future. Generally speaking, Peas are late, and fill very slowly this season. E. Beckett. [The pods of the new variety sent for our inspec- tion were of moderate size, closely filled with large, square Marrow Peas, of a good green colour, some of them already getting past their best, proving how early it is in turning-in. Provided Thomas Laxton fulfils the requirements of the private and market- gardener in regard to cropping, it is likely to become a popular Pea. Ed.] Carrots. At one time I preferred the three varieties, Early Nantes, James' Intermediate, and Altrincham Carrots, and I was never disappointed with the first and last- named, although I often was with the Intermediate. Whether it was a particular strain, or the soil did not suit it, or what it was that was at fault I am unable to say, but it grew very coarse, and split to such an extent that I almost ceased to grow it. The Altrincham variety was always very good in quality, and when cooked it was of a nice red colour. It has another recommendable point in the smallness of the core. Early Nantes never failed me. The hand- somest Carrot I have ever grown is Veitch's Matchless, which in quality, colour, and shape, is not to be excelled. For the benefit of those who do not know it, I will say that it is of the "interme- diate" type, and is indispensable on the exhibition- table. The land for a Carrot crop should be got into a very deep fine state of tilth, and unless this be done if it be heavy soil, there will be many deformed roots. Another matter that demands attention is the early thinning of the plants, which should be done with great care, and if the soil be dry the row should be copiously watered when the thinning is over, in order to wash the soil into the holes made by the with- drawal of roots, and settle the plants that are left for a crop. II. Markham. Cauliflower, Veitch's Extra Early Forcing. This variety has this year surpassed itself in size, and, if possible, in quality likewise. From seed sown under glass the first week in February, the plants beiDg put out on a south border as soon as ready, I cut heads in the first week of June, and this without any artificial protection being given, and in a cool climate. This speaks well for the earliness of this variety. The circumference of a head, and that not the largest, was found to be 1 8 inches, which is rather over the average of former years. For several years past we have been enabled to cut heads of this variety before the late Broccolis were over; the last of the latter was cut on June 9. J. Easter, Noslell Priory Gardens. The Week's Work. PLANTS UNDER GLASS. By W. Messenger, Gardener to C. H. Berners, Esq., Woolverstone Park, Ipswich. Stove Plants. — Most inmates of the stove are in full growth, and endeavours should be made to keep them free from insect foes. If Thrips, scale, or mealy-bug are present, and these are not promptly dealt with, the plants will be quickly disfigured, and their vitality lowered. The best remedy is to thoroughly clean with a sponge the infe3ted plants with Richards' XL-all liquor, or the ordinary paraffin emulsion. Avoid tbe use of a hard or a pointed instrument when removing the insects from the foli- age, much damage often resulting therefrom, but attach a piece of sponge or soft rag to a small label. It is a good practice to dip such plants as can be easily handled and will bear the process without injury, once a week or fortnightly, in a weak solution of either the above insecticides, which will usually render further measures unnecessary. Affording water, syringing, shading, ventilating, and damping-down are the principal points of stove-management at the present time, and the progress of the plants will largely depend upon these being properly carried out. Much attention must be given to ventilation, the present season being abnormal in the suddenness and extent of the changes of temperature during the day. Rather let the warmth in the house get above the normal than run risks from admitting cold draughts. Carefully guard againstadry air in the house, damping- down frequently, and maintaining a healthy con- dition by using the apparatus in dull, cool weather, a stuffy stagnant state of the air being adverse to the welfare of the plants. Chrysanthemums. — The shootB should be tied securely, these being easily broken off by wind. In showery weather do not be misled by the damp appearance of the soil in the pots, but afford water when it is required. As a general rule to be observed, the pots should be rapped or lifced before water is applied to the soil. Some of the stronger- growing varieties require more water than others ; and if possible, it should be the duty of one man to look- after these plants, as only one such man can properly understand the needs of special varieties. Aphis is sure to infest the young growths, and must be got rid of by dusting with tobacco-powder, or washing with quassia or tobacco-water. In fine weather, damp the plants overhead morning and evening. HARDY FRUIT GARDEN. By W. H. Divers, Gardener to the Duke of Rutland, Belvoir Castle, Grantham. Apples. — It will now be an easy matter to distin- guish those fruits which will make the best speci- mens, or which are best for special purposes on bushes, espaliers, &c, and if the trees are too heavily laden with fruit they should be relieved of a good many, one fruit in a cluster sufficing if they are expected to reach the largeBt size to which the variety can attain. Good colour usually goes with good flavour, and it is essential in dessert fruits, especially in fruits that are to be exhibited. To enable fruits to colour well, direct sunlight must reach them, and the best positions aie the strong branches which project beyond the main portion of the crown. At this date much of the young growths arising in the middle of the crown may be removed ; but plenty of branches and shoots covered with full-sized leaves must be left till the development of the fruits. Some care is necessary in dealing with trees that have suffered from mildew or insect-enemies, these not being pruned so closely as others which have escaped injury. It is good practice to apply chemical manure in the case of heavily-cropped Apple-trees, or those from which large fruits are desired ; and a good mixture for the purpose consists of nitrate of soda one-sixth, muriate of potash one-sixth, superphosphate of lime four sixths, to be applied to the soil over the roots at the rate of I lb. per square jard, that is, as far as the feeding roots extend, lightly forking it in ; and over this should be put a thick mulching of half- decayed light manure — not heavy, wet, over-rich stuff, which keeps the air, and consequently the sun's warmth, out of the soil that it is laid upon. In dry weather, water must be afforded copiously once in ten days, using clear water only the first time after the manure mulch is applied, and afterwards manure - water occasionally alternately with clear river, rain, or pond water. Let the land be stirred periodically with the Dutch-hoe, thus keeping down weeds, and preventing the evaporation of the moisture. Tomatos. — Those plants only that have set fruits heavily should be assisted with a suitable chemical manure, as nitrate of soda, superphosphate of lime, and potash, if the soil be deficient in these, and an occa- sional application of water in dry weather. Remove all of the lateral shoots, keeping the plants to one stem, and preserving the principal leaves entire as long as they continue healthy, fastening the stems to their supports as they continue to grow in height. In cool or showery weather do not afford manure as if this be persisted in, the various fungous diseases the plant is liable to are apt to be engendered. afterwards singling the plants 7 to 8 inches apart. In showery weather during this month make another sowing for use in October. This should be a large sowing, as should the weather be free from frosts of saverity in the late autumn and early winter, the roots will continue in a usable condition till the New Year. Spinach. — Frequent sowings should be made of the round - seeded, Monstrous de GiroBay, or Long Stander Spinach, during this month, and a piece of ground prepared for winter Spinach. This should be dug over twice, and well pulverised each time, so that the Spinach moth-grub may be extir- pat( d by the birds ; and it should not be heavily manured, or the plants will succumb if the frosts are severe. The position of the piece of land should be warm and sheltered from the east and north, and the sowings may be made now and at the end of the present month, affording a space of 2 feet between the drills, drawing these 1 inch deep. Cabbage.— It is a matter of importance to sow Cabbage seed for the first early summer- crop next year at the proper time. In the south and warmer parts of the country the end of the month or early in August is soon enough, but in the north generally, and in all late districts, the middle of July is a safe and suitable date. The seed-bed should be on a^south or west border in late districts, and in the open quarter in the warmer ones ; it should be manured with decayed manure, because something readily available is required by the seedlings, and for the same reason this dressing should not be placed deeper than 3 inches. Having dug the ground, proceed to roughly level it with a rake, then trample it firmly and evenly all over, rake it finely, and it is ready for sowing. The seed may be broadcasted or drilled, and if it be new seed, this should be done thinly. The bed or drills may be covered with siftings from1 the potting-shed, if the staple be clayey or unkindly. Good varieties to sow twice during this month are Ellam's Early, Sutton's Earliest, Wheeler's Imperial, and Enfield Market. Parsley. — Seed Bhould be sown in a bed by the side of a walk, in a manner that admits of cold frames being placed over a good breadth in the winter. Eschallots and Garlic- — When the leaves wither, lift, dry, and store like Onions. General Work. —Attend to directions given last month in regard to weeding, hoeing, affording water to crops, and the earthing-up of such as require it. Continue to plant vacant ground with Savoys, Borecoles, and Sprouting Broccolis, and set out a few more Leeks if this vegetable is much in demand. Put stakes and broad ties to Cardoons, and see that they do not lack water at the root ; similar attention being afforded the stems of Asparagus. Con- tinue to plant out Lettuces, Endive, and make weekly sowings of these plants, and of Radishes and Cresses. In view of the many fungus diseases and insect-pests engendered in refuse of all kinds, the Potato-tops, vegetable thinnings, weeds, &c, should be removed to the rubbish heap at short intervals of time, and buried undtr fermenting dung so as to destroy all germs and eggs as rapidly as possible. Potato-tops affected by Peronospora infestans should be charred forthwith. The removal of all such rubbish from the vegetable garden not only renders it tidier, but sweeter and more presentable. THE KITCHEN GARDEN. By J. W. McHattie, Gardener to the Duke of Wellington, Strathfieldsaye, Hants. Turnips. — The June sowing will now be ready for singling and hoeing, first chopping the line of plants into small clumps with a draw-hoe, and a few days FRUITS UNDER GLASS. By G. Norman, Gardener to the Marquess of SALISBURY^ Hatfield House, Herts. Grape Vines. — Vines from which the bunches have been removed should be afforded plenty of water at the roots whenever a test shows that the Boil is dryish, the Vines being syringed twice or thrice a week ; and most of the side-shoots may be allowed to grow unchecked till the end of the season, and the vinery kept cool by affording full ventilation. Those vineries in which the fruit is ripe must also be freely afforded air when the weather is dry, the venti- lators being closed in rainy and foggy weather, at which times allow a slight degree of warmth in the heating apparatus. Of course the gardener who has ripe Grapes hanging on his Vines must exclude wasps from his vinery, or there will be much loss of fruit. Thin canvaB, hexagon netting, scrim, &c, may be used, so- curely tacking it over all openings, including the door- ways. The borders of all the late vineries will, if in good order and efficiently drained, require an occasional thorough application of water. 1 1 is a prudent course to examine a Vine-border once a week, water being July 16, 1898.] THE GARDENERS CHRONICLE, 49 r. Horded to such as are merely moist, and occasional manure-water. The damping of the vineries must be in accord with the prevailing weather, four times leing not too often on bright days, and once or twice on sunless days, and scarcely at all in wet weather. When the colouring of the fruit begins, less and less moisture is required in the air, and damping down must cease altogether at thj final stage. The stopping of side-shoots must still be followed up, not however doing this by fits and starts, or the cracking of the berries may occur, which is also due to other causes, as for example letting the border get very dry and then affording large quan- tities of water ; keeping the vinery close when colouring begins, is also conducive to this malady. The Madresfield Court Grape is a variety mostly liable to have split berries, and the best means to prevent splittiug is to maintain a little more heat in the heating apparatus at the period when the variety is most liable to split, namely, when colour first shows in the fruit. This additional artificial heat should not be afforded at those times when the sun may happen to be shining warmly, but earlier and later in the day. The ventilation should be fairly good, but not excessive, and it should be constant, the upper lights only being closed to keep out the rain. The removal of laterals should cease when this variety begins to put on colour. As a rule of general application, the vinery in which are Grapes beginning to colour should not be closed entirely, but air afforded at the top of the house always, and in warm weather this may be supplemented by a little in the front. Let the ther- mometer stand at 70° at duek, and fall to 65° at day- break ; on dull days 70° to 75° will be high enough, and 80° to 85° if the sun shines brightly. Afford air in the forenoon at 70°, increasing it in amount at 75°, and again at 80°, and allow the warmth then to rise 5° more. Commence to reduce the amount of air as the warmth declines, and close at 3 p.m. THE ORCHID HOUSES. By W. H. White, Orchiit Grower to Sir Trevor Lawrence, Bart., Burford, Dorking. Cypripedium caudatum and other species. — This most attractive and curious species is but seldom seen in a healthy, vigorous condition. The principal causes of this is a too high temperature, and insuffi- cient ventilation. The best position for the plant is on the north side of the intermediate-house, where it will get plenty of fresh air, and a suitable light. If the plants require additional pot-room this season, the work 6hould be done at once, and if healthy, they will require pots at least two sizes larger than they at present occupy. Fill the pots one-third full of drainage material, and cover this with a thin layer of sphagnum-moss. Peat and moss in equal parts, mixed, and a few broken crocks, form suitable compost, and a few nodules of tufa-stone may be used with the soil. Prick in a few living heads of sphagnum over the surface of the compost. In the case of unhealthy p'ants, turn them out of the pots, and remove the old soil, then cut off all dead roots, and repot the plants in pots just large enough to hold them, using a little of the same compost as for the stronger speci- mens. After repotting, keep the soil just moist, and when the plants have commenced to grow freely, frequent waterings will be necessary. Uropedium Lindeni is very similar in growth to this Cypripedium, and should be treated in the same way. C. Schlimi, C. Dominianum, C. albo-purpureum, C. Juno, C. vexil- I mum, C. Arthurianum, C. Statterianum, C. Fairie- anum, C. Mastersianum, C. H. Ballantine, aod C. radiosum, should all be grown in a shady corner of the same house. They are now growing freely, and require liberal waterings. Ccclogync cristata and its varieties, require pit nty of water at the root at this season, but the soil must not be kept in a saturated condition. Several large specimens here are afforded a soaking about once a week, and those in smaller pots more frequently. A Blight dewing overhead at closing time will assist tbe plants to make strong pseudo-bulbs. The pretty and distinct C. Veitchiana thrives best when sus- pended from the roof in small shallow fans, and ooly a very thiu layer of peat and sphagnum-moss. Since the completion of growth, water has been afforded sparingly, but now that the plant is producing its pendulous flower-spike1, more water will be needed. MiVonias. — Plants of M. spectabilis, II. Moreliann, M. Lubbersiana, and others of that section that are showing their flower-spikes should be given as much light as possible without direct sunlight, and pleuty of root moisture is needed until the new growths are completed. M. Schroderiana now sending up i's flower-spikes, is a rare and handsome species requiring a moist shady position in the Cattleya or intermediate- house. Oymbidiums. —Abundance of water should now be afforded to strong well-rooted plants of C. Lowianum, C. eburneum, C. Devonianiim, C. ohloranthum, C. Tracyanum, C. elegans, C. Mastersii, C. Lowio- eburneum, C. eburneo- Lowianum, C. Hookerianum, &&, but such plants that have been recently repotted will need care. Cymbidiums grow well in a shady part of the intermediate-house, Odontoglossum-house, or cool Fernery. The Cool-house. — Such plants as Ltelia pumila, L. pnostans, L. Dayana, and Cattleya marginata, are just commencing to grow. If a suitable position can be found (or them in this house where they can obtain plenty of light, they may remain there until the autumn, but where the Odontoglossums are heavily shaded it will be advisable to remove these species to a cool part of the intermediate-house. From the present time Lselia pumila, &c, will require to be kept moist at the root until the new growths are made up. The plants may be afforded fresh rooting material as soon as new roots appear at the base of the current season's growth ; they are best cultivated in shallow pans that can be suspended close to the roof-glass. Such thin-bulbed species as Ladia Dormaniana, L. harpophylla and Cattleya bicolor should be elevated well up to the light in the Cattleya-house. Lrelia Lindleyana thrives best when suspended in a light position in an intermediate temperature. Dendrobium Kingianum, D. tereteti- folium, and D. linguirorme should be suspended in the cool-house where they will get plenty of light. Daring growth these species require to be kept thoroughly moist, and while at rest moderately dry at the root. Keep the Lycastes well shaded from all sunshine, and damp frequently between the pots. Avoid letting water lodge in the centres of the young growths. ture variety of recent introduction, whose height is about 6 inches, which I saw in the Coombe Wood Nursery of Messrs. J. Veitch & Sons recently, should be useful as a permanent edging plant. Rose York and Lancaster. — For a continuity of bloom and varied tint, this is a very effective, single- flowered Rose. The plants do best when pruned somewhat hard, and generally it is of easy culture, and quite indifferent as to soil, although [naturally thriving best in good loam. THE FLOWER GARDEN". By H. Walters, Gardener to Lord Gerrard, Eastwell Park, Ashford. Dentzia crenata flore pltna.--k% a middle or front row plant in the shubbery, this species of Deutzia is a suitable and proper kind of sub shrub, flowering in summer, and in good soil and sunny situations being literally covered with flowers, which are white, and as its name implies double, which under bright sun- light gradually become at tho base of a pinkish hue. It makes a pretty solitary or group plant on the lawn, and it is perfectly hardy. The pruning should be performed as soon as the flush of flowering is passed. In old specimens, if the weak flowerless wood be cut out, and the strongest shoots cut back to half their length or less, or not at all, as fancy may dictate, long graceful shoots are made the same year, which form perfect wreaths of blossoms the next year. Young plants till they are well furnished with shoots, require their best shoots to be cut back rather severely for a few years. It likes a soil well drained, and fairly good ; if peat and loam be mixed with the staple, root and top growth are assisted. Philadclphus coronarius and others. — These are handsome summer-flowering shrubs, of which tbe common Mock Orange is a type. P. coronarius is ra'her tall in growth, and is a plant that should have plenty of room for full development ; whilst the ethers, like P. micropbyllus, are smaller, and more compact of habit, making pretty miniature trees if grown or worked on 3 to 4 feet high stems. Hydrangea paxiculala alba. — This is another useful summer-flowering sbrub for the front rows of shrub- beries, or for planting in large beds. The plant revels in a good soil, and when plenty of manure has been afforded, the flowers come very large. They are borne in panicles at the ends of the shoots. It is very effective when used as a dot-plant, or for the centres of large beds, or when intermingled with scarlet zonal Pelargoniums. Some other uscrul varieties are Thomas Hogg, and H. grandiflora, H. japonica stellata, and H. japonica Mariesii. Hypericum. — For the covering of banks, and planting in dry places under the shade of trees, for forming ornamental coverts, and the front rows of clumps and shrubberies, H. calycinum, or St. John's Wort, is probably one of the best surmner- flowering subjects. The colour of tbe flower is jellow, as it is in all the species, of which there are many. Some are of a small, and others of a large growth, and some attain a height of 4 feet. They mostly flower throughout the summer. A minia- THE APIARY. By ExrERT. How to commence Bee-keeping. — There are many things in bee-keeping which may be considered of importance ; the beginner should understand all of these if he or she would bo successful, hence no one should enter the ranks of bee-keepers without first reading some of the many good works on bee-keep- ing. There are more good books on this subject than can be named here. Having procured one of these books, carefully read it two or three times, till the whole is familiar to you from beginning to end, when you will be ready to subscribe for and read intelligently one or more of the several good bee- keeper's journals there are published here and in the United States. Having got so far. I will tell you one of the many other things you will need to know, for on this hings very much of that which will bring pros- perity. In nearly all localities where bees can be kept, there are certain plants and trees which give a yield of surplus honey at a certain time of year, whilo, aside from this, there is little more honey obtained by the bees than is needed to supply their daily wants. Some localities give a surplus at three stated periods, others at two, while the majority give only one such yield. Hence, it must be apparent to all, that if such a honey-yield (or yields) passes by without any surplus, nono can be obtained during the season. From this it will be seen that in oreler to be a success- ful apiarist, a person must have a knowledge of his locality, and also know how to secure the labourers (bees) at the right time, so they can be on hand when tbe honey-harvest is at its best. Failing to do this, there is little or no profit in apiculture, and my main reason for writing on this subject is that those who read may obtain the best results from their bees. Practically first, then, we have the location. In Central New York, says an American writer, the honey - crop comes mainly from Linden or Basswood, which blooms from July 2 to 15, and lasts from ten days to three weeks, according to the weather. In other localities in this S'ate, White Clover is the main crop, coming in bloom from June 10 to 16, ami again, in others. Buckwheat, yielding honey in August ; but as the larger part of those living in the Northern States have a yield of honey from Basswood, I will speak of that as the harvest in illustrating what I wish to. Bear in mind, however, tbat it devolves on the reader of this to ascertain by careful watching just when and what is the source of his surplus honey, so as to work accordingly. After having determined when we. may expect our harvest of honey, the next step is to secure the bees in just the right time lor that harvest. If you havet a field of grain to cut, you hire the labourers when the grain is ripe — not before or afterward ; yet in keeping bees, hundreds pay no attention to the matter of securing labourers, so that as a rule they are generally produced so as to become consumers rather than producers, and for this reaeon we often hear persons exclaiming that bee-keeping does not pay. Tbe queen is the mother of all the bees in a colony, she laying all the eggs producing them. Under the greatest stimulation Bhe is capable of lay- ing from 3000 to 4000 eggs a day, yet often she is laying only from 500 to 1000 eggs daily at the time she should be doing her best. After the egg is laid, it takes three days for it to hatch into a little larva. This larva is fed six days, during which time it has growu so as to fill the eel1, when it is capped over, and remains hid from view f i r twelve more days, when it emerges a perfect bee. This bee now works inside of the hive for sixteen days more, when the colony is in a normal condition, eloing such work as feeding the larvoa, building comb, evaporating nectar, &c , when it is ready to go out- sHe as a field-labourer, and at forty-five days, during the working season, from the time of hatching, it dies of old age, and another generation takes its place. From the above, it will be Been that the egg must be laid at least thirty-seven days before the honey- harvest, in order that our bees have the opportunity of labouring in that harvest to the best advantage. (To be continued.) 50 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 16, 1898. APPOINTMENTS FOR THE ENSUING WEEK. 8ATTJRDAY, July 16 { ^^f^" R°S<> ^ Horticul- WlnNESDAT iFIT. i, I Car Jiff and County Horticultural WIUHBbtlAI, JCLTJD-j Society'9 Show (2 days). THURSDAY, JrLT SI— Bidcup Rose Shaw. SATURDAY, *"-vi3{Ro^ti^tanl0 Boolety- Gen,ral S A L E 8. Clearance Sale of 40 GreenbouseB, Piping, and the whole of the Plants, at the Nurseries, High Road, Tottenham, by order of the Executors of Mr. George Beckwith, by Protheroe & Morris. WEDNESDAY, July 20 J FRIDAY, July ,,2 / Imported and Established Orchids, \ at Protheroe & Morris' Rooms. Average Temperature for the ensuing week, deduced from Observations of Forty-three Years, at Chiswick.— 63 4°. Actual Temperatures : — London.— July 13 (6 p.m.) : Max., 68°; Min., 54°. Provinces. — July 13 (6 p.m.) : Max., 70°, South-west Counties ; Min., 60°, Sumburgh Head. Fine, warm. Cyanide of Experiments of an extensive and rotasstum as an exhaustive nature have been insecticide. carried on in recent years under Government direction in the United States of America, with the view of discovering a cheap and effective insecticide, which ordinary people might use with ease and certainty for the destruction of noxious insects in greenhouses and similar glass structures in which plants are cultivated. Among numerous other in- gredients fatal to insect-life which have been experimented with on a large scale, and carefully tested on all kinds of plants grown in glass structures, the cyanide of potassium has been found to approach nearest to the standard aimed at — cheapness and efficiency, facility of application, and cer- tainty in its results — when used in accordance with a few simple conditions. The fumes of cyanide of potassium in a diluted state, are well known to be one of the most effective agents that can be employed for the destruction of the common wasp, Vespa vulgaris. A few drops of the diluted solution on a small bit of soft woollen rag, or a little cotton-wool, or wadding, carefully inserted in the mouth of a wasp's nest, leaving room for the wasps to pass out and in over it, is fatal to all the wasps that come within the influence of the deadly fumes of the potassium. Most gardeners and fruit- growers are aware of this valuable property of the cyanide of potassium, and although it is a deadly poison and must always be handled with the greatest caution, they have learned to use it with freedom and safety in the open air for the destruction of that great enemy to the British fruit-grower, the common wasp. Its use as a general insecticide inside of glass structures has not hitherto been in vogue in this country, but the success which has attended its use in the United States fully warrants an exhaustive trial of its merits in our plant-stoves and greenhouses. The following particulars about the insec- ticide and the method of using it are by a skilful gardener in charge of an extensive garden and ranges of glasshouses in the valley of tho Hudson, in the State of New York, who vouches for its success and economy, after using it solely for clearing his houses of insect- pests for the past eighteen months : — " Having in readiness a quantity of cyanide of potassium and sulphuric acid, sufficient of each for the operations in hand, a number of stone- ware jars, and a kettle of hot- Water, the work is carried on as follows : Pour first about a pint of boiling hot-water into a jar, and then add 1! pint of sulphuric acid, and let the mixture stand till it begins to boil rapidly, which itjwill do in a minute or so. The cyanide of potassium is then added, in the proportion of one and eight-tenths of a grain to every cubic foot of free-space contained in the house to be operated upon. In calculating the free-space iu the house (or the cubic feet of air contained in it), allowance must be made for all staging, heating-apparatus, pots, soil, and bulky plants, &c, so as to get at the exact number of cubic feet of air, or free-space, which the fumes have to fill. The proper quantity of the cyanide to fill this space should be placed in a thin but strong paper-bag, or bags, if the house is large ; and the bag, or bags, should be no larger than is necessary, although for safety a second paper-bag may be used over the first one. A few eyelets or hooks should be inserted in the woodwork of the roof to carry a string from the door to imme- diately over the jar in which the mixture of water and sulphuric acid is boiling, and one of the small bags of cyanide is fastened to the end of the string and suspended a few inches above the boiling liquid in tho jar, the other end of the string being securely tied outside the door. The house now must be closely shut up, and every person being outside of it, the operator unties the string, and allows the bag of cyanide to drop into the jar of boiling liquid, which quickly destroys the paper-bag and dis- perses the cyanide in fumes to every corner and cranny of the house. The operator, after releasing the string and dropping the bag into the jar, should, for safety from any fumes which may escape through a hole or crevice in the house or door, stand back a few paces until the oyanide has performed its deadly work. In exactly twenty-five minutes from the time the bag was dropped, by which time the fumes will have found their way into every hole and corner where an insect may be biding, and killed it, the doors and ventilators, and all sliding sashes, should be thrown wide open, so as to allow the foul air to escape as quickly as possible, the operator being very careful not to breathe it, else consequences may be serious. In about twenty minutes, or at most half-an- hour, according to the amount of ventilation that is given, the house will bo safe to enter ; but it is obvious that in dealing with such a poisonous gas one cannot be too careful in running any risk that can be avoided. No person should venture into the house whilo thero are any of the fumes in it, as they will kill almost any animal in a few seconds, and man is as easily affected by them as any of the lower animals. In fact, they will kill every living thing that breathes, and hence their value in exterminating insects, of which none will be found alive after the house has been fumigated in the manner described with the cyanide of potassium. All damp must be driven out of the house, and the plants should bo quite dry in their foliage before commencing to fumigate them with the cyanide, because if there is any mois- ture on the leaves and young growths, they are liable to get scorched. AH being dry and in good order, the process may be carried out with perfect safety to tho plants ; and houses full of Palms, Perns, Roses, Violets, Carnations, and other tender plants and flowers, have been treated as described during the past winter and spring with the most successful results, the insects being completely destroyed and neither a flower nor a leaf hurt in the least. The cyanide should be as pure as possible, and of course handled with the greatest care to prevent any accident; in short, it should be treated exactly the same as all poisons must be treated according to law, and there is then no danger in using such a valuable insecticide. The amount of water and sulphuric acid to be put into a jar varies with the size of the house, which regulates the amount of cyanide to be used. The water must always be first placed in the bottom of the jar, and the proportion of water to sulphuric acid is always the same — two parts of water to three parts of acid — and the quantity of that mixture in the jar should be just sufficient to completely submerge the bag of cyanide when dropped into it. The operator must also be sure the liquid is boiling before the bag is dropped. If it is not boiling rapidly, pour in a little more sulphuric acid, but be careful not to overdo it, which would waste the materials and do more harm than good. Should large or long houses require to be fumigated, the number of jars can bo increased to the needful extent, distributing them evenly throughout the house, and taking the strings out through the ventilators, or a small hole bored in the woodwork for the purpose. In fact, there is no structure for growing plants in which this insecticide cannot be applied ; but while that is the case, it should never be used in conservatories or plant-houses attached to a mansion, or dwelling-house, where there is a possibility of the noxious gas finding its way into the rooms. With due caution, and careful manipulation, the cyanide of potassium may prove a great boon to the horticulturist." The Pleasure ground at East Burnham BEECHES.— Our illustration (6g. 13, p. 51), shows a view in the gardens at Mr. H. J. Veitch's resi- dence, East Burnham. That the owner should, after his long and varied experience in horticulture, leave the beaten track in the laying- out of his own garden, and show his sympathy with the natural method in preference to the formal and symmetrical, is perhaps no more than we should expect. This style appeals to most of us, and especially to those who have looked for a long course of years on what is, after all, the architect's garden, the garden in which the plumet, the theodolite, and measuring-rod dominate every feature to the exclusion of the natural, except- ing when in leading strings. The trees seen iu the picture were, of course, existing there when Mr. Veitch bought the place, and in this part he has been satisfied to merely supply the embroidery to the clumps and belts of them, and furnish a pool of irregular outline in the dark nook for the sake of affording variety and as a homo for a few aquatics, including Marliac's Water-Lilies. It would appearthat a ditch bisects the turf, as is suggested by the clumps of rushes, the giant Heracleum, the Epimedium, Spineas, and other moisture-loving plants bordering the sides. Doubtless the lovely Japan Irisis find a suitable home hereabouts. The white-flowered niafs seen at the angle of the clump on the right- hand consists of Crambe cordifolia, a hardy herba- cious perennial from the northern Caucasus moun- tains, and growing to a height of six feet. Those who know their hardy herbaceous perennial plants well will have no difficulty in suggesting a number of them suitable for adding the charms of habit, leaf, aDd flower to the scene depicted. Botanical Magazine. — The July number contains coloured figures and descriptions of the following plants : — Cidogyne flwaniana, Rolfe. — A native of the Philippine Islands, closely related to C. Dayana, but the present plant is smaller, the sepals and petals are not retlexed at the margins ; t. 7602. Callicantltemum rutafoliumvar. uncmonoidcs. — An herbaceous plant, with tufts of palmately divided foliage, long peil uncles bearing single flowers at their extremity, each about l'j inch broad. The construc- tion of the flower is similar to that of an Hepatica ; t. 7003. July 16, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 51 Iris Grant-Duffi. — A yellow-flowered, rhizotnatous species, whoso falls are pencilled with purple streaks, and whose disc is marked with an orange-coloured central blotch. Native of Palestine ; t. 7604. Eria latibraeteata. — The plant forms a chain of rounded pseudo-bulbs, from the sides of whioh emerge the flower-spikes, with numerous yellowi-h flowers. Native of Borneo ; t. 7605. Calochortus clai-atus. — One of the handsomest garden forms, having large deep yellow flowers. It was introduced by Mr. Cahl Purdy, and flowered in the open border at Kew in June ; t. 7606. Public Gardens and the Study of Botany. — A letter was received by the London School The Board of Agriculture has issued a series of leaflets relating to insects injurious to plants, such as the fruit-tree beetle, Scclytus ruyulosus ; the eel-worm, Tylenchut dtvastatrix ; the red-spider, Tetranychus telarius ; the Asparagus-beetle, Crioceris atparagi ; the Pea-tbrips, Thrips pisivora. Copies of these leaflets may be had free of charge, and post- free on application to tho Secretary ,'Board of Agri- culture, 4, Whitehall Place, S.W. Applications need not be stamped. "BlBLIOTHEQUE D'HORTICULTURE ET DE JARDINAQE." — Three volumes of this series (Paris : Octave Doin, et Librairie Agricole) are now before us, and may be spoken of together. All are useful Chrysanthemums.— We have received a copy of the memoirs read at tho Chrysanthemum Congress at Lyon, including one on the " Diseases and Parasites of the Chrysanthemum," by M. Chifflot ; on the " Fertilisation of the Chrysanthemum," by M. Gerard ; and on the " Best Manures aud Composts," by M. Fatoer. These papers are in the French language, and may be had of M. Octave Doin, 8, Place de l'Odeon, Paris. American Agriculture.— M. P. De Vuyst has published A Comprehensive Review of the State of Agriculture in the United States. It may be had from Octave Doin, Place de l'Odeon, Paris. Fig. 13. — view ix the gardens, east burnham park, slough, (see p. 50.) Board from the London County Council, stating that the Parks and Open Spaces Committee had considered the Board's letter of May 24 last, w'uch enclosed an extract from a report from the British Embassy at Berlin, as to the arrangements in force in that city for facilitating the study of botany, and which asked the Council whether a somewlat similar arrangement could not be made in London. The County Council informed the Board that they were taking steps in this direction by forming a series of beds ia Battersea, Itavenscouit, and Victoria Parks, with specimens of plants in their natural orders, and added that the Parks Committee thought that it would be desirable to see the result of this experiment before proceeding any further for the present. We commend to the Boards concerned the perusal of tho article on town botanic gardens in our last issue. handbooks, illustrated and well arranged. M. Julfs Rudolph is the author of the treatise devoted to Caladium, Anthurium, Alocasia, et aulres AroirUcs de Scrre ; MM. G. Boucher and S. Motfet write on Leu Climatites, Chevtefe utiles (Honeysuckles), Birjnones, Glycines, Aristoloches, and Passijlores ; and M. Alb. Larbat^trier publishes his Essais Fratiyues de Chimie Uorticole. The Florida Velvet Bean.— We had occasion to refer to this in a preceding number. We now have to make mention of an article with an illustra- tion in the Queensland Agricultural Journal for May last. The plant is named as Mucuna pruriens var. utilis, and it is thought it may prove a valuable fodder plant in warm climates, and useful for green manuring. Botanical Nomenclature.— Our botanical works are pr.iying for some new Adam to arrive who will give names to flowers that everyone will recog- nise. In regard to the scientific names, they thought they hadit "down fine"when, iuthetime of L1NN.EU8, they established a set of canons which every orthodox botanist, it was supposed, would obey. After a century of trial, it was found the lass agreed upon had not been observed. There has become a revolt, aud a sort of go-as-you-please practice is prevailing. One author issues a book with one set of names, another a book with a different set of names for the same plants. One man's herbarium is arranged under the names adopted by one shining light ; when the othei' starts to examine his friend's collection, he finds it "all Greek "to him. In a spirit of desperation some of the leading botanical publications'are giving 52 THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. [July 16, 1898. prominence to what they term common names ; but before the text has been hardly published, the common name is found to be uncommonly uncommon. Few know what the others are talking about. Babel rules, and a second Adam is prayed for. New York Independent, June 25. Flower and Fruit-farming in England. — Mr. W. K. Bear contributes to the Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society of England an elaborate article on the culture of flowers for market, giving special prominence to the Narcissus culture in the Scilly Islands. A great deal of similar information to that here given has been published at intervals in our columns, but those interested will be thankful to have the information in a separate form. Here is an extract which Bhould be noted by our statesmen : — "The freight per cwt. from St. Mary's to London, 350 miles, is 8s., while 6s. to 7s. is charged for con- veyance of similar goods from the South of France, 700 to 800 miles. From the Channel Isles the charge is 4s. per cwt. Cyclamen latifolium in North Africa.— Professor Wbight, in the last number of the Notts from the Botanical School of Trinity College, Dublin, mentions the di6covery,in 1S95, on a hill called Djebel Bon Kournein, of C. latifolium, Sibthorp. It appears that C. punicum of Pornel is a sjnonym referred to the same species. Messrs. Bonnet and Barratte, in their Catalogue Raisonnt des Plantes Vasculaires de la Tunisie (1896), allude to the presence of the plant in other localities near Tunis. Professor Wright adopts the generic spelling Cvclaminus, and the specific name Persica. The Kew Index has Cyclamen latifolium, and this is the name that ia most con- venient for gardeners to follow. Professor Foster.— An excellent portrait of this eminent gardener and distinguished man of science is given in the Garden for July 2. Wheat Prospects in the United States. — It will be interesting at this period to note that, according to latest reports, the average condition of spring Wheat is the almost, if not entirely unpre- cedented one of 100-9, as compared with 89'6 on June 1, 1897, and a June average of 92'5 for the past ten years of the twenty-four States reporting on the condition of spring Wheat. Six report a full normal crop, and eleven a condition indicating from one t j fourteen per cent, above the normal. As to winter Wheat the average condition is 90 8, as compared with 78'5 at the corresponding date last year, and 81'6 — the average for the last ten years. A NEW CARNATION. — The excellent white- flowering Carnation mentioned by our correspondent on p. 36 of our laet issue, in his report of the meeting of the Scottish Horticultural Association, as "Neth- ridge," is to be known as Mrs. W. Buckler Lethbridge. Mr. Lethbridge, of Riverdene, Cookham, Berks, who exhibited the variety in Scotland, was awarded a First-class Certificate by the above-named Society. Redhill, Reigate and District Carnation AND PlCOTEE SOCIETY.— We are requested by the Hon. Secretary of the above to state that, owing to the postponement of the National Carnation Society's show, this show is also postponed to the 29th inst. The tickets already sent out hold good for that date. Celluloid Labels.— Mr. Douglas Allport, 108, Queen Victoria Street, E.C., sends us samples of a label which is neat and serviceable. " It is practically as permanent and as dirt-proof as porce- lain. It is much handier to fix, and has the great advantage of always remaining in a readable position.'' We commend them to the notice of amateurs for their neatness. It is an well to remind them that they are very inflammable. Apply a match to them, and they are consumed almost immediately, and so perfectly that little or no ash remains. The labels can be attached to a Btick or to the plant itself. STOCK-TAKING: JUNE.— Consideiing how very much the Spanish-American war interferes with trade all round— and with that of this country in par- ticular— the Trade Returns for the past month are not so unsatisfactory as might have been expected. The enhanced value of bread-stuffs keeps up the value of importB ; exports of machinery and mill- work have gone up in value and quantity, showing, or serving to Bhow how much the engineers' strike of last year meant to the people of this country ; but it will be a long time before increased output will have recouped us for our losses of last year. The value of the imports in June was £39,032,305— in June of 1897 it was £36,321,809, showing an increase of £2.710,496— the increased value of food being £2,317,109 ; dutiable articles fell away by £29,123. Apart from the tabular record, the other items show- ing an increase are metals, £113,401 ; chemicals, &c, £77,881 ; oils, £115,047 ; and manufactured articles, £579,386. The "summary" table yie'ds tve following additional (and usual) information : — Imports. 1897. 1898. Difference. £ £ £ Total value 36,321,809 39,032,305 4 2,710,496 (A.) Articles of food and drink — duty free 12,879,583 15,196,692 +2,317,109 (B.) Articles of food and drink— dutiable 1,754,745 1,725,622. —29,123 Raw materials for textile manufac- tured 4,498,012 4,889,464 + 391,452 Raw materials for sundry industries and manufactures 5,025,197 4,487,625 -537,57) (A.) Miscellaneous articles 1,044,379 976,990 —67,389 (B.) Parcel Post .. 49,998 127,484 +77,486 While the value of bacon from America and Canada was increased by £137,000, lard and beef went up £132,280 and £122,415 respectively, Coffee to the value of £83,991, Cocoa rising some £20,164; and Tea and Tobacco falling off, the former by £97,971, and the latter £86,855. The value of cotton imports went up £700,554, and Hemp (mostly from the Philippines) £126,000. Wool fell off by £403,000. The increase in the value of manufactured articles is contributed by cotton, leather, silk, and iron goods. The figures for the six months show an increase of £10,750,505 -thus, June, 1897, £225,245,246 ; June, 1898, £235,995,751. Here we make our usuil state- ment respecting the imports of fruit, roo's, and vegetables : — Imports. 1897. 1898. Difference. Fruits, raw : — ApplaB ...bush. 66,669 17,241 —49,428 Cherries ... •• »i 158,056 166,012 +7,956 Plums ... „ 14,773 9,541 -5,230 Pears 52 4 — 4S Grapes ... „ 4,469 5,018 + 549 Unenumerated ii 189.8S6 220,526 4 30,610 Onions ... „ 221,824 383,746 + 166,922 Potatos ... cwt. 1,138,938 1,533,374 +391,436 Vegetables, raw, unenu- merated ... ... value £208,171 £233,972 + £25,801 It is worth noting here that our Canadian friends purpose sending us their spare tender fruits, for which we have room ; as witness the fact that 30,000 boxes of Strawberries arrived the other day from France, which a very few hours sufficed to dispose of. This large anival of fruit had no lowering effect on the market. There is a large increase in the quantity of Potatos received from the Channel Islands. Those who may have Apples to sell will reap a well-de- served and unusual profit. Our Americin reports are to the effect that the prospects for Peaches are very fine indeed, and the same may be said for those of the Apple crop in many of the States. Turn we now to the Exports, under which heading we find an increase amount- ing to £323,699— obtained thus :— June, 1897, £19,089,997 ; June, 1898, £19,413,696. After a series of deficits, it is gratifying to make this record. The chief improvement is found in machinery and millwork, also in steam-engines and agricultural and textile machinery sent to various parts of the globe. As might be expected, the exports of mining machinery have not improved much. By the way, coal fell by 165,000 tons, but the value increased by £31,239. Weexported beer and spirits about £48, 000 in exceEs of the amount for June, 1897 ; and th"» value of manures went up £51,000. Bicycles fell away by some £42,354. Cotton goods, mainly to the Far East, went up £291,272 ; but woollen and worsted goods gave way £361,774. Our Irish manu- facturing friends have once more a deficit to meet — linen manufactures having fallen off by £213,997. The buyers in America have decreased their demands to the amount recorded here. We have only to note in conclusion that the exports for the six months show a reduction of £1,902,273. The Newcastle Show.— The Royal Horti- cultural Society, who in 1896 visited by deputation the York Floral Fete and the Chester Floral Fete, and last year the Shrewsbury Show of the Shropshire Horticultural Society, have this year selected one provincial centre only to thus officially visit, namely, Newcastle. It is t > be hoped that the active pitro- nage thus extended to the exhibition of the Durham, Northumberland, and Newcastle Botanical and Horti- cultural Society, will have the effect of contributing to the removal of the slight financial embarrassment from which it has suffered several years. This would be the more gratifying, because the Society has been so long established, its incorporation having taken place in 1824. Since that time it has done much to encourage horticultural pursuits, and now deserves the support it needs to strengthen it for future work. Many a fine exhibition has been held at Newcastle under its auspices, and we trust that better ones have still to be held. Royal Scottish Arboricultural Society. — The following letter has been forwarded to the Right Honourable W. H. Long, M.P., President of the Board of Agriculture, &c. : — " On October 23, 1895, you were good enough to receive a Deputation from the Royal Scottish Arboricultural Society, which submitted to you the views of the Society on certain matters connected with forestry in Scotland ; amongst them was the desirability of acquiring a State forest-area for experi- mental and educational purposes. In compliance with the wishes you expressed on that occa- sion, the President of the Society forwarded, in November, 1S9S memoranda by certain members of the council, which set forth their individual opinions as to what the necessary expenditure by the State might be, in connection with the proposed forest area. But the whole question has recently been fully considered by Ihe eoc:ety, whose views arc embo- died in the printed note which we are now authorised to submit for your favourable consideration. In this note you will find quoted the opinions of dis- tinguished foreign experts that the sylvi-uiltural practices prevailing in Scotland are open to adverse criticism. It is explained how these practices arose, and why it is now a matter of great importance that reforms should be intro- duced ; and it is shown to be impossible to hope for such reforms unless practical demonstration can be affoi ded, by means of model forests, of the results which improved methods lead to. After a brief statement as to the nature of the instructions given in the State Forest Schools of other countries, and as to the provision of practical training-grounds as necessary adjuncts of such schools, the opinion is expressed that exist- ing circumstances hardly appear to warrant the immediate foundation of an independent school in Scotland, and that the only plan now feasible is to improve and develop 'he courses of instruction in forestry now conducted in Edin- burgh, by the provision of a State forest within easy access from the city ; such a forest, whilo serving as a model for landed proprietors, agents, and factors, throughout the country, and as a station of experiment and research, would also be available for practical training in connection with these courses. It is estimated that a capital expenditure of £40,000, with an anuual grant of £50", would suffice to provide the required area ; and the concluding section of the note shows why privately-owned forests would not answer the object in view, and why tho Society is therefore compelled to ask the Government to aid it in these its first efforts towards the improvement of Forestry in this country, by providing a Stato model forest in connection with the Forest School in Edinburgh. (Signed! Fred. Bailey, President. R. C Mcnro Ferguson, Hon. S c. K. Galloway, Sec." CISSU8 DI8COLOR, though a common and hand- some trailer in our hot-houses, does not frequently produce fruits. Mr. Geo. Cbagg, of Percy Lodge July 16, 1898.] THE GARDENERS' CHRONICLE. 53 Gardens, Winchmore Hill, sends us a shoot carrying one fruit, and he has some others. The fruit is a black berry, about the size and shape of a Bmall Pea. VINCA MINOR. The fruiting of this species is so unooaaniou that we have deemed it of interest to illustrate (fig. 11) soaae small pods formed on a plant growing in a pot on a balcony, where its trailing branches are very elegant. The fruit cousists of a double follicle, as is common in the Order. Only one seed is formed, though there aie remnants of others. The plant in question was dug up at Guisnes, near C dais, several years ago, and has been grown success- fully in a pot ever Bince, forming a most elegant plant for a hanging-basket or similar purpose. A year or two ago the plant also fruited, but the fruit was destroyed by an energetic housemaid. The flower is probably insect-fertilised, but we do not know what insect has eSVoted the operation ; ono would deem it rare from the rarity with which the pods are formed. STRAWBERRIES AT MAIDSTONE IN 1898. An expert called on U3 last week, and we had a "tasting" of Strawberries. They are grown by us in the open fields for the sake of securing plants ; but a certain portion we allow to bear fruit for trial and comparison, and the notes we have made may be of interest to your readers. In our district the Straw- berry came into flower early, and those beds which are on land that faces the east were much cut by the late May frosts, and those that occurred early in June. So much so, that many came ' ' bull-nosed " (pinched at the ends), while the " king" or first flowers of others were cu1, thus greatly retarding the crop, the low night temperatures, ofcen down to 40° and 16°, helping to the same end. We were enable 1 to gather the first fruits on June 21, and as the plants of Laxton's No. 1 were c it, Royal Sovereign was the first. It grew in a bed that faced west, situated under a hedge, and very fine fruit, too. We fear many other kind* suffered from the cold besides No. 1, for some which ha.™ never failed before were at the tasting not so gaod a? usual. It may be interesting to your readers to know that, when planting new beds, we dress the land only with horse and cow-manure the first year, an I from these plants we obtain our runners and poi-plants. The 2-yr.-old plants had a dressing before the final spring-hoeing of icbthemic guano, soot, basic-slaj, and kainit, and although these dressings have assisted the 2-yr. plants to bear fruit at their be3t (we do not fruit the 1-yr. plants), we fail to see that one dressing was better than another — a very slight difference was observable in the foliage, but so far as quantity, quality of the fruit, and continuity of bearing are concerned, no difference can be observed, though all have been beneficial. Gar- 1'eners, therefore, might use any of those named with advantage which are obtainable locally, for seldom have all kinds been better with us — to generalise. The following varieties have done as well as usual, and are therefore trustworthy : — Royal Sovereign, which has borne thrice as heavy a crop as any other variety, and all the fruits have been large, even in shape, and of excellent flavour. If we had only this one variety, we should not do badly ; but Vicooatesse H. de Thury, Sir Joseph Paxton, President, Auguste Nicaise, Kitley's Goliath, Countes3, Auguste Boisselot, King of the Earlies, Sir Charles Napier, and Trol- lope's Victoria mainta'n their good character, and may be described ss trustworthy varieties. Among the less known varieties, Laxton's Leader takes a high position so far as crop is concerned, but in our opinion (and the expert agrees), the fruit is ugly, furrowed, and pinched; but although enormous in size, flavour is lacking. Laxton's Monarch is very liable to go blind, as some 20 per cent, of our plants never produced a truss of bloom, although they were vigorous and hea'tby, and the fiuit has a very fins appearance, bright, shining, and very excellent for market purposes, but the good flavour necessary in a garden fruit is lacking, while blindness is a serious drawback. We noted at Chiswick that about 80 per cent, were blind. It would be interesting to hear the experience of others, as no fruit is more influenced by soil and situation than the Strawberry. We specially tested for flavour, and finally gave the palm to Dr. Hogg as the best, and Countess ran it a close second. Other grandly- flavoured kinds were La France, Edward Lefort, Laxton's King of Earlies, St. Joseph, President, Kitley's Goliath, Trollope's Victoria, Auguste Boisselot, and Vicom- te=se ; and among the leBS-known kinds, the white perpetual kind, Louis Gauthier, held a high position, although at the end of our tasting the export Baid, " Well, although I have eaten such a variety, I find that four of Gauthier have disappeared with gra'i- fication ! " Wo have no doubt this pinky-white kind will be largely planted. It is a splendid bearer now, and as it gives another set of fruit in the autumn, it must take a prominent place. Being a free grower, it requireB plenty of room ; fruits, sometimes measuring 2 inches acros?, are plentiful ; it resembles Laxton's White Knight, but fruits freely. Another coming sort is the new perpetual hybrid, St. Joseph ; this has a fruit like a small Vicomtesse, but possesses a remarkably distinct Hautbois flavour, aid will take a prominent position among alpine or autumnal varieties. Veitch's Perfection, which has distinct and delicious: flavour, has not sufficiently established itself to enable us to decide as to its character, but doubtless it will prove an acquisition as a late fruiter. Wonderful, ^ Fig. 14.— seed vessel of vinca minor. certificated at Chiswick, is very fine, and a great cropper. Grosse Lombarde is a very long-pointed fruit, with a very sharp acid flavour, but so far no advance ; Konig Albert is a fine round fruit, lipening thoroughly, and of distinct and pleasing flavour — gooi for mid-season supply; Edouard Lefort, is a distinct advance on Grosse Sucree, of the same cha- racter, but a better grower and bearer (A.M., R H.S ) ; Souvenir de Bossuet, as recommended, is so mixed that we cannot remark on it, the majority consisting of the old discarded Competitor ; New Dumbarton Castle is a close compact grower, and gives large fine- flavoured excellent fruit, evidently a good dry season variety ; Walbuff, which is a continental variety, has grand foliage, is rather late, but very prolific ; Presi- dent Carnot of 1897, proves to be La France, which came to us in 1895, and is well worthy of the award given by the Royal Horticultural Society — it is a vigorous grower, and a standard variety. Mr. Car- michael has sent out several late kinds, mostly crosses from Waterloo ; but we fail to find superior merit in Prince of WaleB and Princess of WaleB (1895-96). His other varieties are not jet in condition, and we will report later ; they all show Waterloo blood, and Eeem to be good bearers. George Rundle has proved worthless. We will make a few notes of the later varieties. It is among these that we may hope for improvement. At present Waterloo, Eleanor, and Elton Pine are the best. A few kinds have not proved good this year, namely, Gunton Park, Lord Suffield, UnBer Fritz, Georges Lesuir, a'ld Filbert Pine, but generally the latter three are extra fine, but the Gunton Park soedlings have only ones in five years been good, so that for our district we cannot recommend them, though elsewhere they succeed. Countess, however, is grand, and cannot be too highly recommended ; it is a small grower, and we think that to plant 1 foot by 2 feet would answer best, as the land, if the rows are wider planted, gets so dried up that the fruit does not develop. The habit of the different kinds is interesting : we pulled one truss of the old (Grovend) "Scarlet" (the jam-maker's favourite) with twenty fully ripe fruits ; while, to look at Auguste Nicaise, one fails to see fruit uutil the leaves are put on one side, when the largeness of the crop of fruit is a surprise — this variety is Al for forciDg, but as an out-of-doors variety it is best in a dry year, when its ample foliage screens the crop. Laxton's Sensation and Stevens' Wonder are quite discarded for want of flavour, while the old Black Prince is yet of tho beBt quality, and cannot yet be discarded. Empressof Indiaisdiscardedasbeingtoo small a cropper ; and Frogmore Late Pine can only be grown with success in certain spots, such as a rich border on a northern aspect. British Queen must still be grown, and it is a grand fruit in heavy soils, and where a big crop is not looked for. Noble must now be discarded, although as a preserving fruit it is worth a place, as the jam made from it is very high in colour. Taking the season so far, we can credit 1898 with three good novelties — Louis Gauthier, Veitch's Per- fection, and St. Joseph ; possibly the later ones may yet give us varieties worth noting. It is our custom to destroy all beds that are two years old, but then we grow chiefly for plants. A few may^stand three year*, for affording fruit for jam-making ; but where grand fruit is desired, two years should be the limit of age. George Bunyard